What you need to do to get your first Texas license

Getting your first Texas driver's license involves three main steps: getting a learner permit, passing a written test and a road test, then trading that permit for a full license. The whole process usually takes several weeks to a few months, depending on how quickly you schedule your tests and how many attempts you need. Texas issues licenses through the Department of Public Safety (DPS), and you'll handle most of the work at a local DPS office.

You cannot skip the learner permit stage — it's a legal requirement in Texas, not an option. The permit lets you drive with a licensed adult in the car while you practice. Once you pass both tests, you move to a full license with no restrictions.

Key Takeaways

  • You must get a learner permit first, pass a written test at a DPS office, then pass a road test before you can get a full license.
  • Bring your Social Security card, proof of residency (like a utility bill or lease), and proof of identity to your first DPS visit.
  • The written test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs; you need to score at least 70 percent to pass.
  • The road test is given by a DPS examiner and lasts about 20 to 30 minutes; you must use a vehicle registered in Texas.
  • You must be at least 16 years old to get a learner permit and at least 16 years and 6 months old to take the road test.

Documents you need before your first DPS visit

Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone won't work. You need proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or consular report of birth), proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card or a W-2 form), and proof of residency in Texas (a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days). If you're under 18, you'll also need a parent or guardian to sign a consent form at the DPS office.

If you don't have a Social Security number yet, you can still get a learner permit, but you'll need to explore for one before you take your road test. The DPS office can tell you how to do this when you arrive.

Bring the originals of these documents — don't rely on photos or digital copies. The DPS staff will verify them in person and may keep copies on file.

The written test: what to study and how to pass

The written test covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You answer 30 multiple-choice questions on a computer at the DPS office. You need to score at least 70 percent (21 out of 30 correct) to pass. If you don't pass, you can retake it the same day or come back another day — there's no waiting period between attempts.

The Texas Driver Handbook, available free on the DPS website and in print at any DPS office, covers everything on the test. Most people study it for a few days or a week before taking the test. You can also take practice tests online through the DPS website to see what kinds of questions appear.

The test is offered in English and Spanish. You can also request a test in other languages, but you'll need to arrange that ahead of time by calling your local DPS office.

The road test: scheduling, what to expect, and what you need

You can schedule your road test at any DPS office once you've passed the written test. Wait times vary by location — some offices have openings within a week or two, while others may have a wait of several weeks. Call ahead or check online to see what's available in your area. You must be at least 16 years and 6 months old to take the road test.

Bring a vehicle that is registered in Texas, has a valid inspection sticker, and is in safe working condition. The examiner will check the brakes, lights, wipers, horn, and steering before you start. Bring your learner permit and a valid form of ID. If you're under 18, a parent or guardian does not need to be present for the test, but they must have signed your consent form at your first DPS visit.

The test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. The examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks — starting the car, turning, backing up, parking, and stopping. They'll also have you drive on local streets and possibly a highway. You must follow all traffic laws, use your turn signals, and demonstrate safe driving habits. If you don't pass, you can retake it after waiting at least one day.

Age requirements and restrictions for new drivers under 18

You must be at least 16 years old to get a learner permit in Texas. You must be at least 16 years and 6 months old to take the road test and get a full license. If you're under 18 when you get your license, it will have restrictions that last until you turn 18.

With a learner permit, you can only drive with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old sitting next to you in the front seat. You cannot drive alone. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, except in an emergency.

Once you get your full license as a minor, you still have restrictions: you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. for the first six months, and you cannot drive between midnight and 4 a.m. after that, until you turn 18. You also cannot have more than one passenger under 21 in the car (unless they're a family member) for the first six months. These restrictions lift automatically when you turn 18.

What happens after you pass your road test

After you pass the road test, the DPS will issue your license on the spot or mail it to you within a few days, depending on the office. Your license is valid for six years if you're under 18 (it will be renewed automatically when you turn 18), or eight years if you're 18 or older. You'll receive a temporary paper license to use while you wait for your plastic card to arrive in the mail.

Keep your learner permit until your new license arrives — it serves as proof that you've passed both tests. Once your license comes, you can throw the permit away.

If you fail the written or road test

Failing the written test means you can retake it the same day or any day after. There's no penalty or waiting period. Most people who fail study the handbook more thoroughly and pass on their second or third attempt.

If you fail the road test, you must wait at least one day before retaking it. You can schedule your next attempt at the same DPS office. Most people pass within two or three attempts. Common reasons for failing include not using turn signals, rolling through stop signs, or hitting a curb during parking. Ask the examiner for feedback on what you need to improve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner permit online or by mail?

No. You must visit a DPS office in person to get a learner permit. You'll need to show your documents, have your photo taken, and pay the fee. The written test is also given in person at the office.

What if I move to Texas from another state?

If you already have a valid driver's license from another state, you can exchange it for a Texas license without taking the written or road test. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of residency in Texas, and proof of identity to a DPS office. If your out-of-state license is expired, you'll need to take both tests.

How much does a Texas learner permit and license cost?

Fees vary slightly by DPS office, but a learner permit costs around $16 and a driver's license costs around $33. Fees are paid at the DPS office when you explore. Exact amounts are listed on the DPS website.

Can I take the written test in a language other than English or Spanish?

The test is routinely offered in English and Spanish. Other languages may be available at some offices, but you'll need to call ahead to arrange it. Contact your local DPS office at least a week in advance.

What if I fail the road test multiple times?

There's no limit to how many times you can retake the road test. You must wait at least one day between attempts. If you're struggling, consider taking additional driving lessons with an instructor before your next attempt.