What you need to do to get your first Texas driver's license
To get your first Texas driver's license, you will visit a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, pass a written test about traffic laws, pass a driving test, and provide documents that prove your identity and Texas residency. The whole process takes about four to six weeks from start to finish, though the office visit itself usually takes one to three hours. You cannot do this entirely online or by mail — Texas requires you to show up and demonstrate that you can drive.
The state charges a fee for the license itself (currently $16 for a four-year license for someone under 18, or $32 for an eight-year license for someone 18 and older), plus a separate fee for the driving test if you take it at the DPS office. You will also need to pay for any documents you do not already have, such as a birth certificate or proof of residency.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a DPS office in person with proof of identity, proof of Texas residency, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number to take the written and driving tests.
- The written test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the official DPS manual available free online before you go.
- You can take the driving test at a DPS office or at a third-party testing location, and you must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in working condition.
- After you pass both tests, the DPS mails your license to the address you provide, which usually takes one to two weeks.
- If you fail either test, you can retake it, but you may have to pay the test fee again and wait a few days before your next attempt.
Documents you need to bring to the DPS office
Bring one document that proves your identity and one that proves you live in Texas. For identity, the DPS accepts a birth certificate, passport, consulate ID, or military ID. For residency, bring something with your current name and Texas address on it — a utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government mail all work. If your name has changed due to marriage or court order, bring the document that shows the change (marriage certificate or court order).
You also need to provide your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. If you do not have either, you can explore for an ITIN through the IRS, or you can request a DPS exception form if you are unable to obtain one. Bring the form or your ITIN documentation to the office.
If you are under 18, bring a parent or legal guardian with you. They will need to sign a consent form at the office. If you are 18 or older, you do not need anyone with you, but you can bring someone if you want.
How to prepare for the written test
The written test has 30 questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to answer at least 21 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and Spanish, and you can request a test in other languages if you contact your local DPS office ahead of time.
Study using the official Texas Driver Handbook, which the DPS publishes free online at their website. The handbook covers everything the test covers, and most questions come directly from it. You can also take practice tests online through the DPS website or through third-party websites that offer free Texas driver's license practice questions. Spend a few hours reviewing the handbook before your office visit — most people pass on their first try if they study.
You can bring glasses or contacts to the test if you need them to see. You cannot bring notes, phones, or other people's help during the test. The office will provide scratch paper if you need it to work through questions.
How to prepare for the driving test
The driving test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and responding to road conditions. You will drive on city streets and possibly highways, depending on which DPS office you visit. The examiner will ask you to perform tasks like parking, turning, stopping at signs, and merging.
Bring a vehicle that is registered in Texas, has current insurance, and is in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working brakes, steering, lights, wipers, and mirrors. If you bring a vehicle that fails a safety check, you will not be allowed to take the test that day and will have to reschedule. Practice driving in the weeks before your test — practice parking, turning in tight spaces, and following traffic laws. If you are nervous, ask a friend or family member to drive with you on practice runs.
You can take the driving test at a DPS office or at a third-party testing location. Third-party locations are often faster to schedule and may have shorter wait times, but they charge an additional fee (usually $10 to $15 more than the DPS office fee). Search for third-party testing locations on the DPS website by entering your county.
What happens after you pass both tests
Once you pass the written and driving tests, the DPS office will take your photo and print a temporary paper license on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and allows you to drive while you wait for your permanent license to arrive by mail. The permanent license usually arrives within one to two weeks, though it can take up to three weeks in busy periods.
The DPS will mail your license to the Texas address you provided at the office. If you move before the license arrives, you can request a replacement at your new address, but you will have to pay a replacement fee. If your license does not arrive after three weeks, contact your local DPS office to check the status.
What to do if you fail a test
If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or come back another day. If you fail the driving test, you must wait at least one day before you can retake it. You will have to pay the test fee again for each retake. Most people pass on their second or third attempt if they study or practice more between tries.
If you fail the driving test, ask the examiner what you did wrong so you know what to practice. Common reasons for failing include not coming to a complete stop, speeding, hitting a curb while parking, or not checking mirrors and blind spots. Practice those specific skills before you retake the test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test online?
No. Texas requires you to take both the written and driving tests in person at a DPS office or approved third-party testing location. You cannot take either test online or by mail.
Do I need to take a driver education course before I get my license?
Not if you are 18 or older. If you are under 18, Texas requires you to complete a driver education course before you can take the driving test. The course can be online or in person, and it usually takes four to six weeks. Your school may offer it, or you can find approved courses through the DPS website.
What if I do not have a birth certificate?
You can use a passport, consulate ID, or military ID instead. If you do not have any of those, contact your local DPS office to ask about other documents they will accept. You may need to order a birth certificate from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born, which can take several weeks.
Can someone else take the driving test for me?
No. You must take the driving test yourself. The examiner needs to see that you can control the vehicle and follow traffic laws. If you are not ready to take the test, you can reschedule for another day.
How long is my license valid?
If you are under 18, your license is valid for four years. If you are 18 or older, you can choose a four-year or eight-year license when you explore. After your license expires, you will need to renew it at a DPS office.