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

To get a Texas driver's license, you must pass a written test on traffic laws, pass a driving test, and provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). The process takes place at a DPS driver's license office, and you can schedule an appointment online or walk in during business hours. Most people complete the written test on the same day they visit, but the driving test is often scheduled for a later appointment.

Texas offers different license types depending on your age and driving history. A standard driver's license is valid for eight years if you are between 18 and 84 years old. If you are under 18, the license is valid for four years and comes with restrictions on when you can drive and who can ride with you. If you already hold a valid license from another state, you may not need to retake the written test, though DPS will verify your record.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Texas DPS office in person with proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number to begin the process.
  • The written test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs and is offered in multiple languages at most DPS offices.
  • The driving test is scheduled separately and typically takes place one to four weeks after you pass the written test, depending on office workload.
  • Fees vary by license type and age but typically range from $16 to $33 for a standard eight-year license.
  • If you hold a valid out-of-state license, you may renew it as a Texas license without retaking the written test.

Documents you must bring to a DPS office

Texas DPS requires you to bring one document that proves your identity and one that proves your current Texas residency. For 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 Social Security card or a letter from the Social Security Administration is also required.

For proof of residency, DPS accepts a utility bill, a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank statement, or a government document showing your current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have a document in your name, you can bring a letter from a government agency, a school, or an employer on official letterhead that confirms your address.

Bring your Social Security number or your Social Security card itself. If you do not have a Social Security number, you must bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one. You will also need to bring the fee for your license, which you can pay by cash, check, or debit card at most offices.

The written test: what to expect and how to prepare

The written test consists of 30 multiple-choice 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, Spanish, Vietnamese, and several other languages at most DPS offices. You can request a test in your preferred language when you schedule your appointment or arrive at the office.

DPS provides a free study guide called the Texas Driver's Handbook, available online at the DPS website and in print at any DPS office. The handbook covers all topics on the test, including speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking laws, and what different road signs mean. Many people study the handbook for a few hours before their test and pass on the first attempt.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no waiting period between attempts, though some offices may ask you to return at a different time. You pay the test fee each time you take the test.

Scheduling and passing the driving test

After you pass the written test, DPS will schedule your driving test at the same office or a nearby location. The wait time varies by office and season; in busy urban areas like Houston and Dallas, you may wait two to four weeks, while rural offices may have openings within one to two weeks. You can check available dates online when you schedule your written test appointment.

The driving test lasts about 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe driving decisions. A DPS examiner will sit in the passenger seat and direct you through a predetermined route in your community. You must use your own vehicle, which must be in safe working condition with valid registration and insurance. The vehicle's windows must be clean, the lights must work, and the brakes must be responsive.

You must bring your written test passing certificate and a valid form of ID to the driving test. If you fail, you can retake it, but you must wait at least one day before scheduling another attempt. Most people pass the driving test on their first or second attempt.

Timeline from start to license in hand

The fastest timeline is one day if you pass both the written and driving tests on the same visit, but this is rare. More commonly, you will visit a DPS office for the written test, wait one to four weeks for a driving test appointment, pass the driving test, and receive your license within one to two weeks after that. The entire process typically takes four to eight weeks from your first visit to receiving your physical license in the mail.

DPS mails your license to the address you provided at your office visit. You should receive it within 7 to 10 business days after you pass the driving test. If you need to drive before your license arrives, you can request a temporary paper license at the DPS office, which is valid for 45 days.

Fees and payment methods

A standard eight-year driver's license costs $33 for adults 18 and older. A four-year license for drivers under 18 costs $16. A commercial driver's license (CDL) costs more and requires additional testing. DPS offices accept cash, checks, and debit cards. Some offices also accept credit cards, though this varies by location. Call your local DPS office to confirm payment methods before you visit.

The written test fee is included in the license fee. If you retake the written test, you pay an additional $10 each time. The driving test fee is also included in the license fee, and retaking the driving test costs $10 per attempt.

If you hold a license from another state

If you have a valid driver's license from another U.S. state or territory, you can convert it to a Texas license without retaking the written test. You must still visit a DPS office, bring proof of identity and residency, and pay the license fee. DPS will verify your driving record with your previous state. If your record is clean, you will receive your Texas license without a driving test.

If your out-of-state license has expired, you may still convert it without retaking the written test, depending on how long it has been expired. If it expired more than two years ago, DPS may require you to take the written test. Bring your expired license to the DPS office so they can check your may be able to access.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or by mail?

No. Texas requires you to take the written test in person at a DPS office. You cannot take it online, by mail, or through a third-party testing center. You must visit a DPS office during business hours to take the test.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test after waiting at least one day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. Each retake costs $10. You do not need to retake the written test unless your written test passing certificate expires, which is typically six months after you pass it.

Do I need to bring my own car for the driving test?

Yes. You must provide your own vehicle for the driving test, and it must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will check the brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and steering before the test begins. If the vehicle is unsafe, the test will be postponed.

Can I get a temporary license while I wait for my permanent one?

Yes. After you pass the driving test, you can request a temporary paper license valid for 45 days. This allows you to drive legally while your permanent license is being mailed to you. The temporary license is printed at the DPS office before you leave.

What if I lost my Social Security card?

You can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration instead of the card itself. You can request this letter online at ssa.gov or by calling the Social Security Administration. The letter must show your name and Social Security number. Alternatively, you can bring your Social Security number written down, though DPS prefers an official document.