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 proving your identity and Texas residency. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) handles all licenses. You can take the written test at any DPS office, and the driving test must happen at a DPS office as well. The whole process typically takes a few weeks from start to finish, though you can walk in without an appointment at most locations.
If you already have a valid driver's license from another state, you can skip the written and driving tests — you only need to provide your out-of-state license, proof of residency, and proof of identity. Texas will issue you a license based on your existing driving record.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring original documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and Texas residency to any DPS office.
- 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 happens at a DPS office and tests basic vehicle control, parking, and your ability to follow traffic laws.
- If you hold a valid out-of-state license, you can renew as a Texas resident without retaking the written and driving tests.
- DPS offices are open Monday through Friday, and most do not require appointments, though wait times vary by location.
Documents you must bring to the DPS office
You will need to bring an original document proving your identity. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, or a foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa. A photocopy or digital image will not work — the DPS examiner must see the original.
You also need proof of your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you are not may be able to access.
Finally, bring two documents proving you live in Texas. These can include a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, a property tax bill, or an insurance policy. The documents must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days. A phone bill or credit card statement also works if it is recent.
Passing the written test on Texas 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 the DPS office.
Study using the free Texas Driver Handbook, which you can read from the DPS website or pick up at any DPS office. The handbook covers everything on the test: speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking laws, what different road signs mean, and how to handle emergencies. Most people spend a few hours reading the handbook before taking the test.
You can retake the written test if you fail, but you must wait one day before your next attempt. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, though each attempt costs the same fee.
Scheduling and passing the driving test
After you pass the written test, you can schedule your driving test at the same DPS office or a different one. Some offices let you book a time slot online through the DPS website; others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Call ahead to your local DPS office to find out which system they use and how far in advance you can schedule.
The driving test lasts about 10 to 15 minutes. The examiner will ask you to perform basic maneuvers: starting the car, driving forward and backward, making turns, parking, and stopping smoothly. You must follow all traffic laws during the test — speeding, running a stop sign, or hitting a curb will result in failure. You can retake the driving test if you fail, and you can schedule another attempt right away at most offices.
Bring the vehicle you will be driving during the test. It must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will check that the brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and horn all work before the test begins.
Fees and how long it takes
A Texas driver's license costs $16 for a two-year license or $32 for a five-year license. You choose the length when you explore. The written test and driving test are included in this fee — there are no separate test charges. If you need a replacement license because yours was lost or stolen, the cost is the same.
Your license is usually ready to pick up the same day you pass both tests, though some offices mail it to you instead. Ask the DPS examiner before you leave. If your license is mailed, it typically arrives within one to two weeks.
The entire process from your first visit to holding a license usually takes two to four weeks if you pass both tests on your first attempt. If you need to retake either test, add another week or two.
Getting a license if you are under 18
Texas has a graduated licensing system for drivers under 18. You start with a learner's permit, then move to a restricted license, and finally a full license. Each stage has different rules about when you can drive and who must be in the car with you.
To get a learner's permit, you must be at least 14 years old, pass the written test, and bring a parent or guardian to the DPS office to sign the process. You must hold the learner's permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test for a restricted license. A restricted license lets you drive without a supervising adult, but you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless a parent or guardian is in the car.
At 18, you can convert your restricted license to a full license without retaking any tests. Just visit a DPS office with your restricted license and your documents.
Renewing or replacing your Texas license
A Texas driver's license is valid for five years (or two years if you chose the shorter option). You can renew online through the DPS website if your license is not expired and you have not had any address changes. Online renewal costs $16 and takes about one week.
If your license is expired, you must renew in person at a DPS office. Bring your expired license and proof of current residency. You will not need to retake the written or driving test unless your license has been expired for more than two years.
If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement at any DPS office. Bring your documents proving identity and residency, just as you would for a new license. A replacement costs the same as a new license.
Finding a DPS office near you
The DPS website has a tool to find the nearest driver's license office by entering your city or zip code. Most large cities have multiple offices. Hours are typically Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some offices close for lunch.
Wait times vary widely depending on the office and the time of day. Rural offices often have shorter waits than urban ones. Calling ahead to ask about current wait times can help you plan when to visit. Some offices are busier on certain days of the week — asking the staff when they are least busy can save you time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test online from home?
No. You must take the written test in person at a DPS office on a computer provided by the office. You cannot take it remotely or on your own device.
What happens if I fail the driving test?
You can retake it as soon as you want, though most offices require you to wait at least one day. You do not need to retake the written test. Each driving test attempt costs the same fee as your original license.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I bring something else?
You can bring your Social Security card, a W-2, a 1099, or a letter from the Social Security Administration. Any one of these will work. You do not have to bring the card itself.
Can I get a Texas license if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes. You need a valid visa or other proof of legal presence in the U.S., along with your passport and proof of residency. Bring these documents to a DPS office and follow the same process as a citizen.
How long is a Texas driver's license valid?
A Texas driver's license is valid for five years from the date it is issued. You can choose a two-year license instead when you explore, which costs less. Your license will show the expiration date on the front.