What you need to do to get a Texas driver's license
To get a Texas driver's license, you will need to pass a written test on traffic laws, pass a driving test, and provide documents that prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) handles all driver's licenses in the state. You can take your written test at any DPS office, and you will schedule your driving test separately at a location near you. The whole process usually takes a few weeks from start to finish, depending on how quickly you can gather documents and book your test appointments.
Texas issues driver's licenses to people 16 and older. If you are under 18, you will follow a different path called the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program, which has restrictions on when and how you can drive. If you are 18 or older, you can go straight to a full license without those restrictions.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a Social Security card or document showing your number, and proof of Texas residency such as a utility bill or lease.
- The written test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the free Texas Driver Handbook available on the DPS website.
- You must pass the written test before you can schedule a driving test, and you need a valid learner's permit or instruction permit to take the driving test.
- The driving test includes a vehicle inspection, a written portion on vehicle safety, and an actual drive with a DPS examiner.
- Fees vary but typically run between $16 and $27 for a license, plus additional costs if you need certified documents or expedited processing.
Documents you must bring to the DPS office
Texas requires specific documents to prove who you are, where you live, and your Social Security number. Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate — a photocopy will not work. You also need your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, such as a W-2 form or tax return. If you do not have a Social Security card, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration.
For proof of residency, bring a document dated within the last 30 days that shows your name and current Texas address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must also bring their ID and sign documents at the DPS office.
If you were born outside the United States, you will also need to bring your passport or visa. If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, bring the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Taking the written test on traffic laws
The written test has 30 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 take it on a computer at any DPS office during business hours — no appointment needed for the written test.
Study using the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free and available as a PDF on the DPS website at dps.texas.gov. The handbook covers everything the test covers, including speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking laws, and what different road signs mean. Most people spend a few days to a week studying before taking the test. You can retake the written test if you fail, but you must wait one day between attempts.
Once you pass the written test, the DPS office will issue you a learner's permit or instruction permit. This permit allows you to practice driving with a licensed adult in the car. You must have this permit before you can take the driving test.
Scheduling and taking the driving test
After you pass the written test and receive your learner's permit, you can schedule your driving test. You must schedule this appointment in advance — you cannot walk in and take it the same day. Call the DPS office where you want to take the test, or go to the DPS website to book online. Wait times vary by location; some offices have openings within a week, while others may have a wait of several weeks.
On the day of your driving test, bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance for the vehicle you will drive, and the vehicle itself. The vehicle must be in safe working condition — the examiner will check the brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and horn before you drive. You must also bring a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old to be present during the test, though they will not be in the car with you.
The driving test has three parts. First, the examiner will ask you questions about vehicle safety and maintenance. Second, you will perform a series of maneuvers in a parking lot or quiet area, such as backing up, parking, and turning. Third, you will drive on regular streets with the examiner in the car for about 20 minutes. The examiner will watch how you handle turns, stops, speed control, and how you respond to other traffic.
Costs and how long it takes
A Texas driver's license costs between $16 and $27 depending on how long you want it to be valid. A license valid for four years costs less than one valid for eight years. If you need certified copies of documents like your birth certificate, those cost extra — typically $20 to $30 per copy depending on where you order them.
The entire process from your first visit to the DPS office to receiving your license in the mail usually takes three to six weeks. The written test can happen the same day you bring your documents. The driving test typically happens one to four weeks later, depending on how quickly you can schedule it and how busy your local DPS office is. After you pass the driving test, your license will be mailed to you within one to two weeks.
If you need your license faster, Texas offers expedited processing for an additional fee, usually around $10 to $15. This shortens the mailing time but does not speed up the test scheduling.
Special rules for drivers under 18
If you are under 18, you must follow the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program. This program has three stages: a learner's permit, a restricted license, and a full license. You cannot move to the next stage until you meet the requirements of the current stage.
With a learner's permit, you can only drive with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old in the front seat. You must hold the learner's permit for at least six months and be at least 16 years old before you can take the driving test for a restricted license. With a restricted license, you can drive alone during the day but cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are driving to or from work, school, or a medical appointment. You must hold the restricted license for at least six months and be at least 17 years old before you can get a full license with no restrictions.
What to do if you fail the driving test
If you fail the driving test, you can retake it. You must wait at least one day before scheduling another test. There is no limit to how many times you can take the driving test, but you will pay the test fee each time. Most people pass on their second or third attempt after practicing more.
When you retake the test, bring the same documents and vehicle as before. The examiner will focus on the same skills but may test different maneuvers or routes. Many DPS offices offer practice test information or can tell you what specific skills you struggled with so you know what to work on before your next attempt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test online from home?
No. The written test must be taken in person at a DPS office. You cannot take it online or by mail. However, you can study at home using the free Texas Driver Handbook before you go to the office.
What if I do not have a birth certificate?
You can order a certified copy from the Texas Vital Statistics office or the state where you were born. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport instead. The DPS office can tell you what documents they will accept if your situation is unusual.
Do I need to take a vision test?
Yes. The DPS office will test your vision as part of the license process. If you wear glasses or contacts, wear them during the vision test and during your driving test. If you fail the vision test, you may need a letter from an eye doctor saying you can drive safely.
Can someone else take the driving test for me?
No. You must take the driving test yourself. The examiner needs to see that you can control the vehicle and follow traffic laws. There are no exceptions to this requirement.
How long is a Texas driver's license valid?
A Texas driver's license is valid for either four or eight years, depending on which one you choose when you explore. You choose the length when you pay the fee. An eight-year license costs more but lasts longer before you need to renew it.