What You Need to Do to Get a Texas Driver License

To get a Texas driver license, you must visit a Texas 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 entire process takes between one and three hours on the day of your appointment, though you may need to schedule that appointment weeks in advance depending on your location. Texas does not allow you to complete the process online or by mail — every applicant must appear at a DPS office.

The order matters: you gather documents first, schedule an appointment, take the written test, then take the driving test. If you fail either test, you can retake it, but you will pay the fee again. Most people complete the process in one visit, but some need to return for a second appointment if the office is busy or if they fail a test.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DPS office in person with original documents proving your identity, Texas residency, and Social Security number before you can take any test.
  • The written knowledge test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving; you must score at least 70 percent to pass.
  • The driving test is conducted by a DPS examiner in your own vehicle or a DPS vehicle, and you must demonstrate basic vehicle control and traffic law knowledge.
  • Fees total $16 for the license itself plus $7 for the written test and $7 for the driving test, paid at the DPS office on the day of your appointment.
  • You can schedule your appointment online through the DPS website, by phone, or in person at any DPS office, and wait times vary by location from same-week to several weeks out.

Gather Your Documents Before Your Appointment

You must bring original documents — not copies — to your DPS appointment. Texas requires proof of identity, proof of Texas residency, and proof of your Social Security number. A single document can satisfy more than one requirement if it contains the necessary information.

For proof of identity, bring one of these: a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a Certificate of Naturalization, a military ID, or a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). A school ID, work ID, or expired driver license does not count. If you are under 18, your parent or legal guardian must also bring an ID.

For proof of Texas residency, bring one document dated within the last 30 days showing your name and current Texas address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a bank or credit card statement, or a government-issued document. A cell phone bill or insurance bill may work depending on what information it shows — call your local DPS office if you are unsure.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a driver license.

Schedule Your Appointment at a DPS Office

Texas DPS offices do not accept walk-ins for driver license appointments. You must schedule in advance through one of three methods: the online appointment system at the DPS website, by calling 1-844-DPS-TXDL (1-844-377-8935), or by visiting a DPS office in person to schedule a future appointment.

The online system shows available dates and times at each office. Some offices have openings within days; others may not have an opening for several weeks. If your local office is fully booked, you can often find an earlier appointment at an office in a nearby city. Write down your appointment confirmation number and the date, time, and office location.

Arrive at least 15 minutes early with all your documents. If you are under 18, your parent or legal guardian must be present. Bring the documents listed above, your Social Security card or proof of Social Security number, and any other documents you think might help (such as a second form of ID or residency proof). Do not bring weapons or items prohibited by the DPS office.

Take the Written Knowledge Test

The written test covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and vehicle operation. You will answer 30 multiple-choice questions on a computer at the DPS office. You must score at least 70 percent (21 out of 30 questions correct) to pass. The test is offered in English and Spanish.

The test covers topics like right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, seat belt laws, following distance, and what different road signs mean. You can study using the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free and available on the DPS website. Many people study the handbook for a few hours or a few days before their appointment.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. You will pay the $7 test fee again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the written test, but you must pass it before you can take the driving test.

Take the Driving Test

After you pass the written test, you will take the driving test with a DPS examiner. The test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and responding to road conditions. You will drive on public roads in your own vehicle or a DPS vehicle, depending on the office.

The examiner will ask you to perform tasks like starting the vehicle, turning, stopping, parking, and backing up. They will also observe how you handle intersections, pedestrians, and other traffic. You must follow all traffic laws during the test — speeding, running a red light, or hitting a curb will result in failure.

If you fail the driving test, you can retake it at a future appointment. You will pay the $7 test fee again. Most people pass on their first or second attempt. If you pass, the examiner will tell you that day, and you will receive your temporary license before you leave the office.

Pay Fees and Receive Your License

The total cost is $30: $16 for the driver license itself, $7 for the written test, and $7 for the driving test. You pay all fees at the DPS office on the day of your appointment, after you pass both tests. The office accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card.

After you pay, you will receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days. Your permanent plastic license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The temporary license is valid for driving in Texas and most other states during that time.

If your address changes before your permanent license arrives, you can update it online through the DPS website or at a DPS office. If your permanent license is lost or damaged when it arrives, contact the DPS to request a replacement.

What Happens If You Fail a Test

If you fail the written test, you can retake it when ready at the same appointment or schedule a new appointment. You pay the $7 fee each time you test. There is no waiting period between attempts, and no limit on how many times you can retake it.

If you fail the driving test, you must schedule a new appointment. You cannot retake the driving test on the same day. You will pay the $7 driving test fee again at your next appointment. Most DPS offices can schedule you within one to three weeks.

Common reasons for failing the driving test include hitting a curb, failing to use a turn signal, speeding, not stopping completely at a stop sign, or hitting another vehicle. If you fail, the examiner will tell you what you did wrong. Study that specific skill or behavior before your next appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or at home?

No. You must take both the written test and the driving test in person at a DPS office. Texas does not offer online testing or remote testing of any kind for driver licenses.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You must obtain a Social Security number from the Social Security Administration before you can get a Texas driver license. You cannot get a license without one. Contact your local Social Security office or visit ssa.gov to learn how the process works.

Do I need to bring my own vehicle for the driving test?

You can use your own vehicle or a DPS vehicle, depending on the office. Some offices provide vehicles; others require you to bring your own. Call your local DPS office to ask which option is available. If you use your own vehicle, it must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition.

How long does the entire process take on the day of my appointment?

Plan for one to three hours from arrival to departure. This includes document review, the written test (about 15 to 20 minutes), waiting time, and the driving test (about 20 to 30 minutes). Busy offices may take longer.

What if I move to a different Texas city before my permanent license arrives?

You can update your address online through the DPS website or visit any DPS office in person. Your temporary license is valid at your old address until your permanent license arrives, so update your address as soon as possible after you move.