What You Need to Do to Get a Texas Learner's Permit

To get a learner's permit in Texas, you visit your local Department of Public Safety (DPS) office with proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number, pass a written knowledge test, and pay a fee. The whole process usually takes one visit and costs around $16 for a permit valid for two years. You do not need a parent or guardian present if you are 18 or older, but if you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your process in person.

Texas issues learner's permits to people aged 15 and older. The age you are when you explore determines which rules explore to you while you hold the permit — younger permit holders have stricter driving restrictions than those 18 and up.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a state ID or passport, and proof of your current address to your DPS office.
  • The written test covers Texas traffic laws and safe driving practices, and you must score at least 70 percent to pass.
  • If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present and sign your process form in person.
  • Your learner's permit is valid for two years from the date of issue and costs $16 in most cases.
  • With a learner's permit, you can only drive when a licensed adult 21 or older is in the front seat next to you.

Documents You Must Bring to the DPS Office

Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate. A photocopy is not acceptable. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or permanent resident card instead.

Bring proof of identity. A state ID, passport, or school ID with your photo works. If you do not have any of these, bring a combination of documents like a Social Security card, library card, or utility bill with your name on it.

Bring proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and address dated within the last 60 days works. A piece of mail from a government agency also counts.

Bring your Social Security number or a Social Security card. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one.

The Written Knowledge Test

The test has 30 multiple-choice questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You have 30 minutes to complete it. You must answer at least 21 questions correctly — a score of 70 percent — to pass.

The DPS office provides study materials for free on the Texas DPS website. You can also buy study guides at bookstores or use online practice tests. Most people study for a few hours to a few days before taking the test. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another day at no extra charge.

The test is offered in English and Spanish. If English is not your first language, you can request a Spanish-language test when you arrive at the office.

Age Requirements and Parental Consent

You must be at least 15 years old to get a learner's permit in Texas. If you are 15 or 16, a parent or legal guardian must come to the DPS office with you and sign your process in person. They will need to bring their own ID.

If you are 17 or 18, you can explore without a parent or guardian present, though you still need to bring your own documents. If you are 18 or older, you have no age restrictions on your permit and can drive alone once you pass your driving test and get your license.

The Cost and How Long Your Permit Lasts

A learner's permit costs $16 in Texas and is valid for two years from the date you receive it. If your permit expires before you pass your driving test and get your license, you can renew it at a DPS office for another $16.

Some DPS offices may charge a small additional fee for certain services, such as a duplicate permit if you lose yours. Check with your local office for exact fees, as they can vary slightly.

Restrictions While You Hold a Learner's Permit

With a learner's permit, you can only drive when a licensed driver who is 21 years old or older is sitting in the front seat next to you. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive with only teenage passengers.

If you are under 18, you also cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., even with a licensed adult in the car. You must follow all traffic laws, including speed limits and traffic signals. Any traffic violation while you hold a permit can delay your ability to get your license.

You must carry your learner's permit with you whenever you drive. If you are stopped by police and do not have it, you can be cited.

Finding Your Local DPS Office and Scheduling

You can find your nearest DPS office on the Texas DPS website by entering your zip code. Most offices accept walk-ins, but some require you to schedule an appointment in advance. Call ahead or check the office's hours online before you go, especially if you are traveling a long distance.

Offices are typically busier on weekends and after school hours, so going on a weekday morning may mean a shorter wait. Bring all your documents in one trip — if you are missing even one required document, the office will not process your process and you will have to return another day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I have a suspended or revoked license?

No. If your license has been suspended or revoked in Texas or any other state, you cannot get a learner's permit until the suspension or revocation is lifted. You will need to resolve the underlying issue first, which may involve paying fines, completing a defensive driving course, or waiting out a suspension period.

What happens if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test when ready at the same DPS office at no extra charge. Most people pass on their second attempt after studying the material they missed. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test.

Do I need a Social Security number to get a learner's permit?

You need either a Social Security number or a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you are not may be able to access for one. If you do not have a number, contact the Social Security Administration before you go to the DPS office to get the letter.

Can I use a school ID as my proof of identity?

A school ID with your photo can work as one form of identity, but the DPS office may ask for additional documents to verify your identity. Bring your school ID plus another document like a birth certificate or passport to be safe.

How long does the whole process take at the DPS office?

The entire visit usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is. The written test itself takes about 30 minutes, and paperwork and payment take another 15 to 30 minutes. Arriving early in the day typically means shorter wait times.