What you need to do to get a Texas driver's license

To get a Texas driver's license, you visit your local Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, pass a written knowledge test and a driving test, and provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. The whole process takes about 45 minutes to an hour at the office, though you can study for the written test beforehand using free materials on the DPS website. You must be at least 16 years old (or 15 if you completed a driver education course), pass a vision screening, and pay a fee that varies based on how long you want the license to last.

Most people get their license on the first visit if they bring the right documents and pass both tests. If you fail the driving test, you can return to retake it. If you fail the written test, you can usually take it again the same day or come back another time.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DPS office in person with proof of identity, residency, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
  • The written test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs; the DPS provides free study materials online and at DPS offices.
  • You must pass a vision screening and a driving test with an examiner in a DPS vehicle or your own car.
  • License fees depend on the validity period you choose: a five-year license costs less than an eight-year license.
  • If you are under 18, you must have completed a driver education course or hold a learner permit for a set period before taking the driving test.

Documents you must bring to the DPS office

Bring one document that proves your identity and one that proves where you live. For identity, the DPS accepts a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, a consular report of birth abroad, or a permanent resident card. If you do not have any of these, you can use a combination of documents like a Social Security card plus a school transcript or utility bill.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, or a government document with your current address. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days. If you live with someone else and do not have a bill in your name, a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the bill, plus a copy of that bill, will work.

You also need to provide your Social Security number. If you do not have one, you can provide an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring the card or a document showing the number. The DPS will verify your number with the Social Security Administration, so make sure it is correct.

Passing the written knowledge test

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 the DPS provides a free study guide called the Texas Driver Handbook on its website. You can also pick up a printed copy at any DPS office.

The test covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, seat belt laws, and what different road signs mean. Most questions are straightforward if you study the handbook. You have 30 minutes to complete the test. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at most offices, though you may have to pay the test fee again.

Passing the driving test

The driving test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. A DPS examiner will watch you perform basic driving tasks like starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and backing up. The examiner will also ask you to demonstrate that you understand traffic signs and can follow directions. You can use your own vehicle or, at some offices, a DPS vehicle. If you use your own car, it must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition.

Before the test, the examiner will check that your vehicle's lights, wipers, horn, and brakes work. You must pass a vision screening (usually 20/40 or better with or without glasses) before you can take the driving test. If you wear glasses or contacts to drive, you must wear them during the test. If you fail the driving test, you can retake it, though there may be a waiting period and an additional fee.

Age requirements and restrictions for drivers under 18

You must be at least 16 years old to get a Texas driver's license. If you are 16 or 17, you have two paths: complete a driver education course (classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction) or hold a learner permit for a set period before taking the driving test.

If you completed a driver education course, you can take the driving test right away. If you did not, you must first get a learner permit by passing the written test. With a learner permit, you can only drive with a licensed adult 21 or older in the front seat. You must hold the permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test for a full license.

Once you turn 18, these restrictions no longer explore. You can take the written and driving tests without a learner permit or driver education course, though you still need to pass both tests and bring the required documents.

License fees and validity periods

Texas driver's licenses are not free. The fee depends on how long you want the license to be valid. A five-year license costs less than an eight-year license. Fees also vary slightly if you are under 18 or over 85, or if you have a commercial driver's license. The DPS website lists current fees, and you can pay by cash, check, or card at the office.

Your license will show an expiration date. You can renew it before it expires by mail, online, or in person, depending on your situation. If your license expires, you cannot legally drive until you renew it.

What to do if you fail the driving test

If you do not pass the driving test, the examiner will tell you what you did wrong. You can retake the test, but there is usually a waiting period (often a few days to a week) and you may have to pay the test fee again. Some offices let you retake the test the next day; others require you to wait longer. Call your local DPS office to find out their policy.

Before you retake the test, practice the skills the examiner said you need to work on. Many people pass on their second or third attempt. If you are struggling, consider taking additional driving lessons with a professional instructor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Texas driver's license if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. You can get a standard driver's license if you have a valid visa or are a permanent resident. If you are in Texas without legal immigration status, you cannot get a standard license, but you may be able to get a driving privilege document that lets you drive legally in Texas. Contact your local DPS office for details about what documents you need.

Do I have to take the written test if I have a valid driver's license from another state?

No. If you move to Texas and already have a valid driver's license from another state, you can exchange it for a Texas license without taking the written or driving test. You still need to visit a DPS office, bring proof of identity and residency, and pay the fee. Your new Texas license will have a new expiration date.

What happens if I fail the written test?

You can retake the written test at most offices the same day, though you may have to pay the test fee again. If you fail multiple times, take more time to study the Texas Driver Handbook before trying again. The handbook covers everything on the test.

How long does it take to get my license after I pass the tests?

You usually get your license the same day you pass both tests. The DPS will take your photo and print your license at the office. You will leave with your license in hand or receive it by mail within a few days, depending on the office.

Can I renew my Texas driver's license online?

It depends on your situation. If your license is not expired and you have not had any address changes or other major updates, you can renew online through the DPS website. If your license is expired or you need to update information, you may have to renew in person or by mail. Check the DPS website to see which option works for you.