What You Need to Do to Get a Texas Driver's License
To get a driver's license in Texas, you must pass a written knowledge test, a driving test, and a vision screening at a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. You will also need to bring specific documents that prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. The entire process takes one visit if you pass both tests, though you may need to return for a second appointment if you fail the driving exam.
Texas issues driver's licenses to people age 16 and older. If you are under 18, you must first hold a learner's permit for a waiting period before you can test for a full license. The cost varies depending on your age and how long you want the license to be valid — typically between $16 and $60 for a standard license.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring an original or certified birth certificate, proof of Social Security number, and two documents showing your Texas address to any DPS office.
- The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices; you must score at least 70 percent to pass.
- The driving test includes basic vehicle control, parking, and on-road driving; a DPS examiner rides with you and scores your performance.
- If you are under 18, you must hold a learner's permit for at least 6 months and 14 days before you can take the driving test.
- You can schedule your appointment online through the DPS website or by phone, and wait times vary by location and season.
Documents You Must Bring to the DPS Office
Texas requires you to show proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency. An original or certified birth certificate is the most common form of identity proof. If you do not have a birth certificate, you can use a valid passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad.
For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you cannot produce any of these, you will need to explore for a Social Security number first through the Social Security Administration.
For residency, bring two documents that show your name and a Texas address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, an insurance policy, or a government check. The documents must be dated within the last 30 days. If you live with someone else and do not have documents in your name, you can bring a notarized affidavit from the person whose name appears on the utility bill or lease, plus a copy of that document.
The Written Knowledge Test: What to Study
The written test has 30 questions and covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 21 questions correctly to pass. The test is available in English and Spanish, and you can request a large-print version or other accommodations if you need them.
The DPS publishes a free study guide called the Texas Driver's Handbook, available on the DPS website and in print at any DPS office. The handbook covers everything on the test: speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, lane changes, pedestrian safety, and what different road signs mean. Most people spend 2 to 4 hours studying before taking the test.
You have up to five attempts to pass the written test within a 12-month period. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. Each attempt costs the same as the original test fee.
The Driving Test: What the Examiner Scores
The driving test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. A DPS examiner sits in the passenger seat and watches you perform basic driving tasks. You must demonstrate that you can start the vehicle, control steering, accelerate and brake smoothly, turn corners, change lanes, and park. The examiner also watches how you handle traffic, obey traffic signals, and respond to other vehicles and pedestrians.
You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working headlights, brake lights, turn signals, wipers, and mirrors. The examiner will check these before you drive. You cannot use a vehicle with an automatic transmission if you are testing for a manual transmission endorsement, and vice versa.
If you fail the driving test, you can retake it as soon as the next day. Most DPS offices allow you to schedule a second attempt when ready after you fail, though some offices have waiting lists. You must pay the test fee again for each attempt.
Learner's Permit Requirements for Drivers Under 18
If you are under 18, you must first obtain a learner's permit and hold it for at least 6 months and 14 days before you can take the driving test. To get a learner's permit, you pass the written test and pay a fee (usually $16 to $25). You do not take a driving test to get the permit.
While you hold a learner's permit, you must follow these restrictions: you cannot drive alone, you must have a licensed driver age 21 or older in the front passenger seat, you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot use a cell phone while driving. Violating these rules can result in fines and loss of your permit.
After you have held the permit for the required time and passed the driving test, you receive your Intermediate License (also called a Provisional License). This license has fewer restrictions than the learner's permit but more than a full license. You keep the Intermediate License until you turn 18, at which point it converts to a regular driver's license.
How to Schedule Your DPS Appointment
You can schedule an appointment online at the DPS website or by calling 1-800-558-9368. Online scheduling is faster and shows you available times at offices near you. You can also walk into any DPS office without an appointment, but wait times are often 1 to 3 hours, especially in urban areas and during peak seasons (spring and summer).
When you schedule online, you choose your office location, the type of test you need (written only, driving only, or both), and your preferred date and time. You will receive a confirmation number via email. Bring this confirmation number to your appointment, along with all required documents.
DPS offices are open Monday through Friday, and some locations have Saturday hours. Hours vary by office, so check the DPS website for your local office. If you miss your appointment, you can reschedule online or by phone without penalty.
Fees and License Validity Periods
The cost of a Texas driver's license depends on your age and the length of validity you choose. A standard license for someone age 18 to 84 costs $16 for a 4-year license or $32 for an 8-year license. Drivers age 85 and older pay $16 for a 2-year license. Drivers under 18 pay $16 for a license valid until age 18, then must renew.
The written test and driving test each have separate fees, usually $7 to $10 per attempt. If you take both tests in one visit, you pay both fees. If you fail one test and pass the other, you only pay the fee for the test you retake.
Payment methods vary by office. Most DPS offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some offices accept checks. Check the DPS website for your specific office's payment options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test and driving test on the same day?
Yes. If you pass the written test, you can take the driving test the same day at most DPS offices. You do not have to wait between tests. However, if you fail the written test, you cannot take the driving test until you pass the written test.
What happens if I fail the driving test?
You can retake the driving test as soon as the next day. You must pay the test fee again. Most DPS offices let you schedule your next attempt right after you fail, though some have waiting lists. You have up to five attempts within a 12-month period.
Do I need to bring my own vehicle for the driving test?
Yes. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition with working lights, wipers, and mirrors. You cannot use a rental car or borrow someone else's vehicle unless you have permission and proof of insurance. The vehicle must match the class of license you are testing for.
Can I renew my license online or by mail?
You can renew by mail if your license is not suspended or revoked and you meet other requirements. You can also renew online through the DPS website if you are age 18 or older and your license is not expired by more than two years. Visit the DPS website to check if you are may be able to access for online or mail renewal.
What if I move to Texas from another state?
You must get a Texas license within 30 days of establishing residency. You will need to pass the written test and the driving test, just like a new driver. Your out-of-state license does not transfer. Bring your out-of-state license along with the required identity, Social Security, and residency documents to your DPS appointment.