What You Need Before You Start

Texas issues driver's licenses through the Department of Public Safety (DPS), and you'll need to visit a DPS office in person. Before you go, gather these documents: proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or consulate ID), proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days), and your Social Security number. If you're under 18, you'll also need a completed form DL-44 signed by a parent or guardian.

You cannot complete this process online or by mail. Every person must appear at a DPS office to pass the written test, vision screening, and photograph. Bring originals or certified copies of your documents — photocopies alone won't work. If your documents are in another language, bring the original plus an English translation certified by the issuing agency or a notary.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DPS office in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number to get a Texas driver's license.
  • The written test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices; you can study using the official DPS manual available free online.
  • Vision screening happens at the DPS office, and you'll take a photograph there the same day you pass the written test.
  • Your license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you pass all tests and pay the fee.
  • If you already have a valid out-of-state license, you may skip the written test but still must pass the vision screening and photograph.

Step 1: Study for the Written Test

The written test has 30 questions covering Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You need 21 correct answers to pass. The DPS publishes the official study guide free on its website at dps.texas.gov — read it and read through the entire manual. The test questions come directly from this material, so studying it is the most direct preparation.

You can take practice tests online through various free resources, but the official manual is what matters. Pay special attention to right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking laws, and what different road signs mean. If English is not your first language, the DPS offers the test in Spanish as well as several other languages — ask at the office which languages are available in your location.

Step 2: Find Your Nearest DPS Office and Check Hours

Visit dps.texas.gov and use the office locator tool to find the DPS office closest to you. Texas has over 130 DPS offices statewide, and hours vary by location. Many offices are open Monday through Friday, but some have Saturday hours. Call ahead or check the website for your specific office's hours, because some locations close for lunch or have limited evening hours.

Bring all your documents with you on your first visit — you cannot complete the process if you're missing anything. Plan to spend 30 minutes to an hour at the office. Arrive early if possible, because some offices get busy in the afternoon, and a few locations operate on a first-come, first-served basis rather than appointments.

Step 3: Take the Vision Screening and Written Test

At the DPS office, you'll first pass through a vision screening. This tests whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision screening, you cannot take the written test that day — you'll need to see an eye doctor and return with corrective lenses or a prescription update.

Once you pass the vision screening, you'll take the written test on a computer at the office. You have 30 minutes to answer 30 questions. The test is multiple choice, and you'll see your score when ready. If you pass, you move to the next step. If you don't pass, you can retake the test the same day at no extra cost, though some offices may ask you to wait a short time before retesting.

Step 4: Have Your Photograph Taken and Pay the Fee

After you pass the written test, a DPS employee will take your photograph for the license. Wear something you're comfortable with — the photo will be on your license for several years. You cannot wear a hat, sunglasses, or anything that obscures your face, and the background will be plain.

You'll then pay the license fee at the office. As of 2024, a standard five-year driver's license costs $25, and an eight-year license costs $40. You can pay by cash, debit card, or credit card. After you pay, you're done at the office. Your physical license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

If You Already Have an Out-of-State License

If you hold a valid driver's license from another state, you don't have to take the written test. You still must pass the vision screening and have your photograph taken, and you still need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The process is faster — you'll be in and out in 15 to 20 minutes if everything is in order.

Your out-of-state license will be surrendered when you receive your Texas license. If you want to keep it as a souvenir, ask the DPS employee before you hand it over — some offices will return it to you after they process your process, but this is not may provide.

What Happens if You Don't Pass

If you fail the vision screening, you'll need to see an optometrist or ophthalmologist and return with corrective lenses or a new prescription. You can retake the vision screening at any DPS office once you have the correction in place.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it when ready at the same office, usually with no waiting period. You can retake the test as many times as you need, but you'll pay the full license fee each time you pass. Some people take the test two or three times before passing — this is normal and doesn't disqualify you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or at home?

No. Texas requires you to take the written test at a DPS office in person. You cannot take it online, by mail, or at a third-party location. You must appear in person for the vision screening and photograph as well.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

You need your Social Security number to get a Texas driver's license. If you don't have one, you'll need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a license. Bring your Social Security card or a letter from the SSA showing your number.

How long does the license last?

A standard Texas driver's license is valid for five years. You can choose to pay more for an eight-year license instead. Licenses expire on your birthday in the year they're set to expire, and you'll receive a renewal notice by mail about 45 days before expiration.

What if I fail the vision screening?

You'll need to see an eye doctor and get corrective lenses or a new prescription. Once you have the correction, return to any DPS office to retake the vision screening. You don't have to retake the written test — the office will have your passing score on file.

Can someone else pick up my license from the DPS office?

No. Your license will be mailed to the address you provided at the DPS office. You cannot pick it up in person or have someone else collect it. If your address changes before the license arrives, contact the DPS to update it so the mail reaches you.