Guide to the Galveston DMV (DPS) Office: Location, Hours & Appointments

Visiting the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) can be a stressful experience if you aren’t prepared. Unlike the massive “Mega Centers” in Houston, the Galveston DPS office at 6812 Broadway operates a bit differently. Whether you need to renew your driver’s license, take a road test, or get a new ID, knowing the specific rules for this location can save you hours of waiting. This guide covers everything you need to know about the Galveston DPS office, including the best times to book an appointment, parking tips, and the critical documents you cannot forget.

Galveston DPS Office Location & Contact Info

The Galveston office is located on the island, making it a convenient option for residents who want to avoid the drive to Texas City or Angleton.

• Official Address: 6812 Broadway St, Galveston, TX 77544

• Location Context: The office is situated in a commercial strip building on the north side of Broadway (Highway 87), just west of 61st Street.

  • Note: It is not located at the downtown county courthouse.

• Phone Number: (409) 744-1065

  • Pro-Tip: Local office phones are rarely answered due to high volume. For general questions, you are better off checking the Texas.gov website.

Operating Hours & Best Times to Visit

While the official hours are standard, this smaller office has a few unwritten rules regarding timing.

• Standard Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• The “Lunch Hour” Warning: Unlike larger centers that rotate staff to stay open, smaller offices like Galveston often pause services or run on a “skeleton crew” between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. It is highly recommended to avoid booking appointments or arriving during this window.

• Best Days to Visit: Mid-week days (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday) typically have shorter wait times than Mondays and Fridays.

Services Offered in Galveston

Not every DPS office offers every service. Verify that Galveston handles your specific need before you drive there.

Available Services:

• Driver License (Class C): Renewals, replacements, and address changes.

• Learner Permits: Written tests and processing for teens and adults.

• Identification (ID) Cards: New applications and renewals.

• Road Tests (Class C): Available for standard passenger vehicles (you must bring your own car).

Services NOT Available:

• CDL Skills Tests: Commercial driver road tests are generally not conducted here. You will likely need to visit the Houston Southeast Mega Center or Angleton locations.

• Walk-Ins: Like most Texas DPS locations, this office operates on an Appointment Only basis. Walk-ins are rarely accepted.

How to Schedule an Appointment (And What to Do If They Are Full)

Appointments at the Galveston office can fill up months in advance. Use these strategies to secure a slot.

1. Use the Official Portal: Always book through the Texas DPS Scheduler.

2. The “Morning Hack”: If you need an appointment urgently, log on to the scheduler between 7:00 AM and 7:45 AM. The system often releases a batch of “Same-Day” or “Next-Day” slots due to cancellations.

3. The “9:30 AM” Check: A second batch of availability is often published around 9:30 AM.

Critical Checklist: What to Bring

The number one reason people are turned away is missing documentation. Do not leave home without these items.

For All Applicants:

• Proof of Identity: Original Birth Certificate or unexpired U.S. Passport (No photocopies).

• Social Security Card: Original, signed, and not laminated.

• Proof of Residency: Two separate documents (e.g., utility bill, bank statement, insurance policy) showing your name and current physical address.

For Road Test Applicants:

• Your Own Vehicle: Must have current registration, valid insurance (paper or digital), and both front and rear license plates.

• ITD Certificate: You must watch the “Impact Texas Drivers” video online before your test.

  • Teens (15-17): Watch the Impact Texas Teen Drivers (ITTD) video.

  • Adults (18+): Watch the Impact Texas Adult Drivers (ITAD) video.

  • Note: The certificate is valid for 90 days

Online Services to Save You a Trip

Parking & Local Tips

• Parking: There is a dedicated customer parking lot at the 6812 Broadway location. It is free, so you don’t need to worry about downtown meters.

• Dress Code: If you are taking a road test, wear practical shoes (sneakers). Sandals or flip-flops can slip off the pedals and may be considered unsafe by the examiner.

Conclusion:

The Galveston DPS office is a convenient resource for island residents, but preparation is key. By booking your appointment early, avoiding the lunch hour rush, and double-checking your documents, you can get in and out with your new license in hand.