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

To get a Texas driver's license, you must visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, pass a written knowledge test and a driving test, and provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. The entire process takes about 45 minutes to an hour at the office, though you should arrive early because wait times vary by location. You cannot complete this online — every applicant must appear in person for the vision screening and driving test.

Texas issues driver's licenses to people 18 and older. If you are under 18, you must first hold a learner's permit for a minimum of six months and pass a driver education course (unless you are 18 or older). The license itself is valid for eight years, or five years if you are over 79.

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 free Texas Driver Handbook available on the DPS website.
  • The driving test includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic maneuvers, and on-road driving; you bring your own vehicle or use one provided by the DPS office.
  • Processing takes about 45 minutes to an hour at the office, but your temporary license is valid when ready while you wait for the physical card by mail.
  • If you already have a valid driver's license from another state, you can renew or transfer it to Texas without retaking the written and driving tests.

Documents you must bring to the DPS office

Bring one document proving your identity and one proving your Texas residency. For identity, the DPS accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or a certified birth certificate paired with a photo ID (such as a school ID or work badge). If you use a birth certificate, it must be an official certified copy with a raised seal, not a photocopy.

For Texas residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill in your name with a current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have a utility bill or lease, you can bring two of these: a bank statement, insurance policy, school enrollment letter, or government mail addressed to you at your Texas address.

You must also provide your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form. If you cannot provide any of these, you can sign an affidavit at the DPS office, though this may delay processing.

The written knowledge test

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 you can request large-print or audio versions if needed.

Study using the free Texas Driver Handbook, available as a PDF on the DPS website or in print at any DPS office. The handbook covers everything on the test: speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, seat belt laws, and what different road signs mean. Most people spend 2 to 4 hours studying before taking the test. You get one attempt per visit to the DPS office; if you fail, you must schedule another appointment to retake it.

The driving test and vehicle requirements

After you pass the written test, you take the driving test the same day. The test lasts about 10 to 15 minutes and includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection (checking lights, wipers, horn, and brakes), basic maneuvers in a parking lot, and driving on public roads. The examiner watches for smooth steering, proper use of signals, safe speed, and correct responses to traffic signs and other vehicles.

You can bring your own vehicle or use one provided by the DPS office, though availability of office vehicles varies by location. If you bring your own, it must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle cannot have any safety defects that would prevent it from passing inspection. Call your local DPS office ahead of time to ask whether they have test vehicles available; if they do not, you must provide your own.

You must have someone 21 or older with a valid driver's license sit in the front passenger seat during the test. This person cannot be the examiner and cannot help you drive — they are there as a witness only.

Timeline and what happens after you pass

Once you pass both tests, the DPS office issues a temporary paper license valid for 45 days. This temporary license works everywhere a regular license does. Your permanent plastic driver's license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days in most cases, though it can take up to two weeks depending on mail volume.

The cost is $33 for an eight-year license if you are under 79, or $16 for a five-year license if you are 79 or older. Payment is cash, check, or card at the DPS office. Some offices have longer wait times than others; you can check current wait times on the DPS website before you go.

If you already have a license from another state

If you hold a valid driver's license from another state, you do not have to retake the written and driving tests. You can transfer it to Texas by visiting a DPS office with your out-of-state license, proof of Texas residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The process is faster than a new license process and costs the same.

If your out-of-state license has expired, you must retake both tests as if you were a new applicant. If it expired fewer than two years ago, some DPS offices may waive the tests — call ahead to ask. If it expired more than two years ago, you must take both tests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or by mail?

No. Texas requires you to take the written test in person at a DPS office so they can verify your identity. You cannot take it online, by mail, or through a third party. You must appear at the office with your documents.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake it by scheduling another appointment at a DPS office. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you must pay the fee again. Most people pass on the second try after reviewing their mistakes with a driving instructor or experienced driver.

Do I need a learner's permit before I get my license?

Only if you are under 18. If you are 18 or older, you can go straight to the full license test without a learner's permit. If you are under 18, you must hold a learner's permit for at least six months and complete a driver education course before you can take the driving test.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can sign an affidavit at the DPS office stating you do not have one. This may slow down processing, but you can still get a license. Bring whatever identity and residency documents you have, and the DPS staff will guide you through the affidavit process.

How long is a Texas driver's license valid?

Eight years if you are under 79 years old, or five years if you are 79 or older. You can renew it by mail, online, or in person before it expires. The DPS sends renewal notices by mail about 60 days before your license expires.