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

A Texas learner's license (also called a learner permit) lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car before you take the road test for a full license. To get one, you must be at least 15 years old, pass a written knowledge test about traffic laws and road signs, and pass a vision screening. You'll also need to bring specific documents to a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office and pay a fee.

The process takes one visit to a DPS office if you have all your documents ready. Most people complete it in under an hour, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 15 years old and bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and Texas residency to a DPS office.
  • The written test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the official Texas Driver Handbook, which is free online.
  • You'll pay a fee (the amount varies but is typically under $30) and pass a vision screening on the same day.
  • Once you have your learner's license, you can practice driving with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old and sitting beside you.
  • You must hold your learner's license for a minimum of six months before you can take the road test for a full license.

Documents you must bring to the DPS office

Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or consular report of birth. You'll also need proof of your Social Security number — an original Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form works. If you don't have your Social Security card, you can bring a document issued by a federal or state agency that shows your number.

You must also show proof that you live in Texas. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address will work. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days.

Bring your completed process for Texas Identification (Form DL-44), which you can print from the DPS website or fill out at the office. You'll also need to bring a parent or guardian if you're under 18 — they must sign the process in person.

How to study for and pass the written test

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 covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, and what different road signs mean.

Study using the official Texas Driver Handbook, which is free and available as a PDF on the DPS website. Read through it carefully — the test questions come directly from the handbook. Many people also use online practice tests, which you can find by searching "Texas learner's license practice test." These aren't official, but they help you get used to the format.

You can take the test on a computer at the DPS office. If you need the test in a language other than English, Spanish is available at most offices. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another time — there's no waiting period between attempts.

Vision screening and medical requirements

At the DPS office, you'll take a vision screening. You must be able to see at least 20/40 in each eye with or without corrective lenses. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you.

If you fail the vision screening, the DPS will refer you to an eye doctor. You'll need to get a vision correction form signed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist and bring it back to the DPS office. This adds time to the process, so if you know your vision isn't perfect, consider getting an eye exam before your DPS visit.

There are no other medical tests required for a learner's license. You don't need a doctor's note or physical exam.

The fee and how to pay

The fee for a Texas learner's license varies depending on how long you want it to be valid. A learner's license is typically valid for two years. Payment methods accepted at DPS offices include cash, debit card, and credit card. Some offices may also accept checks, but call ahead to confirm.

The exact fee amount changes periodically, so check the DPS website or call your local office before you go. The fee is non-refundable, even if you fail the written test and need to retake it.

Finding a DPS office and scheduling your visit

You can visit any DPS office in Texas — you don't have to go to the one in your county. Use the DPS office locator on their website to find the nearest location, hours, and phone number. Some offices are busier than others, so you might have a shorter wait at an office outside your when ready area.

Most DPS offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but some allow you to schedule an appointment online or by phone. Check your local office's website or call to see if appointments are available. If you go without an appointment, arrive early in the day — wait times are usually shorter in the morning.

Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they don't get lost or damaged. Double-check the DPS website the day before your visit to make sure you have everything, since requirements can change.

What happens after you get your learner's license

Once you pass the test and vision screening, you'll receive your learner's license on the spot. It's a physical card that you must carry with you whenever you drive. Your license will have your photo, name, date of birth, and license number on it.

With your learner's license, you can practice driving with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old. That adult must sit in the front passenger seat next to you. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. (this is a state law for learner's license holders).

You must hold your learner's license for at least six months before you can take the road test for a full driver's license. Some people wait longer to feel more confident, which is fine — there's no maximum time limit. When you're ready, you'll schedule a road test at a DPS office and take it with a DPS examiner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's license if I'm under 15?

No. Texas law requires you to be at least 15 years old. If you're younger, you'll need to wait until your 15th birthday to visit a DPS office.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it when ready at the same DPS office visit, or you can come back another day. There's no waiting period and no extra fee to retake it. Most people pass on their second attempt if they study the handbook more carefully.

Do I need a parent or guardian to be there if I'm 18 or older?

No. If you're 18 or older, you can go to the DPS office alone. You only need a parent or guardian present if you're under 18, and they must sign the process in person.

Can I practice driving on the highway with my learner's license?

Yes, but you must follow all learner's license restrictions: a licensed adult at least 21 years old must be in the front passenger seat, and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. There are no restrictions on which roads you can use.

What if I lose my learner's license?

Go to a DPS office and request a replacement. You'll need to pay a replacement fee (smaller than the original fee) and bring your ID. The replacement is usually issued the same day.