Texas does not offer the written knowledge test online

You cannot take the Texas written driver license test from home or through a computer. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) requires you to take the test in person at a DPS office or an approved third-party testing location. This applies whether you are a first-time driver, renewing after a suspension, or upgrading your license class.

The test must be administered by a person who can verify your identity and watch you take it. Texas does not make exceptions for online testing, even though some other states offer it. You will need to schedule an appointment or visit a testing location during business hours.

Key Takeaways

  • Texas requires you to take the written test in person at a DPS office or approved third-party location; online testing is not available.
  • You can find testing locations and book an appointment through the DPS website or by calling your local DPS office.
  • Bring a valid form of identification, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number to the test.
  • The test covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices from the Texas Driver Handbook, which you can read online before you go.
  • If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day at most locations, though you may have to pay the test fee again.

Where to take the test in Texas

The Texas DPS operates driver license offices in every county. You can find the office nearest you by visiting the DPS website and using their office locator tool, or by calling 1-800-558-9368. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some have extended hours or Saturday appointments.

You can also take the test at an approved third-party testing location. These are private businesses licensed by DPS to administer the written test. Third-party locations often have more flexible hours and shorter wait times than DPS offices. The DPS website lists all approved third-party testers in your area. Some charge a higher fee than the DPS office does, so check the cost before you book.

How to schedule your test appointment

Most DPS offices now require you to book an appointment in advance rather than walk in. You can schedule online through the DPS website, which lets you pick a date and time that works for you. You can also call your local DPS office to book over the phone, though wait times for phone appointments are often longer than online booking.

When you book, you will need to provide your name, date of birth, and the type of license you are testing for (Class C for a regular car, Class A or B for commercial vehicles, or a motorcycle endorsement). Write down your appointment confirmation number and bring it with you on test day. If you need to cancel or reschedule, do so through the website or by calling at least 24 hours before your appointment.

Documents you must bring to the test

Bring a valid form of identification with your photo and signature. Acceptable documents include a current passport, military ID, or an ID issued by another state or country. A school ID or work ID will not work. If you do not have a photo ID yet, call your local DPS office to ask what documents they will accept in its place.

You will also need proof of your Texas residency. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and address dated within the last 60 days. A driver license from another state counts as proof of residency if it shows a Texas address.

Bring your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You do not need to bring a card; you just need to know the number. If you do not have either, tell the DPS office staff when you arrive, and they will tell you what to do next.

What the test covers and how to prepare

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 to pass. The test is based on the Texas Driver Handbook, which you can read for free on the DPS website. You can also read it as a PDF or order a printed copy.

Read the handbook before you take the test. Pay close attention to sections on right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, and what different road signs mean. The test asks practical questions about what you would do in real driving situations, not just definitions. Practice tests are available online through third-party websites, though they are not official DPS materials and may not match the real test exactly.

You will have up to three hours to complete the test, though most people finish in 30 to 45 minutes. The test is given on a computer at DPS offices and most third-party locations. If you have a disability that affects your ability to take a computer-based test, contact your local DPS office before your appointment to ask about accommodations.

What happens if you fail the test

If you do not pass, you can retake the test the same day at most DPS offices and third-party locations. You will have to pay the test fee again. Some locations have a waiting period of 24 hours between attempts, so check with your testing location before you arrive.

You have no limit on how many times you can retake the test. However, if you fail three times, some DPS offices may require you to take a driver education course before you can test again. Call your local DPS office to ask about their policy.

Test fees and payment

The DPS charges a fee to take the written test. The amount varies depending on the type of license you are testing for and whether you are testing at a DPS office or a third-party location. DPS offices typically charge less than third-party testers. Payment methods vary by location; most accept cash, debit, and credit cards, but call ahead to confirm.

If you pass the test, you will pay an additional fee when you get your license. This fee also varies by license type and whether you are getting a standard or Real ID-compliant license. The DPS website lists current fees for your county.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the test in Spanish?

Yes. The Texas written test is available in Spanish at DPS offices and most third-party locations. When you book your appointment, tell the DPS office or testing location that you want to take the test in Spanish. Some third-party locations may not offer Spanish testing, so confirm before you book.

What if I fail the test and want to retake it the next day?

Most DPS offices and third-party locations let you retake the test the same day or the next day. Some have a 24-hour waiting period between attempts. Call your testing location to ask about their policy before your first test date.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card to the test?

No. You only need to know your Social Security number or ITIN. You do not need to bring the card itself. If you do not have a number, tell the DPS staff when you arrive, and they will explain what documents you can use instead.

Can I use my phone or notes during the test?

No. The test is proctored, meaning a staff member watches you take it. You cannot use your phone, notes, or any other materials during the test. You can bring the Texas Driver Handbook to study before your appointment, but you must put it away before the test starts.

What if I have a disability that makes it hard to take a computer test?

Contact your local DPS office before your appointment to ask about accommodations. DPS can provide extra time, a reader, a large-print version, or other adjustments depending on your needs. You will need to provide documentation of your disability.