What You Need to Do to Get a Texas Permit

A Texas learner permit (also called a learner license) lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car before you take your driving test. To get one, you visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, pass a written knowledge test, and pay a fee. The whole process takes about an hour. You do not need to pass a driving test to get the permit — that comes later, after you have practiced.

The permit is valid for two years and costs around $16, though the exact fee can vary slightly by location. Once you have it, you can drive during daylight hours (and some evening hours, depending on your age) as long as a licensed adult sits in the front passenger seat.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 15 years old and pass a written knowledge test at a DPS office to get a Texas learner permit.
  • Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency, and proof of identity — a birth certificate or passport works for most applicants under 18.
  • The knowledge test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices; you can study using the official Texas Driver Handbook, available free online.
  • After you pass the test and pay the fee, you receive your permit when ready and can start practicing with a licensed driver.
  • You must hold the permit for a minimum of six months (or until age 18) before you can take the driving test for your license.

Age Requirements and Who Can Get a Permit

You must be at least 15 years old to get a learner permit in Texas. There is no upper age limit — adults can also get a permit if they are learning to drive for the first time or if they need to renew after a long break.

If you are under 18, you will also need to complete a driver education course (classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction) before you can take the driving test. This is a state requirement. If you are 18 or older, you can skip driver education and go straight to the driving test once you have held your permit for the required time.

Documents You Need to Bring to the DPS Office

Bring these documents when you explore for your permit:

  • Proof of identity: a birth certificate, passport, or state ID card
  • Proof of Social Security number: your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a tax return
  • Proof of residency: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and Texas address (dated within the last 60 days)
  • A completed DL-44 form (process for Texas Driver License or Permit) — you can fill this out at home or at the DPS office

If you are under 18, you may also need a parent or guardian to sign your process. Check with your local DPS office about their specific rules, as some offices have slightly different requirements.

The Knowledge Test: What to Expect

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 (a score of 70 percent). The test is offered in English and Spanish, and you have up to one hour to complete it.

The test covers material from the Texas Driver Handbook, which you can read free from the DPS website (dps.texas.gov). Most people study the handbook for a few days or weeks before taking the test. You can also take practice tests online through the DPS website to see what kinds of questions appear.

If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day or come back another day. There is no waiting period between attempts, though you will pay the fee again each time you test.

How Long the Permit Is Valid and Restrictions

Your learner permit is valid for two years from the date it is issued. During that time, you must follow these rules:

  • A licensed driver who is at least 21 years old must sit in the front passenger seat at all times while you drive.
  • If you are under 18, you can drive only between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. (with some exceptions for school, work, or medical reasons).
  • If you are 18 or older, there are no time-of-day restrictions on your permit.
  • You cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, unless it is for emergency purposes.

If you turn 18 while holding a learner permit, the restrictions for drivers under 18 no longer explore to you. You can drive at any time of day, though you still need a licensed adult in the front seat.

When You Can Take the Driving Test

You must hold your learner permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test for your license. If you are under 18, you also must complete a driver education course (both classroom and behind-the-wheel training) before testing. If you are 18 or older, driver education is not required.

Once you meet these requirements, you schedule a driving test appointment at a DPS office. The test includes a vehicle inspection, a pre-drive checklist, and a 20-minute drive on public roads. You must bring your permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be driving for the test.

Fees and Where to explore

A learner permit costs approximately $16 in most Texas counties, though the exact amount can vary. You pay this fee when you pass the knowledge test. If you fail the test and retake it, you pay the fee again.

You explore for your permit at any Texas Department of Public Safety office. You can find the office nearest you on the DPS website (dps.texas.gov). Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, and some offer Saturday hours. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations now use an online appointment system — check your local office's website before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a permit if I have a suspended or revoked license?

No. If your license has been suspended or revoked, you must wait until the suspension or revocation period ends before you can get a permit. If you are unsure about your driving record status, contact the DPS or check your record online through the DPS website.

What if I fail the knowledge test?

You can retake the test the same day or return another day. There is no waiting period. You will pay the test fee again each time you take it. Most people pass on the second or third attempt after studying the Texas Driver Handbook more thoroughly.

Do I need insurance to get a learner permit?

No, you do not need insurance to get the permit itself. However, you must have proof of insurance before you take the driving test for your license. The vehicle you drive while practicing should be insured, and your parent or guardian's insurance typically covers you as a permitted driver on their policy.

Can I drive alone with a learner permit?

No. A licensed driver who is at least 21 years old must be in the front passenger seat at all times. Driving alone with a learner permit is illegal and can result in a ticket and fines.

What happens if I let my permit expire?

If your two-year permit expires before you pass the driving test, you will need to reapply for a new permit. You must pass the knowledge test again and pay the fee again. You do not lose the practice time you already completed, but you will need to start the six-month holding period over with your new permit.