What You Need to Do to Get a Texas Driver's License
To get your first driver's license in Texas, you will need to pass a written knowledge test, a driving test, and a vision screening at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. You must be at least 16 years old, bring specific identity and residency documents, and pay a fee. The entire process takes place over two visits: one to pass the written test and obtain a learner permit, and a second visit at least 14 days later to take the driving test.
Texas does not require you to take a formal driver education course before testing, though some people choose to. You can study for the written test using the Texas Driver's Handbook, which is free and available online at the DPS website or in print at any DPS office.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a DPS office twice: first to pass the written test and get a learner permit, then at least 14 days later to pass the driving test.
- Bring an original or certified birth certificate, proof of Social Security number, two documents showing your Texas address, and a completed DL 44 form.
- The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices from the Texas Driver's Handbook.
- You must pass a vision screening, written test, and on-road driving test before the license is issued.
- The total cost is $16 for a learner permit and $32 for a five-year license, though fees may vary slightly by location.
Documents You Must Bring to the DPS Office
Texas requires specific documents to prove your identity, age, and residency. Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate — a photocopy will not be accepted. You also need proof of your Social Security number, which can be a Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form.
For residency, bring two documents showing your current Texas address. These can include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail. Both documents must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days. A driver's license from another state counts as identity but not as residency proof.
You will also need to complete Form DL 44, the process for a Texas Driver's License. You can fill this out before you arrive or at the DPS office. Bring the form with you or ask for one when you check in.
Step-by-Step Process for Your First Visit
Your first visit to a DPS office is to obtain a learner permit. Arrive with all required documents and your completed DL 44 form. Check in at the front desk and wait to be called.
When called, a DPS employee will review your documents, take your photograph, and conduct a vision screening. You will read letters and numbers on a chart to confirm your vision meets the standard. If you wear glasses or contacts, wear them during this test.
Next, you will take the written knowledge test. This test has 30 questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You must answer at least 21 questions correctly to pass. The test is administered on a computer at the DPS office. You have time to review your answers before submitting.
If you pass, you will pay the learner permit fee and receive your permit the same day. Your learner permit is valid for one year and allows you to drive only with a licensed adult age 21 or older in the front seat.
What to Study for the Written Test
The Texas Driver's Handbook covers everything on the written test. You can read it free from the DPS website or pick up a printed copy at any DPS office. Focus on these topics: right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking laws, traffic signals and signs, seat belt requirements, and what to do at a stop sign or red light.
The test also includes questions about impaired driving, distracted driving, and sharing the road with motorcycles and large trucks. Study the handbook section on these topics carefully, as they appear on most tests.
Many people use online practice tests to prepare. These are not official but can help you get used to the question format. The official practice test is available on the DPS website.
Your Second Visit: The Driving Test
You must wait at least 14 days after passing the written test before you can take the driving test. During this time, practice driving with a licensed adult. There is no maximum wait time, so you can take the test weeks or months later if you need more practice.
When you are ready, return to the same DPS office with your learner permit and a vehicle. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. Bring proof of insurance and registration with you.
A DPS examiner will inspect the vehicle to make sure the brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and mirrors work. Then you will drive a set route in the local area, usually lasting 10 to 15 minutes. The examiner will watch how you handle turns, stops, parking, and traffic. You must follow all traffic laws during the test.
If you pass, you will pay the license fee and receive your five-year driver's license on the spot. If you do not pass, you can retake the test. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you must pay the test fee each time.
Fees and License Validity
The learner permit costs $16 and is valid for one year. The five-year driver's license costs $32. Some DPS offices may charge slightly different amounts, so check your local office's website before you go.
Your Texas driver's license is valid for five years from the date it is issued. You will need to renew it before it expires if you want to continue driving legally. Renewal is a separate process and can often be done by mail or online.
If you are under 18 when you get your license, there are additional restrictions. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. for the first six months, and you cannot use a cell phone while driving. These restrictions lift after six months or when you turn 18, whichever comes first.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not bring a photocopy of your birth certificate — it must be an original or certified copy. Do not bring documents showing an old address; both residency documents must be dated within the last 60 days. Do not forget to wear your glasses or contacts during the vision screening if you normally wear them.
Do not schedule your driving test too soon after getting your learner permit. You need time to practice, and rushing into the test before you are ready is the most common reason people fail. Most people benefit from at least a few weeks of practice driving.
Do not bring a vehicle to the driving test that has mechanical problems. The examiner will check the brakes, lights, wipers, and mirrors. If any of these fail inspection, you will not be allowed to test that day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test and driving test on the same day?
No. Texas law requires at least 14 days between passing the written test and taking the driving test. This waiting period is designed to give you time to practice driving with your learner permit.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake the written test the same day or any day after. There is no waiting period between attempts. You will pay the learner permit fee each time you test. Most people pass on their second attempt if they study the handbook more carefully.
Do I have to take a driver education course?
No. Texas does not require a formal driver education course for first-time license holders age 18 and older. However, if you are under 18, you may be required to complete a course depending on your school district. Check with your school or local DPS office.
What vehicle can I use for the driving test?
You can use any vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and mirrors. It can be a car, truck, or SUV. You cannot use a motorcycle or commercial vehicle.
How long is the driving test?
The driving test usually lasts 10 to 15 minutes. You will drive a set route in the local area around the DPS office. The examiner will evaluate how you handle turns, stops, parking, and traffic situations.