What You Need Before You Start
Texas issues driver's licenses through the Department of Public Safety (DPS), and you'll need to visit a DPS office in person to complete the process. Before you go, gather these documents: proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or consulate ID), proof of Texas residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days), proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and your completed process for a Driver License or Identification Card (Form DL-44). You can fill out the form at home or at the office.
If you're under 18, you'll also need a completed Parental Consent form (Form DL-43) signed by a parent or guardian, and proof that you've completed driver education and a behind-the-wheel driving course from an approved provider. Texas requires these courses for anyone under 18 before they can take the driving test.
Bring the originals of all documents — photocopies alone won't work. If any document is not in English, bring a certified English translation along with the original.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a DPS office in person with original documents proving identity, residency, and Social Security number.
- Applicants under 18 must complete an approved driver education course and behind-the-wheel training before taking the driving test.
- The written test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs; the driving test is conducted by a DPS examiner at a DPS office.
- A standard driver's license costs $33 and is valid for eight years; renewal can be done by mail or online if you meet certain conditions.
- If you fail either test, you can retake it after waiting one day, but you'll pay the test fee again.
The Written Test and What It Covers
The written test (also called the knowledge test) has 30 multiple-choice questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to answer at least 21 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and several other languages at most DPS offices.
You can study using the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free and available on the DPS website. Many people also use practice tests online to prepare. The test takes about 20 to 30 minutes. If you fail, you can retake it the next day, but you'll pay the test fee again (usually around $10 to $15, depending on your county).
Some DPS offices allow you to take the written test on the same day you explore, while others schedule it for a later appointment. Call your local DPS office or check their website to find out their process.
The Driving Test: What to Expect
The driving test is conducted by a DPS examiner and lasts about 20 to 25 minutes. You'll drive on public roads near the DPS office while the examiner watches and scores your performance. The test checks your ability to start the vehicle, control steering, use the brakes smoothly, turn correctly, park, and follow traffic laws.
You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle's registration and insurance documents must be current. A parent, guardian, or licensed adult (at least 21 years old) must be present during the test if you're under 18, but they cannot sit in the front seat while you drive.
Common reasons people fail include rolling through stop signs, improper lane changes, speeding, and hitting the curb while parking. If you fail, you can retake the test after one day, but you'll pay the test fee again.
Finding Your Local DPS Office and Scheduling
Texas has DPS offices in most cities and counties. You can find the office nearest you on the DPS website by entering your zip code. Some offices accept walk-ins, but many now require appointments due to demand. Check your local office's website or call ahead to see whether you need to schedule in advance.
Wait times vary widely by location and time of year. Urban offices tend to be busier than rural ones, and late summer and early fall are peak times because many teenagers are preparing for school. If your local office has a long wait, you may be able to visit an office in a nearby county.
Bring all your documents and be prepared to wait, even with an appointment. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number, as DPS will verify it before issuing your license.
Costs and How Long It Takes
A standard Texas driver's license costs $33 and is valid for eight years. If you're under 21, the license costs $33 and expires on your 21st birthday. The written test fee and driving test fee are separate and vary by county, but typically run $10 to $15 each.
The entire process — from your first visit to receiving your license in the mail — usually takes two to four weeks. You'll receive a temporary paper license at the DPS office that day, which is valid while you wait for your plastic card to arrive by mail. If you need your license sooner, some DPS offices can issue a temporary license that's valid for 30 days while your permanent one is being made.
If you're renewing rather than getting your first license, you may be able to renew by mail or online if your license is not suspended and you haven't had certain violations. Check the DPS website to see if you're may be able to access for online or mail renewal.
What Happens If You Fail or Need to Retake
If you fail the written test, you can retake it the next day. If you fail the driving test, you must wait at least one day before retaking it. Each time you retake a test, you pay the test fee again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake either test, but you must pass both before DPS will issue your license.
If you fail the driving test, ask the examiner what specific skills you need to work on. Many people benefit from additional practice with a licensed driving instructor between attempts. Instructors can focus on the areas where you struggled and help you build confidence.
If you're struggling with the written test, review the Texas Driver Handbook section by section and take practice tests repeatedly until you're scoring above 80 percent. The questions on the actual test come directly from the handbook, so studying it thoroughly is the best preparation.
Special Situations: Suspensions, Restrictions, and Real ID
If your driving privilege is suspended in Texas or any other state, you cannot get a driver's license until the suspension is lifted. You'll need to contact the DPS or the agency that imposed the suspension to find out what you must do to restore your privilege. This might involve paying a reinstatement fee, completing a defensive driving course, or waiting out a suspension period.
Texas also issues Real ID-compliant driver's licenses, which meet federal requirements for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. A Real ID license costs the same as a standard license but requires an additional document proving your legal presence in the United States (such as a birth certificate or passport). If you plan to fly domestically or enter federal buildings, ask for a Real ID license when you explore.
If you have a commercial driver's license (CDL) or need restrictions on your license (such as corrective lenses or an automatic transmission only), those are handled separately and may require additional tests or medical exams.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test before I've completed driver education?
No. If you're under 18, you must complete an approved driver education course and behind-the-wheel training before you can take either test. If you're 18 or older, you don't need driver education, but you still must pass both the written and driving tests.
What if I don't have a birth certificate or passport?
You can use other documents to prove identity, such as a consulate ID, tribal ID, or military ID. DPS accepts a list of approved documents. If you don't have any of these, contact your local DPS office to ask what alternatives they accept, as options vary slightly by office.
Do I need to bring my own car for the driving test?
Yes. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. If you don't own a car, you can borrow one from a family member or friend, as long as the registration and insurance are current and the vehicle passes a basic safety check (working brakes, lights, and steering).
Can I renew my license online or by mail?
You can renew online or by mail if your license is not suspended, you haven't had certain violations, and you meet other conditions. Check the DPS website or call your local office to see if you're may be able to access. First-time applicants must always visit an office in person.
How long is my temporary paper license valid?
Your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days while your plastic card is being made and mailed to you. Your plastic license usually arrives within two to four weeks. If it doesn't arrive within 60 days, contact DPS to request a replacement.