What You Need to Do to Get a Texas Driver's License
To get a Texas driver's license, you must visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, pass a written knowledge test and a driving skills test, and provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. Texas does not issue licenses by mail or online. The entire process typically takes one visit if you pass both tests on your first attempt, though you may need to return if you fail either test or if the office cannot verify your documents that day.
The state issues different license types based on your age and driving history. A standard Class C license is for regular passenger vehicle operation. If you are under 18, you must complete a driver education course and hold a learner permit for a waiting period before you can test for a full license. The rules and fees differ depending on whether you are a first-time applicant, renewing an expired license, or transferring from another state.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring original or certified documents proving your identity, Texas residency, and Social Security number to a DPS office; copies or digital images are not accepted.
- First-time applicants under 18 must complete a driver education course and hold a learner permit for at least 30 days before taking the driving test.
- The written knowledge test and driving skills test must both be passed during your visit; if you fail either one, you can retake it but may have to pay a retest fee.
- Standard Class C license fees are $33 for a four-year license or $66 for an eight-year license; fees vary for other license types and ages.
- Processing times vary by DPS office location; some offices have wait times of several weeks, so scheduling an appointment online or by phone is strongly recommended.
Documents You Must Bring to the DPS Office
Texas requires you to bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies, faxes, and digital images are not accepted. You need one document proving your identity, one or more documents proving your Texas residency, and proof of your Social Security number.
For proof of identity, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, consular report of birth abroad, or certificate of naturalization. A state ID card or expired driver's license from any state also works. If your name has changed due to marriage or court order, bring the original or certified copy of the marriage certificate or court order along with your identity document.
For proof of Texas residency, bring one or more documents dated within the last 30 days showing your current address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, insurance policy, bank statement, or government mail. A piece of mail from a school, employer, or government agency also counts. If you live with someone else, you can bring a notarized letter from the homeowner or leaseholder plus one of the documents listed above.
For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, 1099 form, or a document issued by the Social Security Administration. A birth certificate with your Social Security number printed on it also works.
The Written Knowledge Test and What It Covers
The written test has 30 multiple-choice 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 large-print and audio versions are available upon request.
The test covers road signs and their meanings, right-of-way rules, speed limits and when they explore, parking rules, what to do at traffic lights and stop signs, how to handle emergency vehicles, seat belt and child safety seat laws, and impaired driving laws. You can study using the official Texas Driver's Handbook, which is free and available on the DPS website and at every DPS office. Many people also use online practice tests to prepare.
If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or on a later visit. Each retake may have an additional fee; check with your local DPS office for the current retest fee amount.
The Driving Skills Test: What the Examiner Will Check
The driving test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. The examiner will ask you to perform basic vehicle operations and maneuvers, such as starting the vehicle, turning, backing up, parking, and stopping. You must demonstrate that you can control the vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. The examiner will also check that your vehicle meets safety requirements — working brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and horn.
You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle does not have to be registered in your name, but the person whose name is on the registration must be present during the test. Bring proof of insurance and the vehicle's registration card.
Common reasons people fail the driving test include failing to come to a complete stop, improper lane changes, hitting the curb while parking, speeding, and not checking mirrors or blind spots. If you fail, you can retake the test on a later visit. There is usually a retest fee.
Age-Specific Rules for Drivers Under 18
If you are under 18, you cannot go directly to the written and driving tests. You must first complete a driver education course approved by the Texas Education Agency. This course covers classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. Many high schools offer driver education, and private driving schools also provide the course. The course typically takes several weeks to complete.
After finishing driver education, you receive a certificate of completion. Bring this certificate to the DPS office when you explore for your learner permit. The learner permit allows you to practice driving with a licensed adult at least 21 years old in the front passenger seat. You must hold the learner permit for at least 30 days before you can take the driving test for a full license.
Once you have held the learner permit for 30 days and are at least 16 years old, you can schedule your driving test. After you pass, you receive a Class C license with restrictions if you are under 18. These restrictions limit when you can drive (no driving between midnight and 5 a.m. without a parent or guardian) and who can ride with you (no more than one passenger under 21 unless a parent is present). The restrictions end when you turn 18.
Transferring a License from Another State
If you hold a valid driver's license from another state and you are moving to Texas, you do not have to retake the written and driving tests. Instead, you can exchange your out-of-state license for a Texas license by visiting a DPS office with your out-of-state license, proof of identity, proof of Texas residency, and proof of Social Security number.
You will still have to pass a vision screening and a written test on Texas traffic laws. The Texas-specific test is shorter than the full knowledge test — it covers only Texas laws that differ from other states. If you fail the Texas test, you must retake the full 30-question knowledge test on a later visit.
Your out-of-state license will be surrendered when you receive your Texas license. The fee for a license exchange is the same as for a new license. Processing time is usually the same day if all documents are in order.
Fees, Processing Times, and How to Schedule Your Visit
A standard Class C driver's license costs $33 for a four-year license or $66 for an eight-year license. If you are under 18, the license is valid only until your 18th birthday, and the fee is $16. Fees for other license types — such as commercial licenses or motorcycle endorsements — are higher. The DPS office accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card.
Processing times vary widely by location. Some DPS offices can issue your license the same day you pass the tests. Others have backlogs and may take several weeks to mail your license to you. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that is valid for 45 days while you wait for your permanent card.
To find your nearest DPS office and check current wait times, visit the Texas DPS website and use the office locator tool. Many offices allow you to schedule an appointment online or by phone. Scheduling an appointment does not may provide you will be seen at that exact time, but it usually reduces your wait. Walk-ins are accepted at all offices, but you may wait several hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Texas driver's license if I do not have a Social Security number?
No. Texas law requires proof of a Social Security number to issue a driver's license. If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have a Social Security number, you cannot get a standard Class C license. You may be able to get an identification card instead, which does not require a Social Security number. Contact your local DPS office to learn about alternatives.
What happens if I fail the written test or driving test?
You can retake the test you failed on a later visit. There is usually a retest fee, which varies by office. You do not have to retake the test you passed. Some people retake the same test the same day; others schedule another appointment for a later date.
How long does it take to get my license card in the mail?
The DPS issues a temporary paper license valid for 45 days on the day you pass your tests. Your permanent license card is mailed to your address on file. Mailing times vary, but most people receive their card within two to four weeks. If you do not receive it within 45 days, contact the DPS office where you applied.
Do I need to take the tests again if I renew my license?
No. When you renew an expired Texas license, you do not retake the written or driving tests. You only need to provide proof of identity and residency, pass a vision screening, and pay the renewal fee. Renewals can often be done by mail or online if your license has not been suspended or revoked.
What if my documents have my old name on them?
Bring the original or certified copy of the document showing your name change — such as a marriage certificate or court order — along with your identity document. The DPS office will update your name in the system and issue a license with your current legal name.