What You Need to Do First
To get a Texas driver's license, you visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, bring the required documents, pass a written test and a driving test, and pay the fee. The whole process takes about two visits — one to explore and take the written test, and a second to take the driving test once you pass the written portion. Most people complete both visits within a few weeks.
You cannot explore online or by mail. Texas requires you to appear in person at a DPS office so staff can verify your identity and take your photograph. The office will also administer your written test on the spot if you are ready.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring an original or certified birth certificate, proof of Texas residency (like a utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number to your first DPS visit.
- The written test covers traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the free Texas Driver Handbook available on the DPS website before you go.
- You must pass the written test before you can schedule a driving test, which is administered by DPS at the same office.
- The total fee for a five-year license is $45 (as of 2024, though this may change); you pay at the time of your first visit.
- If you already have a valid out-of-state license, you may not need to take the written test again, depending on your age and how long you have held it.
Documents You Must Bring to the DPS Office
Bring an original or certified birth certificate or a passport. This is your proof of identity and citizenship. A photocopy will not work. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or a Certificate of Naturalization.
Bring proof of Texas residency. This can be a current utility bill, a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, or a bank statement with your name and current address. The document must be dated within the last 30 days. A driver's license from another state does not count as proof of residency.
Bring proof of your Social Security number. You can bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one.
Bring your completed DL-44 form (process for Texas Driver License). You can fill this out at home before you go, or at the DPS office. Filling it out ahead of time speeds up your visit.
How the Written Test Works
The written test has 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 and Spanish, and also in other languages at some locations — call your local DPS office to ask.
You can study for free using the Texas Driver Handbook, which is available as a PDF on the DPS website (texas.gov/dps). The handbook covers everything on the test. Most people spend a few hours reading it before their visit. You can also take practice tests online through the DPS website.
When you arrive at the DPS office, staff will check your documents, take your photograph, and ask you to take the written test on a computer. You get your results when ready. If you pass, you move forward to scheduling your driving test. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at most offices, though you may have to wait a few hours.
Scheduling and Taking the Driving Test
After you pass the written test, DPS staff will help you schedule your driving test. Most offices allow you to schedule it for a date within the next few weeks. Some offices let you schedule it the same day; others require you to book it online or by phone.
For the driving test, bring the same documents you brought to your first visit, plus your vehicle. The vehicle must be in safe working condition — brakes, lights, wipers, and steering must all work. You can use someone else's car as long as you have permission and the car is insured and registered.
The driving test takes about 20 to 30 minutes. A DPS examiner will sit in the passenger seat while you drive on local roads. They will ask you to perform specific maneuvers like parallel parking, lane changes, and turns. You must follow all traffic laws and demonstrate safe driving. If you pass, you receive your temporary license on the spot. Your permanent license arrives by mail within two weeks.
If You Already Have an Out-of-State License
If you hold a valid driver's license from another state, you may not have to take the written test. The rules depend on your age and how long you have held your current license. Generally, if you are 18 or older and have held a valid license for at least one year, you can skip the written test and go straight to the driving test.
Bring your out-of-state license along with your other documents to your first DPS visit. Staff will tell you whether you may have access to to skip the written test. If you do, they will schedule your driving test and you will not have to return for a second written-test visit.
If you are under 18, the rules are different. You will need to complete a driver education course and pass the written test regardless of whether you hold an out-of-state license.
What Happens If You Fail the Driving Test
If you do not pass the driving test, you can retake it. Most DPS offices allow you to schedule another test within a few days or weeks. You do not have to retake the written test — you only retake the driving portion. There is no additional fee for retesting at most offices, though this varies by location, so ask when you schedule.
Before your second attempt, practice the specific maneuvers the examiner noted as problems. Common reasons for failing include not checking mirrors, not signaling before turns, speeding, or hitting the curb during parking. Many people pass on their second or third try.
Fees and How Long It Takes
A five-year Texas driver's license costs $45 as of 2024. You pay this fee at your first DPS visit when you explore. If you are 85 or older, the license is free. If you are 18 to 84, you pay the full fee.
The timeline depends on how quickly you schedule your visits and pass your tests. If you pass the written test on your first try and schedule the driving test for the next available slot, the whole process can take two to four weeks. If you need to retake either test, add another week or two. Your permanent license arrives by mail within two weeks of passing the driving test.
DPS offices are busiest on Saturdays and at the end of the month. If you can visit on a weekday morning, you will likely wait less time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take a driver education course?
Only if you are under 18. Adults 18 and older do not need to complete a course. Teens under 18 must complete a driver education program (either classroom or online) before they can get a license. The course covers traffic laws and safe driving. After completing it, you still must pass the written and driving tests.
Can I take the written test in a language other than English?
Yes. The test is offered in Spanish at all DPS offices. Other languages are available at some locations. Call your local DPS office before you visit to confirm whether your language is offered there.
What if I lose my documents before my DPS visit?
You can get a replacement birth certificate from the Texas Vital Statistics office (part of the Texas Department of State Health Services). You can get a replacement Social Security card from your local Social Security office. Both take a few days to a few weeks. If you need your license urgently, call your local DPS office to ask whether they can work with you while you obtain replacements.
Can someone else take the driving test for me?
No. You must take both the written and driving tests yourself. DPS staff verify your identity before each test to may support you are the person taking it.
What if I fail the driving test multiple times?
You can retake it as many times as you need. There is no limit on the number of attempts. Each retake costs the same as the first test at most offices. Consider taking a few paid driving lessons with a professional instructor between attempts — they can identify specific skills you need to improve.