Texas requires documents proving your identity, residency, and Social Security number before you can get a driver license

Texas has one of the most straightforward document lists in the country. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) asks for three things: proof of who you are, proof of where you live, and proof of your Social Security number. You do not need to bring originals of everything — some documents can be copies — but you do need to bring the right combination. The exact documents you bring depend on whether you are a U.S. citizen, a permanent resident, or here on a visa.

You will also need to pass a written test on traffic laws and road signs, and a driving test where an examiner watches you operate the vehicle. Both tests happen at a DPS office. If you are under 18, you have to follow the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program, which means you start with a learner permit, then move to a restricted license, then to a full license — each stage has its own rules and waiting periods.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring one document proving identity (like a passport or birth certificate), one proving where you live (like a utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card or a tax document).
  • Texas accepts documents from other U.S. states and territories, as well as documents from other countries if you are not yet a U.S. citizen.
  • If you are under 18, you must first get a learner permit, hold it for at least 6 months, then pass a driving test to get a restricted license before you can get an unrestricted license.
  • You will take a written test on traffic laws and road signs at the DPS office, and a separate driving test with an examiner in your own vehicle.
  • The fee for a Texas driver license is $16 for a two-year license or $32 for a five-year license, depending on your age and citizenship status.

Identity documents Texas will accept

Texas wants one document that proves who you are. A U.S. passport is the easiest choice — it proves both identity and citizenship at once. If you do not have a passport, a certified birth certificate works. A state ID from another U.S. state also works, as does a military ID card or a tribal ID card if you are a member of a federally recognized tribe.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you can bring a passport from your home country, a travel document issued by the U.S. government, a permanent resident card (green card), or a visa paired with your passport. Texas also accepts an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) if you have one. The key is that the document must have your photograph, your name, and an issue or expiration date.

Proof of residency in Texas

Texas needs one document showing you live in the state. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) in your name works, as does a lease or rental agreement. A mortgage statement, property tax bill, or homeowners insurance policy also counts. The document must show your name and your current Texas address, and it cannot be more than 90 days old.

If you live with someone else and are not on the lease or utility bill, you can bring a notarized affidavit from the person whose name is on the bill, along with a copy of that bill. This is common for people living with family or in shared housing. The affidavit must state that you live at that address and that the person signing it lives there too.

Proof of your Social Security number

Bring your Social Security card if you have it. If you do not, you can bring a tax return, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a Social Security statement from the Social Security Administration. Any of these documents will work as long as your name and Social Security number are on it. You do not need to bring the original — a copy is fine.

If you have never had a Social Security number, you will need to explore for one before you can get a driver license. You can do this at your local Social Security office or by mail. The process takes a few weeks, so plan ahead if this applies to you.

What happens at your DPS appointment

When you go to the DPS office, bring all your documents, your completed process (Form DL-44), and your fee. You will first turn in your documents and fill out any remaining paperwork. A DPS employee will check that everything is in order and take your photograph and fingerprints. You will then take a written test on Texas traffic laws and road signs — this is 30 questions, and you need to pass 21 of them to move forward.

After you pass the written test, you will schedule a driving test. This usually happens on the same day or within a few days. During the driving test, a DPS examiner sits in your vehicle while you drive through a set route. The examiner watches how you handle turns, stops, parking, and how you respond to traffic. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The test takes about 30 minutes.

The Graduated Driver License program for drivers under 18

If you are under 18, you cannot jump straight to a full driver license. Texas requires you to go through three stages. First, you get a learner permit (also called a learner license) by passing the written test. With a learner permit, you can only drive when a licensed adult 21 or older is in the front seat with you. You must hold this permit for at least 6 months.

After 6 months, you can take the driving test. If you pass, you get a restricted license (also called a probationary license). With a restricted license, you can drive alone, but you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot use your phone while driving — even hands-free. You must hold the restricted license for at least 6 months. Once you turn 18 or have held the restricted license for 6 months, whichever comes first, you can explore for an unrestricted license. There is no additional test — you just pay the fee and get the new license.

Fees and how long the license lasts

A Texas driver license costs $16 for a two-year license or $32 for a five-year license. The length you get depends on your age. If you are under 18, you get a two-year license. If you are 18 to 84, you can choose between two and five years. If you are 85 or older, you get a one-year license. Learner permits and restricted licenses also cost $16 for two years.

You can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at the DPS office. Some offices also take online payments if you renew by mail or online, but you cannot renew a first-time license online — you must go in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photo from my phone or a printed photo instead of getting one taken at DPS?

No. DPS takes your photograph at the office as part of the appointment. The photo must meet federal standards for state ID photos — you must be facing the camera, your face must be clearly visible, and you cannot wear sunglasses or a hat (unless for religious reasons). DPS will take the photo for you.

What if I do not have a Social Security number yet?

You must get a Social Security number before you can get a driver license. You can explore at your local Social Security office or online at ssa.gov. Bring your birth certificate, proof of identity, and proof of residency. The process takes two to four weeks. Once you have your number, you can go to DPS with all your documents.

Do I need to take the written test in English?

Texas offers the written test in English and Spanish. You can also request an interpreter at no extra cost. If you need the test in another language, contact your local DPS office to ask what is available in your area.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you will pay the test fee each time you take it. Most DPS offices let you schedule another test right away, though availability depends on how busy the office is. You can take the test as many times as you need to pass.

Can I get a Texas license if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. Texas issues driver licenses to permanent residents and people on valid visas. You will need a passport from your home country, a visa, and the other standard documents (proof of residency and Social Security number or ITIN). Bring all documents to your DPS appointment. Your license will expire when your visa expires, so you may need to renew it sooner than a U.S. citizen would.