What a Texas driver's permit is and who needs one

A Texas driver's permit is a document that allows you to learn to drive under supervision before you take your driving test for a full license. It is not the same as a driver's license — it comes with restrictions on when and how you can drive, and you must have a licensed adult in the car with you.

You need a permit if you are under 18 and have never held a driver's license in Texas or another state. If you are 18 or older and have never had a license, you can skip the permit and go straight to the license test, though many people still get a permit first to practice. If you already have a valid Texas license, you do not need a permit.

The permit itself is valid for one year from the date it is issued. After that, it expires and you must renew it if you have not yet passed your driving test and received your license.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 14 years old to get a Texas driver's permit, and you will need proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number.
  • The written test covers Texas traffic laws and safe driving practices, and you must score at least 70 percent to pass.
  • With a permit, you can only drive between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. for the first six months, and you must have a licensed adult 21 or older in the front seat.
  • Your permit is valid for one year; if you do not pass your driving test before it expires, you can renew it at a Texas Department of Public Safety office.
  • The fee for a permit is $16, and renewal costs the same amount.

Documents you need to bring to get a permit

Texas requires you to prove your identity, age, residency, and Social Security number. Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, or a valid passport. You will also need proof that you live in Texas — a utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement dated within the last three months will work.

You must provide your Social Security number. If you do not have one, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access. You will also need to fill out Form DL-44, the process for a Texas Driver License or Permit, before you arrive at the office.

If you are under 18, you must bring a completed Parental Consent form (Form DL-43) signed by a parent or legal guardian. This form is available on the Texas Department of Public Safety website or at any DPS office.

How to take the written test and what it covers

The written test is administered at a Texas Department of Public Safety office. You cannot take it online or by mail — you must go in person. The test has 30 questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and what to do in emergency situations. You have 30 minutes to complete it.

You must score at least 21 out of 30 questions correct (70 percent) to pass. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or come back another day at no additional cost. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it.

The test is offered in English and Spanish. If you need the test in another language, contact your local DPS office ahead of time to ask about accommodations.

Restrictions that explore while you have a permit

A Texas driver's permit comes with strict rules about when and how you can drive. For the first six months you hold the permit, you can only drive between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. After six months, the nighttime restriction is lifted and you can drive any time of day, but all other rules stay in place until you get your license.

You must have a licensed driver who is 21 years old or older sitting in the front seat next to you at all times. This person must have a valid driver's license and be physically able to exercise control over the vehicle if needed. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot have an unlicensed person in the front seat even if they are an adult.

You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, except in a genuine emergency. This rule applies to all new drivers in Texas, not just permit holders.

How to renew your permit before it expires

Your permit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. If you have not passed your driving test by the time it expires, you need to renew it. You can renew in person at any Texas Department of Public Safety office.

Bring your expired permit, proof of residency (a utility bill or lease dated within the last three months), and the $16 renewal fee. You do not need to retake the written test when you renew — you only need to pay the fee and provide updated residency proof if your address has changed.

If your permit was lost, stolen, or damaged, you can replace it instead of renewing it. Bring your ID and proof of residency, and pay the $16 replacement fee. You will receive a new permit with a new expiration date one year from the replacement date.

Where to find a Texas Department of Public Safety office near you

Texas has DPS offices in most cities and towns. To find the one nearest you, visit the Texas Department of Public Safety website and use their office locator tool. You can search by city, county, or ZIP code.

Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require you to schedule an appointment. Check the website or call ahead to confirm the hours and whether your local office takes appointments. Wait times vary — some offices have short lines, while others may have a wait of an hour or more during busy times.

If you cannot reach a DPS office easily, some county tax assessor-collector offices also issue permits. Call your county tax assessor-collector to ask whether they offer this service in your area.

What happens after your permit expires or you pass your driving test

Once you pass your driving test, you will receive your Texas driver's license. The license is valid for six years if you are under 85 years old. You do not need to do anything with your permit after you get your license — you can throw it away or keep it as a record.

If your permit expires and you have not yet passed your driving test, you must renew it before you can continue practicing. You cannot drive on an expired permit, even with a licensed adult in the car. Renewing is straightforward — bring your expired permit, proof of residency, and $16 to any DPS office.

If you decide not to pursue a license after your permit expires, you do not need to do anything. The permit straightforward stops being valid, and you cannot drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a permit if I am homeschooled?

Yes. You do not need to be enrolled in a school to get a permit. You must be at least 14 years old and meet the identity and residency requirements. Bring the same documents as anyone else — birth certificate, proof of residency, and your Social Security number.

What if I move to Texas from another state with a valid permit?

If you hold a valid permit from another state, you can continue using it in Texas while you prepare for your driving test. You do not need to exchange it for a Texas permit. However, once it expires, you must get a Texas permit if you want to keep practicing.

Can I take my driving test before six months have passed with my permit?

No. Texas law requires you to hold a permit for at least six months before you can take your driving test. This rule applies to everyone under 18. If you are 18 or older, you can skip the permit and take the driving test right away.

What if I fail my driving test — do I need a new permit?

No. Your permit remains valid as long as it has not expired. You can retake the driving test as many times as you need. Each time you take the test, you pay a separate fee, but you do not need a new permit.

Is there a fee to take the written test?

The $16 permit fee covers the written test. You do not pay separately for the test itself. If you fail and retake it, there is no additional charge.