Schedule your Texas written test through the Texas Department of Public Safety website or by visiting a DPS office in person

You can book your written test online at dps.texas.gov using the DPS Online Services portal, or you can walk into any Texas DPS office during business hours and schedule at the counter. The online route is faster — you pick your test date and location when ready — but both methods work. You'll need your Texas ID number or Social Security number to schedule online.

Texas does not use a separate testing company or third-party vendor for written tests. The DPS runs all testing directly, so there's only one place to book: the state's own system. This means you won't find your test listed on a private testing site or through a driving school, even if you're taking lessons.

Key Takeaways

  • Book your written test through dps.texas.gov or at a DPS office; you cannot schedule by phone.
  • You can test as soon as you have your learner permit, and you can take the written test before or after your road test.
  • Test dates fill up during peak times (late afternoon, weekends, summer months), so book at least two weeks ahead if you can.
  • Bring your learner permit, a valid photo ID, and proof of residency to your test appointment.
  • The test is 50 questions on Texas traffic laws and safe driving; you need 40 correct to pass.

Scheduling online through the DPS portal

Go to dps.texas.gov and look for the "Online Services" link on the homepage. Click it and select "Schedule a DPS Appointment." You'll be asked to enter your Texas ID number (from your learner permit) or your Social Security number. If you don't have a Texas ID yet, you can use your Social Security number instead.

Once you log in, the system will show you available test dates and times at DPS offices near you. You can filter by location and pick the date that works best. Texas DPS offices typically offer test slots Monday through Friday during business hours, with some locations open Saturday mornings. After you select your slot, you'll receive a confirmation number by email. Save this number — you'll need it at your appointment.

The online system is open 24 hours, so you can schedule at any time. However, popular time slots (late afternoon, Saturdays, and summer months) book up quickly. If you see no available dates near you, try searching a different location or checking back a few days later when new slots open.

Scheduling in person at a DPS office

Walk into any Texas DPS office during business hours and tell the clerk you want to schedule a written test. Bring your learner permit and a photo ID. The clerk will check your record, confirm you're ready to test, and book you for an available slot. You'll receive a written confirmation with your appointment date, time, and location.

In-person scheduling is useful if you prefer to talk to someone or if you're having trouble with the online system. It also works well if you want to test the same day — some offices have same-day slots available, though this is not may provide. Call ahead to your local DPS office to ask whether same-day testing is possible in your area.

What to bring to your test appointment

Bring your learner permit, a valid photo ID, and proof of Texas residency. Your learner permit counts as your primary document. For photo ID, use your passport, military ID, or another government-issued ID with your picture. If you don't have a second photo ID, a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement showing your current address works as proof of residency.

Do not bring your phone into the testing room. The DPS does not allow phones, smartwatches, or other electronic devices during the test. Leave them in your car or at home. You also cannot bring study materials, notes, or anyone else into the testing area.

How far in advance to schedule

Book your test at least two weeks ahead if possible. During busy seasons — summer break, holidays, and late afternoons on weekdays — slots fill up fast. If you're testing in June, July, or August, try to schedule three weeks out. If you need to test sooner, call your local DPS office to ask about cancellations or same-day openings.

You can schedule your written test as soon as you have your learner permit. You don't have to wait any set amount of time after getting your permit, and you don't have to pass the written test before scheduling your road test. Many people take both tests within a few weeks of each other.

What happens on test day

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Check in at the front desk, show your learner permit and photo ID, and the clerk will direct you to a testing station. You'll sit at a computer and take a 50-question test on Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You have up to one hour to finish. The test is multiple choice, and you need to answer at least 40 questions correctly to pass.

After you finish, the computer will tell you when ready whether you passed or failed. If you pass, you'll receive a score report. If you fail, you can usually schedule a retest the same day or within a few days. There is no waiting period between attempts in Texas, though some offices may have a short delay to reset the testing station.

Rescheduling or canceling your appointment

If you need to change your test date, log back into the DPS Online Services portal and select "Manage Appointment." You can reschedule to a different date or time without penalty. If you booked in person, call the DPS office where you scheduled and ask to move your appointment. Most offices will reschedule you over the phone.

If you need to cancel entirely, you can do so through the online portal or by calling your local office. There is no fee for canceling or rescheduling. However, if you cancel and want to test later, you'll need to schedule again from scratch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I schedule my written test by phone?

No. Texas DPS only accepts scheduling through the online portal at dps.texas.gov or in person at a DPS office. You cannot book by phone, email, or through a third-party service.

Do I have to take the written test before my road test?

No. You can take them in either order or even on the same day at some locations. Many people take the written test first, but it's not required. You'll need to pass both before you can get your full license.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it when ready or schedule another appointment within a few days. There's no waiting period in Texas. You can take the test as many times as you need until you pass. Each attempt costs the same fee.

Is the written test in English only?

No. Texas offers the written test in English and Spanish. When you schedule, you'll select your language preference. Some locations may also offer other languages — ask your DPS office about availability.

What if I'm running late to my appointment?

Call the DPS office where you're scheduled as soon as you know you'll be late. If you arrive more than 15 minutes after your appointment time, the office may cancel your slot and you'll need to reschedule. It's better to call ahead than to show up late.