What you need to bring to the Texas DPS office

To get a Texas learner's permit, you will need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number to your local Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. The DPS accepts a passport, certified birth certificate, or consulate ID as proof of identity. For residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement dated within the last 90 days. Your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return works for proof of your Social Security number.

If you are under 18, you will also need a parent or guardian present with their own ID. Some DPS offices accept appointments, which can save you time — check the office locator on the Texas DPS website to see if yours does. Bring originals or certified copies; photocopies alone will not work.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring original or certified copies of proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number to a Texas DPS office in person.
  • If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present with their own ID.
  • The written test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices from the Texas Driver Handbook, which you can read free online.
  • The permit fee is $16 and the permit is valid for two years, or until you turn 18 if that comes first.
  • Once you have your permit, you must follow Texas restrictions: a licensed adult 21 or older must be in the front seat with you at all times.

The written test and what it covers

The written test has 30 multiple-choice questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You must answer at least 21 questions correctly to pass. The test is based on the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free to read on the Texas DPS website — you do not need to buy a study guide.

The test covers road signs and what they mean, right-of-way rules at intersections and roundabouts, speed limits, parking rules, and what to do if you are pulled over. It also includes questions about impaired driving, distracted driving, and sharing the road with motorcycles and large trucks. You can take the test in English or Spanish. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at most offices, though you may have to pay the fee again.

The vision screening and what happens if you fail

Before you take the written test, the DPS will check your vision. You must be able to see at least 20/40 in each eye with or without glasses or contacts. If you wear corrective lenses, bring them with you — the test will note that your permit requires you to wear them while driving.

If you fail the vision screening, the DPS will not issue your permit that day. You will need to see an eye doctor, get a statement that your vision meets the standard, and return to the DPS office with that letter. Some offices will accept a letter from an optometrist or ophthalmologist; call ahead to confirm what your local office takes.

Permit restrictions and how long your permit lasts

A Texas learner's permit is valid for two years from the date of issue, or until you turn 18, whichever comes first. While you hold the permit, you must follow these restrictions: a licensed driver who is 21 years old or older must be in the front seat with you at all times. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are driving to or from work, school, or a medical appointment.

You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, except to call 911. These rules are the same whether you are on a highway or a quiet street. If you are caught breaking a permit restriction, you can be cited and fined, and the violation may be reported to your insurance company.

How to renew or replace your permit before it expires

If your permit is about to expire and you are not yet ready to take the driving test for a full license, you can renew it at any Texas DPS office. Bring the same documents you brought the first time — proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. You will need to pass the vision screening again, but you do not have to retake the written test. The renewal fee is $16.

If your permit is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement at a DPS office. Bring your proof of identity and residency. The replacement fee is $11. You do not need to retake the written test or vision screening for a replacement.

Moving to Texas or transferring from another state's permit

If you already have a learner's permit from another state, Texas will not transfer it. You must explore for a Texas learner's permit using the same process as a new applicant — bring your documents, pass the vision screening, and take the written test. Your out-of-state permit is not valid in Texas once you become a resident.

If you are moving to Texas and your out-of-state permit is still valid, you have 30 days after you establish residency to get a Texas permit. After 30 days, you cannot drive on your old permit. If you are unsure whether you have established residency, ask the DPS office — they use your address on your documents to determine this.

What to do if you fail the written test

If you do not pass the written test on your first try, you can retake it at most Texas DPS offices the same day. You will likely have to pay the $16 fee again. Between attempts, review the Texas Driver Handbook and focus on the areas where you struggled — the handbook is organized by topic, so you can study specific sections.

Some people find it helpful to take practice tests online before returning to the DPS office. The Texas DPS website does not offer an official practice test, but several free third-party sites offer Texas-specific questions. These are not official, but they follow the same format and cover the same topics as the real test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or by mail?

No. You must take the written test in person at a Texas DPS office. You cannot take it online, by mail, or through a third party. You must also pass the vision screening in person on the same day.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can bring an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring the letter from the IRS that issued your ITIN. If you do not have either, contact your local DPS office to ask what documents they will accept.

Do I have to take driver's education before I get my permit?

No. Texas does not require driver's education to get a learner's permit. However, if you are under 18, you must complete a driver's education course before you can take the driving test for a full license. Some schools offer it; private driving schools also offer it for a fee.

Can someone else pick up my permit for me if I cannot go to the office?

No. You must be present in person to take the vision screening and written test. A parent or guardian can be present with you if you are under 18, but you must be there yourself.

How much does a Texas learner's permit cost?

The permit fee is $16. If you need a replacement, it costs $11. Renewal costs $16. The DPS accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card at most offices.