CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The Department of Public Safety warns that lines to get a driver’s license can get long at the beginning of a new year.
Between people renewing their license, and people getting their "Real ID," lines are expected.
During the post-holiday rush that wait can be longer than anticipated.
“Normally because the (office) closed leading up to New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, so of course, by the time the office is opened up again as it is today, you are going to have a lot more people coming in,” said Texas Department of Public Safety Sergeant Nathan Brandley.
The DPS suggests people can often avoid long waits and still get what they need by going online.
“There is a kiosk here at the DL office where you can come in and get in line prior to getting online." Brandley said. "If you are home or on a smart phone somewhere, and you want to get in line before you even get here, you can go online to the driver's license website and actually get an appointment time, and it will alert you when it is getting closer to your time. And it will ask you if you need extra time, and if you do, you can add that on to your appointment time."
Another reason there is a delay is that starting Oct. 1, anyone 18 or older will need a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or ID card to fly in the U.S.
“The REAL ID act and getting that star, of course, on the driver's license or the new driver's license is another one of those things that Texas residents are still trying to get taken care of here,” said Brandley.
If you have renewed your license or ID, you will see a gold star on the ID which means you are in compliance.
And If you don’t have a gold star on your ID, you will need to visit the Texas DPS website to see what documents you will need to provide when renewing your ID or driver’s license.
For tips on how to renew your driver’s license or identification card online visit this website.
