What You Need to Do to Get a Texas Learner's Permit
To get a learner's permit in Texas, you must be at least 14 years old, pass a written knowledge test at a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, and provide proof of identity and residency. The process takes about an hour and costs $16. You do not need to have a driver yet — the permit itself is what lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car.
Texas issues two types of learner's permits: a regular permit for drivers 14 and older, and a restricted permit for 14-year-olds who want to drive to school or work. Both require the same documents and test. The main difference is when you can drive and who must be with you.
Key Takeaways
- You must be at least 14 years old and bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and Texas residency to a DPS office.
- The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices from the Texas Driver Handbook, which you can read free online.
- You need a licensed adult (at least 21 years old) in the front seat with you every time you drive on a learner's permit.
- A learner's permit is valid for two years and costs $16; you can renew it once before you must take the test again.
- You cannot drive alone, at night (between midnight and 5 a.m.), or on highways until you pass your road test and get a provisional license.
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 — a 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 sign a form stating that.
For proof of Texas residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or school enrollment letter dated within the last 90 days. Your name must appear on the document. If you live with a parent or guardian and your name is not on the utility bill, bring a notarized affidavit from the person whose name is on it, plus their ID.
Bring the original documents, not copies, except for the birth certificate (which can be certified). The DPS office will not accept photos or digital copies. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your process in person.
The Written Knowledge Test: What to Expect
The 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 covers material from the Texas Driver Handbook, which you can read free from the DPS website or pick up at any DPS office.
The test is given on a computer at the DPS office. You can take it in English or Spanish. There is no time limit, though most people finish in 20 to 30 minutes. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at no extra cost, but you must wait at least one hour between attempts.
The handbook covers stopping distance, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, seat belt laws, and what different road signs mean. It also explains the rules for learner's permit holders — when you can drive, who must be with you, and what happens if you break the rules. Reading the handbook before you go is the best way to prepare.
Restrictions on Your Learner's Permit
With a learner's permit, you can only drive when a licensed adult who is 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 under any circumstances.
You also cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot drive on interstate highways. If you are under 18, you cannot use a cell phone while driving — not even hands-free — except to call 911. You must wear a seat belt, and all passengers must wear seat belts too.
These rules stay in place until you pass your road test and receive a provisional license. Breaking them can result in a ticket, a fine, or suspension of your permit.
How Long Your Permit Is Valid and How to Renew It
A learner's permit is valid for two years from the date it is issued. You can renew it once without taking the written test again — just return to a DPS office with your permit and pay the $16 renewal fee. The renewal takes about 15 minutes.
If you do not renew before it expires, or if you renew twice and it expires again, you must take the written test a second time to get a new permit. You cannot hold a learner's permit after you turn 18 — at that point, you must pass your road test to get a regular license, or your permit becomes invalid.
What Happens After You Pass the Written Test
Once you pass, the DPS office will issue your permit on the spot. Your permit is a plastic card with your photo, name, date of birth, and permit number. Keep it with you every time you drive.
You can now start practicing with a licensed adult. Most people practice for several weeks or months before taking the road test. There is no minimum practice time required by law, but the more you practice, the more confident you will be on the test.
When you feel ready, you can schedule your road test at a DPS office. The road test costs $7.50 and takes about 30 minutes. You must bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be driving during the test.
Finding a DPS Office Near You and What to Bring
You can find the DPS office nearest you on the Texas DPS website. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, though some have extended hours. You do not need an appointment — most offices work on a first-come, first-served basis, but wait times vary.
Call ahead or check the website to see if your local office is currently accepting walk-ins, as some have limited capacity. Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost. Arrive early if possible, as afternoons tend to be busier.
If you cannot get to an office during regular hours, some DPS offices offer evening or Saturday hours. Check the website for your county to see what is available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be in school to get a learner's permit?
No. You do not need to be enrolled in school or have a high school diploma. You only need to be at least 14 years old, pass the written test, and bring the required documents.
Can I get a learner's permit if I do not have a Social Security number?
Yes. You can still get a permit, but you must sign a form at the DPS office stating that you do not have a Social Security number. Bring your other identity documents as usual.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake it the same day at no extra cost, but you must wait at least one hour. You can retake it as many times as you need. There is no limit on how many times you can test.
Can I drive my parents' car to practice?
Yes, as long as the car is insured and registered. Your parent or guardian must be in the front seat with you. The car does not have to be registered in your name.
What happens if I get a ticket while driving on my learner's permit?
You will receive a citation just like any other driver. Depending on the violation, you may face a fine, points on your record, or suspension of your permit. Breaking learner's permit restrictions (like driving alone or at night) can result in a ticket.