What you need to do to get a Texas driver's license

To get a Texas driver's license, you visit a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, pass a written test on traffic laws, pass a driving test, and provide documents that prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. The whole process takes one visit if you pass both tests, though you may need to return for the driving test on a separate day depending on the office's schedule. Texas does not issue licenses by mail or online.

You must be at least 16 years old to explore. If you are 16 or 17, you need a parent or legal guardian to sign your process in person. If you are 18 or older, you can explore alone.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DPS office in person with original documents proving your identity, Texas residency, and Social Security number.
  • The written test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the official DPS handbook available free online.
  • The driving test checks basic vehicle control and your ability to follow traffic laws on public roads.
  • Processing takes about 7 to 10 business days after you pass both tests; DPS mails your license to the address on your process.
  • If you fail either test, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment, depending on the office.

Documents you must bring to the DPS office

Bring one document that proves your identity and one that proves you live in Texas. Identity documents include a U.S. passport, passport card, certified birth certificate, military ID, or foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa. If you use a birth certificate, it must be a certified copy with a raised seal—a photocopy does not count.

For Texas residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill in your name. The document must show your current address and be dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement or insurance bill also works if it shows your name and address.

You also need to provide your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return as proof. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a license, but you must complete additional steps at the DPS office.

If you are under 18, your parent or legal guardian must bring a document proving their identity and sign the process in front of a DPS employee. They do not need to bring a residency document.

The written test: what it covers and how to prepare

The written test has 30 multiple-choice questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 21 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and Spanish, and DPS provides large-print and audio versions if you request them.

Study using the official Texas Driver Handbook, which DPS publishes free online at the DPS website. The handbook covers everything on the test: speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking laws, what different road signs mean, and how to handle emergencies. Read it at least once before you go to the DPS office. Many people also study using practice tests available free on the DPS website.

You have 30 minutes to complete the test. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at most offices, though some may ask you to schedule another appointment. There is no fee to retake the test.

The driving test: what the examiner watches for

The driving test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. The examiner sits in your vehicle and watches you perform basic driving tasks: starting the engine, turning, stopping, backing up, and parking. They also watch how you handle traffic, obey speed limits, use turn signals, and respond to other drivers and pedestrians.

You must use a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle's lights, brakes, wipers, horn, and mirrors must all work. Bring proof of insurance and vehicle registration. If you use someone else's vehicle, they do not need to be present, but the vehicle must be registered to someone.

If you fail the driving test, you can retake it at your next appointment. There is no fee to retake it. Most DPS offices schedule driving tests on specific days, so you may need to wait a few days or weeks for another opening.

Fees and how long the process takes

A Texas driver's license costs $16 for a four-year license if you are under 85 years old. You pay this fee at the DPS office when you explore. DPS accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card.

After you pass both tests, DPS processes your process and mails your license to the address you provided. This takes about 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license at the DPS office that you can use while you wait for the plastic card to arrive.

If you need your license faster, you can request a duplicate at any DPS office and pay an additional fee, though this is rarely necessary since the temporary license is valid for driving.

Finding a DPS office and scheduling your appointment

Texas has DPS driver license offices in most cities and towns. Find the office nearest you on the DPS website by entering your city or zip code. The website shows office hours, which vary by location—some are open Monday through Friday, while others have Saturday hours.

You can walk in without an appointment at most offices, but wait times vary. During busy times, you may wait one to three hours. To avoid a long wait, schedule an appointment online through the DPS website. Appointments are usually available within a few days to a week, depending on the office.

Some offices are busier than others. If your local office has a long wait, try an office in a nearby town. You can get your license at any DPS office in Texas, not just the one closest to your home.

What happens if you fail a test or need to reschedule

If you fail the written test, most DPS offices let you retake it the same day at no charge. If you fail the driving test, you must schedule another appointment because the examiner needs to be available. Retaking the driving test is free, but you must return to the DPS office on a day when driving tests are offered.

If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, do so through the DPS website or by calling the office directly. Canceling online is usually faster. If you miss an appointment without canceling, you may have to wait longer for the next available slot.

There is no limit to how many times you can retake either test. Some people pass on the first try; others take the written test two or three times. This is normal and does not affect your record.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Texas driver's license if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. If you do not have a Social Security number, tell the DPS employee when you arrive. You will need to complete an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) process or provide other proof of identity. The DPS office can explain what documents you need and may be able to help you complete the process on the same day.

What if I am a teenager and my parent cannot come with me?

Your parent or legal guardian must be present in person to sign your process if you are under 18. You cannot get a license without their signature. If your guardian cannot visit the DPS office, you will need to wait until they can go with you.

Do I need to pass the written test before the driving test?

Yes. You must pass the written test first. Most DPS offices give you the written test when you arrive, and if you pass, they schedule your driving test for the same day or a later appointment. You cannot take the driving test until you have passed the written test.

What if I fail the driving test because I was nervous?

Failing the driving test does not go on your record or affect your ability to retake it. You can schedule another appointment and try again. Many people pass on their second or third attempt. The examiner understands that nerves happen.

Can I use a learner's permit to drive while I wait for my license to arrive?

The temporary paper license you receive at the DPS office is valid for driving when ready. You do not need a separate learner's permit. The paper license is good until your plastic card arrives, usually within 7 to 10 business days.