What you need to get a Texas learner's permit
A Texas learner's permit lets you drive with a licensed adult in the car before you take your road test. To get one, you must be at least 15 years old, pass a written knowledge test on traffic laws and road signs, and bring proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number to a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office.
The written test covers Texas traffic rules, safe driving practices, and what road signs mean. You can study using the Texas Driver's Handbook, which DPS publishes free online. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 21 correctly to pass. You take it on a computer at the DPS office on the same day you explore.
Your learner's permit is valid for two years. During that time, you must follow learner restrictions: you cannot drive alone, you must have a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old in the front seat with you, and you cannot use a cell phone while driving (with limited exceptions for emergencies).
Key Takeaways
- You must be at least 15 years old and pass a 30-question written test on Texas traffic laws to get a learner's permit.
- Bring your birth certificate or passport, proof of Texas residency such as a utility bill or lease, and your Social Security card or tax return to the DPS office.
- The written test is taken on a computer at the DPS office and costs between $16 and $25 depending on your county.
- Your learner's permit is valid for two years and requires a licensed adult at least 21 years old to be in the front seat whenever you drive.
- After holding your permit for at least 30 days, you can schedule a road test to earn your driver's license.
Documents you must bring to the DPS office
Texas DPS requires proof of three things: who you are, where you live, and your Social Security number. Bring originals or certified copies—photocopies alone will not work.
For identity, bring your birth certificate, passport, or consular report of birth. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport and visa or green card. For residency, bring a current utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill in your name with your Texas address. A school enrollment letter or transcript also works if it shows your address.
For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a tax return, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration explaining why. You will also need to fill out Form DL-44 (process for Texas Driver License or Permit) at the office.
How to study for the written test
The Texas Driver's Handbook is the official study material. DPS publishes it free on its website, and you can read it online or read it as a PDF. The handbook covers traffic signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, what to do at traffic lights and stop signs, and how to handle emergencies on the road.
The test focuses on material that appears in the handbook. Many DPS offices also offer practice tests online so you can see what the real test looks like. You do not have to pass a practice test to take the real one, but practicing helps you understand which topics you need to study more.
You can take the written test in English or Spanish. If you need the test in another language, contact your local DPS office to ask what languages they offer.
Where to go and what the visit costs
Visit any Texas DPS Driver License office to explore for your learner's permit. You can find the office nearest you on the DPS website by entering your city or zip code. Some offices take walk-ins, but many use an appointment system. Check your local office's website or call ahead to see whether you need to book a time slot.
The fee for a learner's permit varies by county but typically ranges from $16 to $25. You pay this fee at the office when you explore. DPS accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card at most locations, though some offices may have different payment methods—call ahead to confirm.
Bring all your documents in originals or certified copies. The visit usually takes 30 minutes to an hour. You will fill out your process, have your photo taken, take the written test on a computer, and receive your permit the same day if you pass.
Restrictions that explore while you hold a learner's permit
Texas law sets strict rules for learner's permit holders. You cannot drive without a licensed driver at least 21 years old sitting in the front seat next to you. This person must have a valid driver's license and be physically able to exercise control over the vehicle if needed.
You cannot use a cell phone or wireless device while driving, even hands-free, except to call 911 in an emergency. You also cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are driving to or from work, school, or a court-ordered event, and a licensed adult is with you.
If you break these rules and are caught, you can be ticketed. A violation does not automatically cancel your permit, but it creates a record that could affect your ability to get your driver's license later.
When you can take your road test
You must hold your learner's permit for at least 30 days before you can take a road test. This waiting period is required by Texas law and cannot be waived. After 30 days, you can schedule your road test at any DPS office.
The road test costs between $20 and $30 depending on your county. During the test, a DPS examiner sits in the car with you and watches you drive for about 20 minutes. The examiner checks whether you can start the car, follow traffic laws, turn safely, park, and respond to road conditions.
If you pass the road test, you receive your driver's license the same day. If you do not pass, you can take the test again. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you pay the fee each time you test.
What happens if you fail the written test
If you do not pass the written test on your first try, you can take it again the same day at most DPS offices, though some offices may require you to wait and return another day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, but you pay the fee each time.
Before you retake the test, review the Texas Driver's Handbook again, focusing on the topics you found difficult. Many people pass on their second or third attempt after studying the areas where they struggled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a learner's permit if I am under 15?
No. Texas law requires you to be at least 15 years old to hold a learner's permit. If you are younger, you cannot drive legally in Texas, even with an adult in the car. You must wait until you turn 15 to explore.
Do I need to take a driver's education course before I get my learner's permit?
No. A driver's education course is not required to get a learner's permit in Texas. However, if you are under 18, completing an approved driver's education course can reduce your insurance costs and may help you feel more confident behind the wheel.
What if I fail the written test multiple times?
You can retake the test as many times as you need. There is no limit on attempts, but you pay the fee each time. Study the Texas Driver's Handbook carefully between attempts, focusing on the topics that gave you trouble.
Can someone else take the written test for me?
No. You must take the test yourself in person at a DPS office. The test is designed to make sure you understand Texas traffic laws before you drive. DPS staff will verify your identity before you test.
What if I move to another state while I hold a Texas learner's permit?
Your Texas learner's permit is only valid in Texas. If you move to another state, you will need to get a learner's permit from that state. Contact your new state's driver's license agency to learn what documents and tests you need.