What Texas requires before you can get a learner's permit

To get a learner's permit in Texas, you must be at least 15 years old, have a valid form of identification, and pass a written knowledge test on traffic laws and road signs. You do not need to pass a driving test yet — that comes later when you explore for your license. Texas also requires you to complete a driver education course before you can take the knowledge test, unless you are 18 or older.

The process starts at your local Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. You cannot get a learner's permit online or by mail. You must appear in person with your documents, take the written test on the same day, and pay the fee.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 15 years old and complete a driver education course (unless you are 18 or older) before you can take the knowledge test.
  • Bring proof of identity, proof of Texas residency, and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number to the DPS office.
  • The knowledge test covers traffic signs, road rules, and safe driving practices; you must score at least 70 percent to pass.
  • A learner's permit costs $16 and is valid for two years from the date of issue.
  • With a learner's permit, you can only drive when a licensed adult 21 or older is in the front seat next to you.

Documents you must bring to the DPS office

Bring an original or certified copy of one document that proves your identity. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a school ID with a photo, or a state ID from another state. A school report card or library card does not count.

You also need proof that you live in Texas. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or mail from a government agency with your current address will work. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days.

Bring your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. If you do not have either, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration or the IRS stating that you do not have one. You will also need to fill out Form DL-44 (process for Texas Driver License or Learner Permit) at the DPS office.

Driver education course requirements

If you are under 18, you must complete a driver education course before you can take the knowledge test. The course must be approved by the Texas Education Agency or the DPS. Most high schools offer driver education as part of their curriculum, and you can also take a course through a private driving school.

The course covers at least 32 hours of classroom instruction and includes topics like vehicle control, hazard perception, and the effects of alcohol and drugs on driving. After you finish the course, you will receive a certificate of completion. Bring this certificate to the DPS office when you take your test.

If you are 18 or older, you do not need to complete a driver education course. You can go directly to the DPS office, take the knowledge test, and get your learner's permit.

The knowledge test: what to expect and how to prepare

The written test has 30 multiple-choice questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You have 45 minutes to finish. You must answer at least 21 questions correctly (70 percent) to pass. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or come back another day — there is no waiting period between attempts.

The test is given in English, but Spanish versions are also available. You can request a test reader or other accommodations if you have a disability; ask the DPS office about this when you arrive.

To prepare, study the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free and available on the DPS website. The handbook covers all the topics on the test. Many people also use online practice tests to get familiar with the question format.

Fees and permit validity

A learner's permit costs $16. You pay this fee at the DPS office when you pass the knowledge test. The permit is valid for two years from the date it is issued. When your permit expires, you must renew it if you still need it, or you can explore for a driver's license if you are ready.

If your permit is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement at any DPS office for a $10 fee.

Restrictions on driving with a learner's permit

With a learner's permit, you can only drive a passenger vehicle (not a commercial truck or bus). You must have a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old sitting in the front seat next to you at all times. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive other people unless a supervising adult is present.

You also cannot use a cell phone or other wireless device while driving, even if it is hands-free. This rule applies to all drivers under 18 in Texas, but it is especially important to follow while you are learning.

There are no restrictions on the time of day you can drive with a learner's permit, and there is no limit on how long you can hold one. However, if you want to move to a driver's license, you must be at least 16 years old and hold your permit for at least 6 months (or 180 days).

What happens after you get your learner's permit

Once you have your permit, you can start practicing with a supervising driver. Texas does not require a minimum number of practice hours, but the DPS recommends at least 10 hours of supervised driving before you take the road test for your license.

When you are ready to get your driver's license, you will need to pass a road test. You can schedule this test at any DPS office. The road test checks your ability to control the vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond to hazards. You must pass both the road test and a vision screening to get your license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one. If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), bring that instead. You will still be able to get a learner's permit.

What if I fail the knowledge test?

You can retake the test when ready at the same DPS office, or you can come back another day. There is no waiting period and no limit on how many times you can retake it. Each attempt costs $16.

Can I drive on the highway with a learner's permit?

Yes, you can drive on highways with a learner's permit as long as a licensed driver 21 or older is in the front seat with you. There are no speed limit restrictions or time-of-day restrictions for learner's permit holders in Texas.

How long can I keep my learner's permit before I have to get a license?

Your learner's permit is valid for two years. You can hold it for as long as you need, but if you want to get a driver's license, you must be at least 16 years old and have held your permit for at least 6 months.

Do I need to take driver education if I am 18 or older?

No. If you are 18 or older, you can skip driver education and go straight to the DPS office to take the knowledge test and get your learner's permit. You still need to pass the test and bring the required documents.