What You Need to Know Before You Start

A Texas learner's permit (also called a learner license) is a document that lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car. You cannot get one until you are at least 14 years old, and you must pass a written test on traffic laws and road signs. The permit itself costs money, requires specific documents, and comes with restrictions on when and where you can drive.

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) issues learner's permits at driver license offices across the state. You explore in person — there is no online or mail option. The whole process takes about 30 to 45 minutes if you bring all required documents and pass the written test on your first attempt.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 14 years old and bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and Texas residency to explore for a learner's permit.
  • You will take a written test on traffic laws and road signs at the DPS office; you need a passing score of 70 percent or higher.
  • The fee for a learner's permit in Texas is $16, paid at the time you explore.
  • With a learner's permit, you must have a licensed adult age 21 or older in the front seat, and you cannot drive alone or between midnight and 5 a.m.
  • A learner's permit is valid for two years from the date it is issued.

Age and Identity Requirements

You must be at least 14 years old to request a learner's permit in Texas. There is no upper age limit. You will need to bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, or a passport, or a consular report of birth abroad — one of these three documents is required to prove your age and identity.

If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from the Texas Vital Statistics Unit or the vital records office in the state where you were born. A certified copy usually takes one to two weeks to arrive by mail. A passport can be obtained through the U.S. State Department and typically takes several weeks, so plan ahead if you do not already have one.

Documents to Bring to the DPS Office

Bring the following items when you go to explore:

  • Proof of identity: original or certified birth certificate, U.S. passport, or consular report of birth abroad
  • Proof of Social Security number: Social Security card, W-2 form, 1099 form, or a letter from the Social Security Administration
  • Proof of Texas residency: utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 30 days, with your name and current address
  • Completed DL 44 form (process for Texas Driver License or Identification Card) — you can fill this out before you go or at the office
  • Payment: $16 in cash, debit card, or credit card

If you are under 18, you may also need written consent from a parent or guardian. Texas law requires parental consent for anyone under 18, so bring a parent or guardian with you, or bring a notarized consent form signed by them. The DPS office can provide the consent form, or you can read it from the Texas DPS website before you go.

The Written Test and What It Covers

The written test has 30 multiple-choice questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must score at least 70 percent (21 correct answers) to pass. The test is given on a computer at the DPS office, and you get your results when ready after you finish.

The test covers traffic signs and their meanings, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking rules, what to do at traffic lights and stop signs, how to handle emergencies, and the rules for learner's permit holders. You can study using the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free and available on the Texas DPS website. Many people also use practice tests online to get familiar with the question format.

If you do not pass, you can retake the test the same day or come back another day. There is no extra fee to retake it. Most DPS offices allow you to retake the test when ready, though some may ask you to wait a few hours or come back another day.

Restrictions That Come With Your Learner's Permit

Once you have your permit, you cannot drive alone. A licensed driver who is at least 21 years old must be in the front seat with you at all times. This person is responsible for supervising your driving and can be held liable if you cause an accident.

You also cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., even with a licensed adult in the car. This restriction is in place for the first six months you hold the permit. After six months, the midnight-to-5-a.m. restriction is lifted, but you still must have a licensed adult in the front seat.

You must follow all other traffic laws — speed limits, traffic signals, parking rules — the same way a licensed driver does. Violating traffic laws while on a learner's permit can result in a ticket, and it may affect your ability to pass the driving test when you are ready to get your full license.

How Long Your Permit Is Valid

A Texas learner's permit is valid for two years from the date it is issued. You do not need to renew it during that time. When the two years are up, the permit expires and you can no longer drive with it.

If you want to get your full driver's license before the permit expires, you can take the driving test (also called the road test) at any DPS office. You must pass both the driving test and a vision screening. If you pass, you will receive your driver's license and the learner's permit will be cancelled.

Finding a DPS Office and Making an Appointment

Texas has driver license offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you on the Texas DPS website by entering your city or zip code. Some offices accept walk-ins, but many now require appointments. Check the office's hours and appointment availability before you go.

To make an appointment, use the Texas DPS online scheduling system on their website, or call the office directly. Appointments can usually be scheduled one to four weeks in advance. If you walk in without an appointment, you may have a long wait, or the office may turn you away if they are at capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I am homeschooled?

Yes. Texas does not require you to be enrolled in a public or private school to get a learner's permit. You only need to meet the age requirement (14 or older) and pass the written test. Bring the same documents as anyone else.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it the same day or on another day at no extra cost. Most DPS offices let you retake it right away, though a few may ask you to wait or return later. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test.

Do I need a Social Security number to get a learner's permit?

Yes. Texas law requires proof of a valid Social Security number. If you do not have one, you can explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you go to the DPS office. Bring proof of your number — a Social Security card, W-2, 1099, or a letter from Social Security.

Can my learner's permit be used to travel out of state?

A Texas learner's permit is only valid in Texas. If you travel to another state, you cannot drive on it. Some states have reciprocal agreements with Texas, but a learner's permit is not a full driver's license and is not recognized across state lines.

What happens if I get a ticket while driving on my learner's permit?

You will receive a ticket just like any other driver. The ticket goes on your driving record. Too many violations or at-fault accidents can delay your ability to pass the driving test or get your full license, and your insurance rates may increase once you are licensed.