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

A Texas driver's permit (called a learner license) lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car before you take your road test. You must have a learner license for at least 30 days before you can test for a full license if you are under 18. To get one, you visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, pass a written knowledge test, and provide proof of identity and residency.

The process takes about 30 minutes at the DPS office once you have your documents ready. You will pay a fee (currently $16 for a learner license, though this can change) and receive your permit the same day if you pass the test. The permit is valid for two years.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Texas DPS office in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and proof of residency to get a learner license.
  • You will take a written test on traffic laws and road signs at the DPS office; you can study using the free Texas Driver Handbook online before you go.
  • If you are under 18, you must hold a learner license for at least 30 days and 40 hours of supervised driving (including 10 hours at night) before you can test for a full license.
  • The learner license costs $16 and is valid for two years from the date you receive it.

Documents you need to bring to the DPS office

Bring an original or certified copy of one document that proves your identity. This can be a birth certificate, passport, consulate ID, or military ID. A school ID or library card will not work. If your birth certificate is not certified (it has a raised seal or official stamp), the DPS office will not accept it.

You also need proof of your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub with your full Social Security number on it. A tax return works too.

Finally, bring two documents that prove you live in Texas. These can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail addressed to you at your current address. Both documents must show your name and current address. They cannot both be from the same utility company or bank.

If you are under 18, you do not need a parent or guardian present, but you cannot hold a learner license without parental consent — the DPS office will ask you to sign a form confirming your parent or guardian has given permission.

How to study for the written knowledge test

The written test covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You answer 30 multiple-choice questions and must get at least 21 correct to pass. The test is offered in English and Spanish.

Study using the free Texas Driver Handbook, available on the DPS website at dps.texas.gov. read the PDF or read it online. The handbook covers everything the test asks about: speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, traffic signals, what different road signs mean, and how to handle emergencies. Read through it at least once before your test appointment.

Many people also use practice tests online. Search "Texas permit practice test" to find free quizzes that mimic the real test format. Taking a few practice tests helps you see which topics you need to review more.

Finding a DPS office and scheduling your visit

You do not need an appointment to take the written test at most DPS offices, but you can schedule one online at dps.texas.gov to skip the wait. Walk-ins are accepted during office hours, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Early morning and weekday visits usually have shorter lines than afternoons or Saturdays.

Find the DPS office nearest you on the DPS website. Enter your city or zip code and the site will show all offices in your area, their hours, and which services they offer. Not every office issues learner licenses, so check that "Learner License" is listed under services before you go.

Some DPS offices are busier than others. If your nearest office has long waits, try an office in a smaller town nearby — you can get your permit at any DPS office in Texas, not just the one closest to your home.

What happens on the day of your test

Arrive with all your documents and your fee ($16). You will check in at the front desk and fill out an process form (DL 44). The staff will verify your documents and take a photo for your permit. Then you will sit at a computer or paper station and take the 30-question written test. You have 30 minutes to finish.

If you pass, you will pay the fee and receive your learner license on the spot. It is a plastic card that looks like a driver's license. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day at most offices, though some may ask you to come back another day. There is no extra fee to retake the test.

Once you have your learner license, you can start practicing. You must have a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old in the front seat with you at all times. If you are under 18, you also have restrictions on when you can drive (no driving between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are driving to work or school) and who can ride with you.

Restrictions and rules while you hold a learner license

A learner license comes with rules that vary depending on your age. If you are under 18, you cannot drive alone. A licensed driver at least 21 years old must be in the front seat next to you. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are driving to or from work, school, or a medical appointment. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free.

If you are 18 or older, you have fewer restrictions. You can drive alone, but you still cannot use a cell phone while driving. You must follow all traffic laws and speed limits.

You must hold your learner license for at least 30 days before you can test for a full license. If you are under 18, you also need to complete 40 hours of supervised driving, including at least 10 hours at night. Keep a log of your driving hours — you will need to show it when you test for your full license.

What to do if you fail the written test

If you do not pass the written test, you can retake it when ready at most DPS offices. There is no fee for retakes. Study the areas where you missed questions and try again. Most people pass on their second attempt.

If you fail multiple times, ask the DPS staff which topics are giving you trouble. Go home, review those sections of the Texas Driver Handbook again, and take another practice test online. The test is not hard, but it does require you to know the rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner license if I am over 18?

Yes. Anyone 16 or older can get a learner license in Texas. If you are 18 or older, you have fewer restrictions — you can drive alone, and you do not have to hold the permit for 30 days before testing for a full license. You still must pass the written test and provide the same documents.

What if I lose my learner license?

Go to a DPS office and ask for a replacement. Bring your ID and proof of residency. The replacement costs $11. You will get a new card the same day. Your original permit number stays the same.

Do I need to take the written test again if I already have a learner license from another state?

Yes. Texas requires you to pass the Texas written test, even if you have a valid learner license from another state. You will need to surrender your out-of-state permit and follow the same process as a first-time applicant.

Can I take the written test online or by mail?

No. You must take the written test in person at a DPS office. There is no online or mail-in option for the learner license test.

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

You receive your learner license the same day you pass the test. It is printed and issued before you leave the DPS office.