What you need to know before you start
A Texas learner's permit (also called a learner license) lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car, but it is not a full driver's license. You must be at least 15 years old and pass a written test on traffic laws and road signs. The permit is valid for two years, and you will need it before you can take your road test for a full license.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) issues learner's permits through driver license offices across the state. You cannot get one online — you must go in person with the right documents and pass the written exam on the same day.
Key Takeaways
- You must be at least 15 years old and bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and Texas residency to a DPS driver license office.
- The written test covers 46 questions about Texas traffic laws and road signs, and you must answer at least 38 correctly to pass.
- You will pay a fee at the time you test; the amount depends on the type of permit and how long you want it valid.
- Once you have your permit, you must have a licensed adult at least 21 years old in the front seat whenever you drive.
- Your learner's permit is valid for two years, and you can take your road test anytime after you have held it for at least 30 days.
Documents you must bring to the DPS office
Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or consular report of birth. You also need proof of your Social Security number — your Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form all work. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a permit, but you will need to fill out an affidavit at the DPS office.
You must also prove you live in Texas. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or school enrollment letter dated within the last 90 days will work. If you live with a parent or guardian, bring their ID as well — the DPS may ask them to sign a form confirming your residency.
Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or visa. The DPS office will not accept a photocopy of your birth certificate unless it is certified by the vital records office that issued it.
The written test: what to expect
The written test has 46 questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You have 30 minutes to finish. The questions come from the Texas Driver Handbook, which you can read online for free at the DPS website or pick up at any driver license office.
You must answer at least 38 questions correctly (about 83 percent) to pass. If you fail, you can take the test again the same day at most offices, though some may ask you to come back another time. There is an additional fee each time you retake the test.
The test is offered in English and Spanish. You can also request a test in other languages, but you may need to schedule that in advance — call your local DPS office to ask.
Fees and how long your permit lasts
The cost of a learner's permit in Texas varies depending on how long you want it valid. A permit valid for one year costs less than one valid for two years. You pay the fee when you pass the test, and the DPS office will give you your permit on the spot.
Your learner's permit is valid for two years from the date it is issued. You can take your road test anytime after you have held the permit for at least 30 days, but you do not have to wait the full two years. If your permit expires before you pass your road test, you will need to renew it and pay the fee again.
Rules for driving with your learner's permit
With a learner's permit, you can only drive when a licensed adult at least 21 years old is sitting in the front seat next to you. That adult must have a valid driver's license. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive with only teenage passengers.
You must follow all traffic laws and speed limits. Some restrictions explore depending on your age — for example, if you are under 18, you cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free. You must also wear your seatbelt and make sure all passengers wear theirs.
Your learner's permit does not let you drive on highways or freeways in some cases. Check with your local DPS office about any local rules, as they can vary by county.
When you are ready to take your road test
You can take your road test anytime after you have held your learner's permit for at least 30 days. You must schedule the test in advance through the DPS — you cannot just show up at an office. You can book your test online at the DPS website or by calling your local driver license office.
On the day of your road test, bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be driving. The examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks like parking, turning, and stopping. The test usually takes 20 to 30 minutes.
If you pass, you will get your full driver's license on the spot. If you fail, you can take the test again, but you will need to schedule another appointment and pay the test fee again.
What happens if you lose your permit or it gets damaged
If your learner's permit is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement at any DPS driver license office. Bring your ID and proof of residency, just as you did when you first got your permit. You will pay a replacement fee, which is less than the original permit fee.
If your permit is damaged but still readable, you can use it until it expires. You do not have to replace it right away unless the DPS office tells you it is no longer valid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my learner's permit if I am homeschooled?
Yes. You do not need to be enrolled in a public or private school. You can use a homeschool transcript, letter from your parent confirming your enrollment in a homeschool program, or other proof of education. Bring whatever documentation you have to the DPS office.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake the test the same day at most DPS offices, though some may ask you to return another time. You will pay the test fee again. Most people pass on their second or third try if they study the Texas Driver Handbook before coming back.
Do I need to take a driver education course before I get my learner's permit?
No. A driver education course is not required to get a learner's permit in Texas. However, if you are under 18, you must complete a driver education course and hold your learner's permit for at least 30 days before you can take your road test for a full license.
Can someone from another country get a Texas learner's permit?
Yes, if you have a valid passport or visa and proof of Texas residency. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen. Bring your passport or visa along with the other required documents to a DPS driver license office.
How much does a learner's permit cost?
The fee varies depending on how long you want your permit valid. A one-year permit costs less than a two-year permit. Call your local DPS driver license office or check the DPS website for the exact current fee in your area.