What You Need to Do to Get a New Texas Driver's License

To get a new Texas driver's license, you must visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, pass a written knowledge test and a driving skills test, and provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. The entire process takes one visit if you pass both tests on the first attempt, though you may need to return for a second appointment if you fail either test. Texas does not allow online or mail-in applications for a new license — you must appear at a DPS office with your documents and take the tests yourself.

The process differs slightly depending on whether you are under 18 or 18 and older, and whether you already hold a license from another state. This guide covers the standard path for a first-time applicant in Texas.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DPS office in person with original identity documents, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number; copies or digital images are not accepted for identity verification.
  • You will take a written knowledge test covering Texas traffic laws, then a behind-the-wheel driving test with a DPS examiner; you must pass both to receive your license.
  • If you are under 18, you must first hold a learner permit for at least 6 months and complete a driver education course, or you cannot take the driving test.
  • The fee for a new driver's license is $33 for a standard 5-year license, or $66 for an 8-year license; payment is cash, check, or card at the office.
  • DPS offices do not accept walk-ins at most locations; you must schedule an appointment online or by phone before you arrive.

Documents You Must Bring to the DPS Office

You need an original document proving your identity, an original document proving your Texas residency, and proof of your Social Security number. Photocopies, faxes, and digital images on your phone do not count — the DPS examiner must see the physical original documents.

For identity, bring one of these originals: a valid U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate issued by the state or county where you were born, a valid foreign passport, a Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship, a Permanent Resident Card (green card), or a valid visa with an I-94 form. If you are under 18 and do not have a passport or birth certificate, you may use a school ID plus a report card or transcript from the current school year.

For residency, bring one original document dated within the last 30 days showing your name and current Texas address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a bank or credit card statement, or a government check. A cell phone bill does not count. If you live with someone else and do not have a bill in your name, you can bring a notarized affidavit from the person whose name is on the bill, plus that person's original identity document.

For Social Security, bring your original Social Security card, or an original document showing your number such as a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, you must explore for one at a Social Security Administration office before you can get a Texas driver's license.

How to Schedule Your DPS Appointment

Most DPS offices in Texas require an appointment; walk-in service is not available at most locations. You can schedule online through the DPS website at dps.texas.gov, or you can call the DPS Customer Service line at 1-844-DPS-TXDL (1-844-377-8935). Online scheduling is usually faster and shows you available times at offices near you.

When you schedule, you will select the type of service (new driver's license), your preferred DPS office, and an available date and time. Appointments typically fill 2 to 4 weeks in advance, especially in urban areas. If no appointments are available at your preferred office, try offices in nearby cities or counties — you can get your license at any DPS office in Texas, not just the one closest to you.

Arrive at your appointment 10 to 15 minutes early. Bring all required documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or damaged. If you are under 18, bring a parent or legal guardian with you; they must be present during the appointment and may need to sign consent forms.

The Written Knowledge Test and What It Covers

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 (70 percent) to pass. The test is given on a computer at the DPS office, and you receive your score when ready after you finish.

The test covers right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking laws, traffic signals and signs, seat belt and child safety seat laws, driving under the influence, and what to do at accident scenes. You can study using the official Texas Driver Handbook, which is free and available as a PDF on the DPS website. Many people also use practice tests online, though the DPS does not endorse any particular study app or website.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day at most offices, or you can schedule another appointment. There is no additional fee to retake the test. You do not move on to the driving test until you pass the written test.

The Driving Test: What the Examiner Will Ask You to Do

The driving test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. A DPS examiner sits in the passenger seat while you drive a vehicle on public roads. The examiner watches how you handle basic driving tasks and whether you follow traffic laws. You must use your own vehicle or a vehicle you have permission to use; the DPS does not provide vehicles for the test.

During the test, the examiner will ask you to perform tasks such as starting the vehicle, adjusting mirrors, using turn signals, making left and right turns, stopping at stop signs and traffic lights, changing lanes, parking (parallel and perpendicular), and backing up. The examiner is looking for smooth, safe driving and correct use of signals and mirrors. Common reasons people fail include not coming to a complete stop, not checking mirrors before turning or changing lanes, hitting the curb while parking, or hitting a cone or object during the test.

You must have a valid learner permit or a valid driver's license from another state to take the driving test. If you are under 18 in Texas, you must have held a learner permit for at least 6 months before you can take the driving test. If you fail the driving test, you can retake it after 7 days. There is no additional fee to retake the test.

Age-Specific Requirements for Drivers Under 18

If you are under 18, you cannot go directly to the driving test. You must first obtain a learner permit and hold it for at least 6 months. To get a learner permit, you visit a DPS office, pass the written knowledge test, and provide the same identity and residency documents as for a full license. The learner permit fee is $16.

While you hold a learner permit, you must drive only with a licensed adult (age 21 or older) in the front passenger seat. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. You must also complete a driver education course — either a classroom course or an online course approved by the Texas Education Agency. The course takes about 6 to 8 hours and covers traffic laws, hazard recognition, and safe driving practices. Many high schools offer the course for free; private driving schools charge $100 to $300.

After you have held the learner permit for 6 months and completed driver education, you can schedule a driving test appointment. You must bring your learner permit and your driver education certificate to the appointment.

Fees and Payment Methods

A standard 5-year Texas driver's license costs $33. An 8-year license costs $66. If you are 85 years old or older, a 5-year license costs $16. The DPS office accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card. There is no fee to retake the written test or the driving test if you fail on your first attempt.

If you pass both tests, you will receive a temporary paper license at the office that is valid for 30 days while your plastic card is being printed and mailed. Your permanent license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to drive before the plastic card arrives, the temporary license is your proof of licensure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or at home?

No. The written test must be taken at a DPS office on a computer provided by the DPS. You cannot take it online, by mail, or at a testing center outside the DPS. You must visit an office in person.

What if I fail the driving test — how long do I have to wait to retake it?

You must wait at least 7 days before you can retake the driving test. You can schedule your next appointment online or by phone. There is no fee to retake the test, and you do not have to retake the written test unless your learner permit or knowledge test result has expired.

Do I need a Social Security number to get a Texas driver's license?

Yes. Texas law requires a Social Security number to issue a driver's license. If you do not have one, you must explore for one at a Social Security Administration office before you can get a license. Bring your identity and residency documents to the SSA office.

Can I use a digital photo of my documents instead of bringing the originals?

No. The DPS requires original documents for identity verification. Photos on your phone, screenshots, or copies are not accepted. You must bring the physical original documents to your appointment.

What happens if I move to a different address after I get my license?

You must update your address with the DPS within 30 days of moving. You can do this online at dps.texas.gov, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. There is no fee for an address change. You do not need to retake the tests.