Texas DPS Faces Staffing Shortage, Long Driver License Wait Times

The most urgent issue facing the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) new chief, Col. Freeman Martin, pointed out staffing shortages. The problem is compromising driver licensing operations as well as law enforcement services, which causes wait periods in some metropolitan regions to last more than ninety days.

Martin stated in a video this week: "We have not kept up with the expansion and population in Texas." The DPS is seeking money for 500 extra commissioned officers and 1,525 non-commissioned positions—including 833 roles especially for driver license services—to handle these issues.

In its Legislative Allocations Request for the next biennium, the agency has also sought $207.7 million for staffing enhancements and $21 million for technological upgrades.

Although rural locations show reasonable wait times, major hubs like Austin and San Antonio suffer extreme waits. For those like Kevin Gray, who has been without an ID for months, the situation is aggravating. Gray tried to schedule appointments in Austin and San Antonio after misplacing his wallet but was advised he would have to wait four months. He finally went to Seguin but was denied away and instructed to book online.

Gray remarked, "I think Texans deserve better."

Martin underlined the need of enhanced customer service, including better staffing at contact centers to answer questions concerning licencing and identification services.

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