What you need to get a Texas learner's permit
A Texas learner's permit lets you drive under supervision before you take the road test for a full license. To get one, you need to visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, bring proof of identity and residency, pass a written knowledge test, and pay the fee. The whole process usually takes one office visit, though you should plan for a wait.
You must be at least 15 years old to explore. If you are under 18, you also need a parent or guardian to sign your process — they do not have to be present at the office, but they must sign the form before you submit it. If you are 18 or older, you can explore on your own.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring an original or certified birth certificate, a Social Security card or number, and proof of Texas residency such as a utility bill or lease in your name.
- The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices; you can study using the free Texas Driver Handbook available on the DPS website.
- The permit fee is $16 for a four-year permit if you are under 18, or $32 for a six-year permit if you are 18 or older.
- You must pass the knowledge test before you can drive with a permit, and you cannot take the road test for a full license until you have held the permit for at least six months (or 50 hours of supervised driving if you are under 18).
- DPS offices have different hours and wait times; calling ahead or checking online can help you find the shortest wait.
Documents to bring to the DPS office
Bring your original birth certificate or a certified copy issued by the state or county where you were born. A photocopy is not enough. You also need proof of your Social Security number — either your Social Security card itself or a document that shows your number, such as a tax return or W-2 form.
For proof of Texas residency, bring a document dated within the last 90 days that shows your name and a Texas address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. A driver's license or ID card from another state does not count as proof of residency. If you live with a parent or guardian and are not on the utility bill, bring a signed letter from them on their letterhead along with a copy of their proof of residency.
Bring your Social Security card if you have it, though you can also provide your number on the process form if you do not have the card with you. If you are under 18, bring the signed parental consent form — you can read this from the DPS website before you go, fill it out at home, and have your parent or guardian sign it.
The written knowledge test
The test has 30 multiple-choice questions covering Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 21 questions correctly to pass. The test is given on a computer at the DPS office, and you get your results when ready.
Study using the free Texas Driver Handbook, available as a PDF on the DPS website. The handbook covers everything on the test. You can also find practice tests online through the DPS site. Most people spend a few hours studying before taking the test; there is no required study time, but taking time to learn the material improves your chances of passing on the first try.
If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day or come back another day. There is no extra fee to retake it. Many people pass on the second attempt after reviewing the handbook again.
Permit fees and how long the permit lasts
If you are under 18, the permit costs $16 and is valid for four years. If you are 18 or older, the permit costs $32 and is valid for six years. You pay the fee at the DPS office when you explore. Most offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards.
Your permit expires on the date printed on the card. You cannot renew a permit — once it expires, you must explore for a new one if you still need to drive under supervision. If you turn 18 while holding a permit, the permit remains valid until its expiration date; you do not need to get a new one.
Restrictions on driving with a learner's permit
With a learner's permit, you can only drive when a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old is sitting next to you in the front seat. You cannot drive alone. You also cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., even with a licensed driver present.
If you are under 18, you must hold the permit for at least six months before you can take the road test for a full license. You can also meet this requirement by logging 50 hours of supervised driving, with at least 10 of those hours at night. Keep a log of your driving hours if you want to use this option — the DPS does not track it for you, but you may need to show it when you explore for your license.
You must follow all traffic laws while driving on a permit. A traffic violation or accident while you are a permit holder can delay your road test or result in your permit being suspended.
Where to go and what to expect
Visit any Texas DPS office to explore for a permit. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the DPS website. Some offices are busier than others; rural offices often have shorter waits than those in cities. Calling ahead to ask about wait times can help you plan.
Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost. Arrive early if possible — many offices open at 8 a.m. and fill up quickly. The whole process, from checking in to passing the test, usually takes 30 minutes to an hour if you pass the test on the first try. If you fail the test and retake it the same day, add another 15 to 30 minutes.
You will receive your permit card on the spot if you pass the test. The card is valid when ready. You can start driving with a licensed adult in the front seat as soon as you leave the office.
What happens after you get your permit
Once you have your permit, you can begin practicing for the road test. You need to log the required hours or wait the required time before you can take the test. When you are ready, you will return to a DPS office to schedule and take the road test. The road test costs $7 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
If you pass the road test, you will receive your full driver's license. If you fail, you can retake it after a waiting period — check the DPS website for current retake rules, as these can change. Many people pass the road test on the second or third attempt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a permit if I have a suspended or revoked license from another state?
No. If your license is suspended or revoked in any state, Texas will not issue you a permit or license until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact the DPS or the other state's licensing agency to find out how to clear the suspension.
What if I do not have a birth certificate?
You need an original or certified birth certificate to explore. If you do not have one, contact the vital records office in the state or county where you were born and request a certified copy. This can take one to four weeks depending on the office. Some offices offer expedited service for an extra fee.
Can I take the knowledge test online or at home?
No. You must take the test in person at a DPS office. The test is administered on a computer at the office, and a DPS employee must be present to verify your identity and supervise the test.
Do I need to take a driver's education course before I get a permit?
No. A driver's education course is not required to get a permit in Texas. However, if you are under 18 and want to reduce your insurance costs, some insurance companies offer discounts if you complete an approved driver's education course.
What if I lose my permit before it expires?
Return to a DPS office and request a replacement. Bring your identification and proof of residency. The replacement fee is $11. You will receive a new card with the same expiration date as your original permit.