The basic path to a Texas driver's license

To get a Texas driver's license, you need to pass a written test on traffic laws, pass a driving test, and provide proof of identity and residency to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). Most people complete this in two visits: first to study and take the written exam, then to schedule and pass the driving test. You can take the written test at any DPS office, and the driving test must be scheduled in advance at a location near you.

The entire process typically takes two to four weeks from start to finish, though this varies depending on how quickly you schedule your driving test and how busy your local DPS office is. You do not need to hold a learner's permit first if you are 18 or older, but if you are under 18, Texas requires you to hold a learner's permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test.

Key Takeaways

  • You must pass both a written test on traffic laws and a practical driving test, and provide documents proving your identity and Texas residency.
  • If you are under 18, you must hold a learner's permit for at least six months before taking the driving test; adults 18 and older can skip the permit step.
  • Visit a DPS office to take the written test, then schedule your driving test at the same location or another office near you.
  • Bring original documents or certified copies — a birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of residency such as a utility bill or lease are the most common combination.
  • The written test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices from the Texas Driver Handbook, which you can read free online before you go.

Documents you need to bring

Texas requires proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. For identity, bring your original birth certificate, passport, or state ID. For your Social Security number, bring your original Social Security card or a document from the Social Security Administration. If you do not have your original card, you can bring a W-2 form, tax return, or bank statement that shows your number.

For residency, bring a document dated within the last 90 days showing your current Texas address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. If you live with someone else and are not on the lease or utility bill, you can bring a notarized affidavit from the person whose name is on the bill, plus a copy of that bill. Do not bring copies of your birth certificate or passport unless they are certified by the issuing agency — DPS will not accept photocopies of these documents.

Taking the written test at a DPS office

Walk into any DPS office during business hours with your documents and ask to take the written test. You do not need to schedule this in advance. The test has 30 questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You must answer at least 21 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and Spanish, and you can request large-print or audio versions if you need them.

Before you go, read the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free on the DPS website. The test draws directly from this handbook, and most people who read it pass on their first try. The test costs around $16, though the exact fee varies slightly by office. You will receive your results when ready after you finish, and if you pass, the DPS office will give you a receipt showing you passed the written test.

Scheduling and taking the driving test

After you pass the written test, you can schedule your driving test at the same DPS office or at another location. You can schedule online through the DPS website, by phone, or in person. The driving test typically takes 10 to 15 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe driving decisions. You must bring the same vehicle you practiced in if possible, and it must be in safe working condition with valid registration and insurance.

Bring your receipt from the written test, your documents, and a valid learner's permit if you are under 18. If you are 18 or older and do not have a permit, bring your documents and the written test receipt. You must also bring someone with a valid driver's license to sit in the passenger seat during the test if you are under 18 or do not yet have a license. The driving test costs around $16 as well.

What happens if you fail the written or driving test

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or come back another day. There is no waiting period between attempts, though you will pay the test fee each time. Most DPS offices allow you to retake the written test when ready if you fail, so you can study the handbook sections you missed and try again within hours.

If you fail the driving test, you must wait at least seven days before you can schedule another attempt. You can retake it as many times as you need. Common reasons for failing include not coming to a complete stop, failing to signal, or unsafe lane changes. After you fail, ask the examiner what specific skills to practice, then schedule your next test once you feel ready.

Getting your license after you pass both tests

Once you pass the driving test, the DPS office will take your photo and issue your license on the spot or mail it to you within one to two weeks, depending on the office. If you receive it by mail, you will get a temporary paper license to use until the plastic card arrives. Your Texas driver's license is valid for six years if you are under 85 years old, and it costs around $33 for the first license, though fees vary slightly by office.

If you are under 18, your license will have restrictions printed on it, such as a curfew or limits on passengers. These restrictions are set by Texas law and depend on your age when you pass the driving test. You can remove some restrictions by completing a defensive driving course or by reaching a certain age — ask the DPS office which restrictions explore to your license and how to remove them.

Special situations: Renewing, replacing, or changing your address

If your license expires, you can renew it online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office, depending on how long it has been expired and whether you need a new photo. If your license is lost or stolen, go to a DPS office with your documents and pay a replacement fee of around $11 to get a new one. If you move to a new address in Texas, you must update your address within 30 days — you can do this online, by mail, or in person.

If you are moving to Texas from another state and already have a valid driver's license, you can exchange it for a Texas license. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Texas residency to any DPS office. You will not need to take the written or driving test, though you will pay the license fee and have your photo taken.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or at home?

No, you must take the written test in person at a DPS office. However, you can study the Texas Driver Handbook online for free before you go, and many DPS offices offer practice tests on their computers while you wait.

Do I need a learner's permit if I am 18 or older?

No, adults 18 and older can skip the learner's permit and go straight to the written and driving tests. If you are under 18, you must hold a learner's permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test.

What if I do not have a birth certificate?

You can bring a passport, state ID, or other government-issued identity document instead. If you do not have any of these, contact the Texas Vital Statistics office to order a birth certificate before you visit DPS.

How long does it take to get my license after I pass the driving test?

You will receive a temporary paper license when ready after you pass. Your plastic license card arrives by mail within one to two weeks. Some offices issue the plastic card on the spot, so ask when you schedule your test.

Can someone else take the driving test for me?

No, you must take the driving test yourself. The examiner needs to observe your driving skills and decision-making. You cannot use a proxy or substitute.