Texas does not offer the written knowledge test online

You cannot take the Texas written driver license test from your computer or phone. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) requires you to take the test in person at a DPS office or an approved testing location. This applies whether you are a new driver, renewing after a lapse, or upgrading your license class.

The test must be administered by a DPS employee or an authorized third-party testing provider who can verify your identity and may support test security. Online testing is not available for any license type or renewal category in Texas.

Key Takeaways

  • You must take the written test at a DPS office or an approved third-party testing location; online testing is not an option in Texas.
  • You can schedule your test appointment in advance through the DPS website or by calling your local DPS office to reduce wait times.
  • Bring a valid form of identification and proof of residency to your test appointment, or your test will be cancelled.
  • The test covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices from the Texas Driver Handbook, which you can read free online before you go.
  • You have three attempts to pass the test within a 12-month period; if you fail all three, you must wait one year before retesting.

Where to take the test in Texas

The Texas Department of Public Safety operates testing locations in every county. You can find the DPS office nearest you by visiting the DPS website and using their office locator tool, or by calling the main DPS number to ask for your local office address and hours.

Third-party testing providers also administer the written test in some areas. These are private businesses licensed by DPS to give the test. They charge a fee in addition to the DPS test fee—typically $5 to $10 extra—but may have more flexible hours or shorter wait times than DPS offices. You can ask your local DPS office which third-party providers operate in your area.

How to schedule your test appointment

You can schedule your written test appointment online through the DPS website or by phone. Online scheduling is faster and lets you pick a specific date and time. To schedule online, go to the DPS website, select your county, and choose an available time slot. You will receive a confirmation number and a reminder email or text message.

If you prefer to call, contact your local DPS office directly. Have your driver's license number or ID number ready. Walk-ins are accepted at most DPS offices, but you may wait several hours, especially during peak times like lunch or late afternoon. Scheduling ahead is the most reliable way to control your wait time.

Documents you must bring to your test

You must bring a valid form of identification and proof of Texas residency. Acceptable forms of ID include a current or expired Texas driver license, a Texas ID card, a U.S. passport, a military ID, or a tribal ID. If you do not have one of these, ask your DPS office which other documents they will accept.

For proof of residency, bring a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and current Texas address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, a lease agreement, a bank statement, a government check, or a property tax bill. A copy is acceptable. If you cannot provide both documents, your test appointment will be cancelled and you will lose any fee you paid.

What the test covers and how to prepare

The Texas written test has 30 multiple-choice questions. You must answer at least 21 questions correctly to pass. The test covers traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, parking rules, and safe driving practices. All questions come from the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free to read online at the DPS website.

Study the handbook before your test. Focus on the sections on traffic signs, speed limits, right-of-way, and what to do at traffic lights and stop signs. Many test questions ask about specific situations—for example, what you must do when you see a red octagon sign, or who has the right of way at a four-way stop. The handbook explains these rules with examples. You can also take practice tests on the DPS website to see what kinds of questions appear on the real test.

Test fees and what happens if you fail

The DPS written test fee is $10. If you test at a third-party provider, you will pay the $10 DPS fee plus the provider's fee. Payment is due at the time of your test. Most locations accept cash and card.

You have three attempts to pass the test within a 12-month period. If you fail, you can retake the test after one business day. If you fail all three attempts within 12 months, you must wait one full year from the date of your first failed attempt before you can test again. Keep track of your test dates so you know when you are may be able to access to retake the test.

What happens after you pass

When you pass the written test, you will receive a passing score notice. You will need this notice to schedule your driving test (the road test) or to complete your license process at the DPS office. The notice is valid for a limited time—usually 12 months—so do not delay scheduling your next step.

If you are explore for a license for the first time, you must pass the written test before you can take the driving test. If you are renewing a license that has been expired for more than two years, you may also need to retake the written test. Ask the DPS office staff whether you need to take the test based on your specific situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the Texas written test on my phone or computer at home?

No. Texas does not offer online testing for the written driver license test. You must go to a DPS office or an approved testing location in person. The test must be given by a DPS employee or an authorized third-party provider.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test after one business day. You have three attempts within 12 months. If you fail all three, you must wait one full year from your first failed attempt before you can test again. Each retake costs $10.

Do I need to schedule an appointment or can I just walk in?

You can do either. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait several hours. Scheduling online or by phone is faster and lets you choose your time slot. Most DPS offices have appointment slots available within a few days.

What if I lose my passing score notice?

Contact your local DPS office and ask for a duplicate. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, and driver's license number. There may be a small fee for a duplicate notice, or it may be free—ask your office.

Can someone else take the test for me?

No. You must take the test yourself. The test administrator will check your ID to confirm you are the person taking the test. Impersonation is illegal and will result in criminal charges.