The documents and steps to get your first Texas license

To get a Texas driver's license, you need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and proof of lawful presence in the United States to a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. You'll also need to pass a written knowledge test, a vision test, and a driving test. The whole process takes a few weeks from start to finish, though you can get a temporary paper license the day you pass your driving test.

Texas does not issue licenses to people without lawful presence status. If you're in the country without authorization, you cannot get a standard driver's license, though Texas does offer a separate document called a Driving Privilege Document (DPD) if you meet other requirements.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring original or certified documents proving your identity, Texas residency, Social Security number, and lawful presence to a DPS office.
  • You will take a written test on traffic laws, a vision screening, and a behind-the-wheel driving test before the license is issued.
  • A temporary paper license is issued the day you pass your driving test; the plastic card arrives by mail within two to three weeks.
  • If you have an out-of-state license, you can skip the written test but must still pass the vision and driving tests.
  • Texas offers a Driving Privilege Document for people without lawful presence, but it has different rules and restrictions than a standard license.

What documents to bring to the DPS office

You need to bring originals or certified copies of four types of documents. For identity, bring a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, or a foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa. A school ID or library card will not work.

For Texas residency, bring a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a bank statement dated within the last 30 days and showing your current Texas address. A cell phone bill or credit card statement will not work for residency proof.

For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. You cannot use a letter from Social Security or a paystub.

For lawful presence, bring your U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate showing you were born in the United States, a military ID, a Certificate of Naturalization, a Permanent Resident Card (green card), or an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). If you are a citizen of a country that participates in the Visa Waiver Program and have a valid passport from that country, you may also use that.

The written test, vision screening, and driving test

The written knowledge test covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You get 25 questions and must answer at least 18 correctly to pass. You can take the test in English or Spanish. If you already have a valid driver's license from another state, you do not have to take the written test, but you still must pass the vision and driving tests.

The vision screening checks that you can see well enough to drive safely. You must be able to see at least 20/40 in each eye with or without glasses or contacts. If you wear corrective lenses, you must wear them during the test and your license will be marked to show you must wear them while driving.

The driving test is conducted by a DPS examiner who rides with you in your own vehicle. The test takes about 20 to 30 minutes and covers basic skills like starting the car, steering, braking, turning, parking, and following traffic laws. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will check the brakes, lights, wipers, and horn before the test begins.

Timeline and temporary license

The day you pass your driving test, the DPS office will issue you a temporary paper license that is valid for 45 days. This temporary license allows you to drive legally while you wait for your plastic card to arrive by mail. The plastic card usually arrives within two to three weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods.

If you fail the driving test, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no waiting period between attempts, though you will pay the test fee each time you take it.

Cost of a Texas driver's license

The fee for a standard five-year driver's license is $33. If you want an eight-year license, the fee is $48. These fees cover the written test, vision screening, and driving test. You do not pay separately for each component.

If you need to replace a lost or damaged license, the fee is $11. If you need to renew your license early, you pay the full renewal fee, not a prorated amount.

Special situations: out-of-state licenses and name changes

If you already have a valid driver's license from another state, you can convert it to a Texas license without taking the written test. You still must pass the vision screening and driving test. Bring your out-of-state license along with the same identity, residency, and Social Security documents required for a new license.

If you have changed your name since your last license was issued—through marriage, divorce, or legal name change—bring a certified copy of the document that shows the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You will need to provide this along with your other documents.

Driving Privilege Document for people without lawful presence

Texas offers a Driving Privilege Document (DPD) to people who cannot prove lawful presence in the United States but who meet other requirements. To get a DPD, you must have lived in Texas for at least two years, pass the written test, vision screening, and driving test, and provide an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number.

A DPD looks different from a standard license and is marked clearly as a privilege document, not a driver's license. It is valid for two years and can be used to drive in Texas, but it is not accepted as federal identification and cannot be used to board a plane or enter a federal building. Some employers and financial institutions may not accept it as proof of identity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or at home?

No. You must take the written test, vision screening, and driving test in person at a Texas DPS office. You cannot take any part of the test remotely or by mail.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test the same day or schedule another appointment at no additional charge beyond the test fee. There is no waiting period between attempts. Most people pass on their second or third try.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I bring a different document?

You do not have to bring your Social Security card specifically. You can bring a W-2, 1099, tax return, or any other document listed by DPS that shows your Social Security number. A paystub or letter from Social Security will not work.

How long is a Texas driver's license valid?

A standard Texas driver's license is valid for five years. You can choose to get an eight-year license instead for a higher fee. A Driving Privilege Document is valid for two years.

Can I use a digital copy of my documents, or do I need originals?

You must bring original documents or certified copies. Digital copies, photos, or scans are not accepted. A certified copy is one stamped and signed by the issuing agency, such as a certified birth certificate from the vital records office.