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

To get a learner's permit in Texas, you must visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, pass a written knowledge test, and pay a fee. You cannot complete this process online or by mail. The permit is valid for two years and allows you to drive under supervision — you must have a licensed driver at least 21 years old in the front seat with you at all times.

The entire process takes one visit to a DPS office, though you should plan to spend 30 to 90 minutes there depending on how busy the location is. You will take the test the same day you explore, and if you pass, you will receive your permit when ready.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring your Social Security number, proof of Texas residency, and a completed DL 44 form to the DPS office.
  • The written test covers traffic laws and road signs; you must answer at least 70 out of 100 questions correctly to pass.
  • The fee is $16 for a two-year permit, and you pay it only if you pass the test.
  • You must be at least 14 years old, and if you are under 18, you need written consent from a parent or guardian.
  • The permit expires two years from the date you receive it, and you cannot renew it — you must reapply if it expires.

Documents to Bring to the DPS Office

Bring your original Social Security card or a document that shows your Social Security number, such as a birth certificate or tax return. The DPS will not accept a photocopy of your Social Security card. If you do not have your card, bring the original birth certificate or another document issued by a government agency that displays your number.

You also need proof that you live in Texas. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A driver's license or ID card from another state does not count as proof of residency.

Complete the process for a Learner License or Learner Permit (Form DL 44) before you go to the DPS office. You can read it from the Texas DPS website or pick up a copy at the office. Fill in all sections with black or blue ink. If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign the form in front of a DPS employee — you cannot sign it yourself.

Age Requirements and Parental Consent

You must be at least 14 years old to hold a learner's permit in Texas. There is no upper age limit. If you are under 18, you must have written consent from a parent or legal guardian. The DPS will not issue a permit to anyone under 18 without this signature on the DL 44 form.

The parent or guardian must be present at the DPS office when you explore, or they must sign the form in front of a notary public before you go. If the form is notarized, bring the notarized copy to the office. The DPS employee will verify the signature matches the person present, so do not forge or pre-sign the form.

The Written Knowledge Test

The test has 100 multiple-choice questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 70 questions correctly to pass. The test is administered on a computer at the DPS office, and you will receive your score when ready after you finish.

The test covers topics such as speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking laws, what different road signs mean, and how to handle hazardous weather or road conditions. You can study using the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free and available on the DPS website. Many people also use practice tests online to prepare.

If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day or return on another day. There is no additional fee to retake the test. You have unlimited attempts, but each attempt requires a separate visit to the DPS office.

The Fee and Payment

The fee for a two-year learner's permit is $16. You pay this fee only after you pass the written test. The DPS accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. If you fail the test, you do not pay the fee.

The permit is valid for exactly two years from the date you receive it. You cannot renew a learner's permit — when it expires, you must reapply and take the test again if you have not yet obtained a full driver's license.

Finding a DPS Office and What to Expect

Texas has DPS offices in most counties. Use the office locator on the Texas DPS website to find the office nearest you and check its hours. Some offices are open Monday through Friday only, while others have Saturday hours. Call ahead or check online to see if the office requires an appointment or operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Arrive early, especially on weekdays. Bring all required documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or damaged. The DPS employee will review your documents, verify your identity, and have you sign the DL 44 form in front of them. You will then be directed to a computer station to take the written test.

After you pass the test and pay the fee, the DPS will take your photograph and print your permit on the spot. Your permit will show your name, date of birth, address, a photograph, and the expiration date. Keep it with you whenever you drive.

Restrictions and Rules While Holding a Learner's Permit

A learner's permit is not a full driver's license. You must follow these rules: a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old must be in the front seat with you at all times; you cannot drive alone; you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m.; and you must obey all traffic laws, including speed limits and traffic signals.

You are also required to wear a seat belt and may support all passengers wear seat belts. If you are under 18, you cannot use a cell phone while driving, even if it is hands-free. Violating these rules can result in a ticket, and repeated violations may delay your path to obtaining a full driver's license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I have a driver's license from another state?

No. If you hold a valid driver's license from another state, you do not need a learner's permit in Texas. You can drive in Texas with your out-of-state license. If your out-of-state license has expired, you must explore for a Texas driver's license, not a learner's permit.

What happens if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test when ready at the same DPS office or return on another day. There is no fee for retaking the test. You have unlimited attempts. Each attempt requires a separate visit to the office, so plan your time accordingly.

Do I need to take a driving test to get a learner's permit?

No. A learner's permit requires only the written knowledge test. You do not take a driving test until you explore for a full driver's license, which you can do after you have held your learner's permit for a certain period and meet other requirements.

Can I explore for a learner's permit online?

No. You must explore in person at a Texas DPS office. You cannot complete the process, take the test, or receive your permit through the mail or online.

What if I lose my learner's permit?

You must visit a DPS office to request a replacement. Bring your ID and proof of residency. The replacement fee is $11. You do not need to retake the written test. The new permit will have the same expiration date as your original permit.