What you need to do to get your first Texas driver's license
To get your first Texas driver's license, you must pass a written knowledge test, a driving test, and a vision screening. You'll also need to bring specific documents to prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. The whole process takes place at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office and costs $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license.
You can't skip the written test by taking a driver education course, but completing one can lower your insurance costs and, if you're under 18, reduce the waiting period before you can take the driving test. Most people complete the written test and vision screening on the same day, then schedule the driving test for a later appointment.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring an original or certified birth certificate, proof of Texas residency (like a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security card or a document showing your number to any DPS office.
- The written knowledge test covers traffic laws and safe driving; you need to pass with a score of at least 70 percent.
- The driving test happens in your own vehicle or a DPS-provided one, and you must bring proof of vehicle insurance before you take it.
- If you're under 18, you must hold a learner permit for at least 30 days (or 14 days if you completed a driver education course) before you can take the driving test.
- You can schedule your driving test online through the DPS website or by calling your local DPS office.
Documents you must bring to the DPS office
Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate. A photocopy is not enough. If your birth certificate is from outside the United States, bring the original plus an official English translation.
Bring one document that proves you live in Texas. Acceptable documents include a current utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill with your name and a Texas address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A driver's license from another state does not count as proof of residency.
Bring your Social Security card, or bring a document that shows your Social Security number, such as a W-2 form or tax return. If you don't have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one.
Bring a valid photo ID if you have one—a passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license all work. If you don't have a photo ID, the DPS office will take your photograph during your visit.
The written knowledge test and vision screening
The written test has 30 questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 21 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and Spanish, and you can request a reader or interpreter if you need one.
You can study for the test using the Texas Driver's Handbook, which is free on the DPS website. Many people also use practice tests available online through the DPS or third-party websites. The handbook covers everything on the test, so reading it thoroughly is the most reliable way to prepare.
During the same visit, you'll take a vision screening. The DPS checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision screening, you'll be referred to an eye doctor; you can't get a license until an eye doctor clears you.
Getting a learner permit if you're under 18
If you're under 18, you must get a learner permit before you can take the driving test. A learner permit allows you to practice driving with a licensed adult in the car. You get a learner permit by passing the written test and vision screening—the same tests required for a full license.
After you pass the written test, you must wait at least 30 days before you can take the driving test. If you completed a driver education course (classroom or online), you can take the driving test after only 14 days. During this waiting period, you can practice driving with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old and sitting in the front passenger seat.
Your learner permit is valid for two years. If you don't pass the driving test before it expires, you'll need to retake the written test and get a new permit.
Scheduling and taking the driving test
You can schedule your driving test online at the DPS website or by calling your local DPS office. Many offices have long wait times, so schedule as soon as you're may be able to access. Some offices book appointments weeks in advance.
For the driving test, you can use your own vehicle or ask the DPS to provide one. If you use your own vehicle, it must be registered in Texas, have valid liability insurance, and be in safe working condition. Bring proof of insurance—your insurance card or a printed copy from your insurance company's website.
The test takes about 30 minutes. The examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks like parking, turning, and stopping. You must follow traffic laws and demonstrate safe driving habits. If you fail, you can retake the test, but you'll have to pay the fee again and schedule another appointment.
What happens after you pass the driving test
After you pass the driving test, you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 45 days while the DPS produces your plastic card. Your plastic license will arrive in the mail within two to three weeks.
Your first Texas driver's license is valid for four years if you're under 18, or four or eight years if you're 18 or older (you choose the length when you explore). When your license expires, you can renew it online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office.
Driver education courses and insurance discounts
Taking a driver education course is not required, but it offers real benefits. If you're under 18, a course shortens the waiting period between your learner permit and driving test from 30 days to 14 days. Many insurance companies also offer discounts—typically 10 percent—if you complete an approved course.
Driver education courses are offered in person at high schools and private driving schools, and online through approved providers. An in-person course usually takes four to six weeks; an online course can be completed faster. The cost varies but typically ranges from $200 to $500 for an in-person course and $100 to $300 for an online course.
If you take a course, bring your completion certificate to the DPS office when you explore for your learner permit. The DPS will note it in your file, which shortens your waiting period automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the driving test in a vehicle with an automatic transmission if I learned to drive a manual?
Yes. Your license will not have any restriction. However, if you take the driving test in an automatic and later want to drive a manual, you can do so—there's no separate restriction for manual transmissions in Texas.
What if I fail the driving test?
You can retake it. You'll need to pay the test fee again and schedule another appointment. There's no limit to how many times you can retake the test, but you must still hold a valid learner permit.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I bring something else?
You can bring your Social Security card or any document showing your number, such as a W-2, tax return, or bank statement. The DPS just needs to verify your number; the document itself doesn't have to be official.
How long does the whole process take from start to finish?
If you're 18 or older, you can complete the written test and driving test within a few weeks, depending on how quickly you can schedule appointments. If you're under 18, you must wait at least 14 to 30 days between the written test and driving test, so the process takes at least four to six weeks.
What if my birth certificate is from another country?
Bring the original plus an official English translation. Both documents must be presented together. If you don't have an official translation, you can hire a certified translator, or some DPS offices can refer you to one.