The cost of a learner's permit in Texas is $16, and that price is the same whether you're in Houston or anywhere else in the state.

The $16 fee covers the written knowledge test and the permit itself. You pay it once when you pass the test at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. There are no additional hidden fees, no county surcharges, and no difference based on where you live — Houston residents pay exactly what someone in Dallas or San Antonio pays.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it, but you'll pay the $16 fee again for each attempt. Most people pass on the first try, especially if they study the Texas Driver Handbook beforehand, which is free to read from the DPS website.

Key Takeaways

  • A learner's permit in Texas costs $16 total, paid at the DPS office when you pass the written test.
  • The fee covers both the knowledge test and the permit card itself — there are no separate charges.
  • If you fail the test, you pay $16 again to retake it; there is no discount for retests.
  • You must be at least 14 years old and bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and Texas residency to get your permit.
  • Your learner's permit is valid for two years from the date you receive it.

What documents you need to bring to the DPS office

Bring your original birth certificate or passport (proof of identity), your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, and proof of Texas residency. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, school enrollment letter, or a letter from a government agency — it must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 30 days.

If you're under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present. Bring their ID as well. If your guardian is not your parent, bring legal documentation showing guardianship.

You do not need to bring money for the $16 fee in advance — the DPS office will collect it after you pass the written test. They accept cash and card payments.

Where to take the test in the Houston area

The Houston area has multiple DPS offices where you can take your learner's permit test. The main office is at 4007 Director Beltway, Houston, TX 77092. Other locations include offices in Pasadena, Pearland, and The Woodlands, among others. Each office handles written tests during specific hours — most are open weekdays and some Saturday mornings, but hours vary by location.

You do not need an appointment for the written test at most Houston-area DPS offices, but wait times can be long during peak hours (typically mid-morning and early afternoon on weekdays). Going early in the morning or on a weekday afternoon often means a shorter wait. Call ahead to confirm current hours for the office nearest you, as DPS schedules change seasonally.

How long your permit lasts and what happens when it expires

Your learner's permit is valid for two years from the date you receive it. During those two years, you can practice driving with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old and sitting in the front passenger seat. You must follow all learner's permit restrictions, including no driving between midnight and 5 a.m. and no use of a cell phone while driving.

If your permit expires before you pass the road test and get your driver's license, you will need to retake the written test and pay the $16 fee again. This is why it's important to schedule your road test well before your permit expires — you can take the road test up to 30 days before your permit expires, and if you pass, your license will be issued even after the permit itself has expired.

Retaking the written test if you don't pass

If you don't pass the written test on your first attempt, you can retake it the same day at most DPS offices, or you can come back another day. Either way, you pay the $16 fee again. There is no waiting period between attempts, and there is no reduced fee for retakes.

The written test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 21 correctly to pass (a score of 70 percent or higher). Most people who study the Texas Driver Handbook pass on the first try. The handbook is free and covers road signs, traffic laws, safe driving practices, and what to expect during the road test.

What happens after you pass and get your permit

After you pass the written test and pay the $16 fee, you'll receive your learner's permit card on the spot. The card shows your name, date of birth, address, and a photo. You must carry it with you every time you drive.

Your next step is to practice driving and then schedule your road test. You must hold your learner's permit for at least 30 days before you can take the road test — this is a state requirement, not something that varies by county or city. After 30 days, you can book your road test through the DPS website or by calling your local DPS office. The road test costs $7.50 and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe driving decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online instead of going to a DPS office?

No. Texas requires you to take the written test in person at a DPS office. You cannot take it online, at a school, or through a third party. You must go to a DPS office, pass the test, and pay the $16 fee there.

Do I have to pay the $16 fee if I fail the test?

No. You only pay the $16 fee after you pass the written test. If you fail, you don't pay anything that day. When you retake the test and pass, you pay $16 at that time.

Is the $16 fee the same for everyone, or does it cost more if I'm over 18?

The fee is $16 for everyone, regardless of age. Texas charges the same amount whether you're 14 or 40. Age does not affect the cost of the learner's permit.

What if I lose my permit card before I take the road test?

You can get a replacement at any DPS office. The replacement fee is $11. Bring your ID and proof of residency, and you'll receive a new card. You do not have to retake the written test.

Can I use my learner's permit to drive in other states?

A Texas learner's permit is only valid in Texas. If you travel to another state, you cannot drive on your Texas permit. You must have a valid driver's license from your home state or an international driving permit to drive in other states.