The documents and age you need to start

To get a Texas learner's permit, you must be at least 15 years old and bring five specific documents to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. The state calls this the REAL ID package, and you cannot skip any of it.

You need: proof of identity (a birth certificate, passport, or consular report of birth), proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099), proof of Texas residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 90 days), proof of a completed driver education course (the certificate from an approved provider), and a completed DL-44 form (the process, which you can fill out before you go or at the office).

If you are under 18, you also need a parent or legal guardian to sign the process in person. They will need to bring their own ID.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 15 years old and have completed a driver education course before you can get a learner's permit in Texas.
  • Bring your birth certificate or passport, Social Security card, proof of Texas residency, and your driver education certificate to the DPS office.
  • If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must come with you and sign the process in person.
  • The DPS office will give you a written test on traffic laws and road signs; you must score at least 70 percent to pass.
  • Your learner's permit is valid for two years from the date it is issued.

Where to take the written test

You take the written test at a DPS office on the day you explore. The test covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You answer 30 multiple-choice questions on a computer or on paper, depending on the office. You need a score of at least 70 percent to pass, which means you can miss no more than 9 questions.

The test takes about 30 minutes. If you do not pass, you can retake it the same day or come back another day at no extra cost. Most people pass on the first try if they study the Texas Driver Handbook, which the DPS provides free online and in print at any DPS office.

What happens after you pass

Once you pass the written test, the DPS office will take your photo and issue your learner's permit on the spot. Your permit is valid for two years from the date it is issued. The permit costs $16 and is non-refundable if you do not use it.

Your learner's permit allows you to drive only when a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old is sitting next to you in the front seat. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. These rules stay in place until you pass your road test and get your Class C driver's license.

Driver education requirements before you explore

Texas requires you to complete a driver education course before you can get a learner's permit. The course is usually taught in high school, but you can also take it through a private driving school. The course covers classroom instruction (about 30 hours) and behind-the-wheel training (about 10 hours with an instructor).

When you finish the course, the school or driving instructor will give you a certificate of completion. Bring this certificate to the DPS office when you explore for your permit. If you are homeschooled or did not take driver education in high school, you must find a private provider. The Texas DPS website lists approved providers by county.

Fees and what to bring on the day you explore

The learner's permit costs $16. You pay this fee at the DPS office when you explore. Bring the five documents listed above, your completed DL-44 form (or be ready to fill it out there), and your driver education certificate. Bring your parent or guardian if you are under 18.

The DPS office is open Monday through Friday, usually from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours vary by location. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations now use an online reservation system. Check the DPS website for your local office's hours and whether you should reserve a time slot.

Renewing or replacing your permit

Your learner's permit is valid for two years. If it expires before you pass your road test and get your license, you can renew it at any DPS office. Bring your expired permit, your ID, and proof of residency. The renewal costs $16.

If your permit is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement at any DPS office. Bring your ID and proof of residency. A replacement permit costs $16. You do not have to retake the written test.

What disqualifies you from getting a permit

The DPS will not issue a learner's permit if you have an active driver's license suspension or revocation in Texas or any other state. You also cannot get a permit if you have been convicted of certain crimes, including driving under the influence or leaving the scene of an accident.

If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive safely, the DPS may require a doctor's statement or a special driving test before issuing your permit. If you are not sure whether something in your record will disqualify you, call your local DPS office or visit the DPS website before you go in.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. You still need to complete a driver education course through a private provider. The Texas DPS website lists approved driving schools by county. Once you finish the course and get your certificate, you can explore for your permit just like any other student.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it the same day or come back another day. There is no extra charge. Most DPS offices let you retake the test when ready if you want to. Study the Texas Driver Handbook before your next attempt — it covers everything on the test.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I bring something else?

You can bring your Social Security card, a W-2, a 1099, or a tax return that shows your Social Security number. The DPS accepts any of these as proof of your number. You do not have to bring the original card.

Can my permit be used in other states?

A Texas learner's permit is recognized in most other states, but the rules for who can supervise you may differ. Before you drive out of state, check the rules in that state. Some states require the supervising driver to be a certain age or relationship to you.

What if I turn 18 before I get my license?

You can still use your learner's permit and take your road test. Once you turn 18, you no longer need a parent or guardian to sign your process or supervise you while you drive. You can take your road test whenever you are ready.