What Texas requires to get a driver's license

Texas issues driver's licenses to people who meet several basic requirements: you must be at least 16 years old, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, a Texas resident, and able to pass a written test and a driving test. You also need to provide proof of your identity, Social Security number, and Texas residency. The state does not issue licenses based on immigration status alone — you need documentation showing you are legally in the country.

The age requirement has one exception: you can get a learner's permit at 14 if you are enrolled in a driver's education course. A learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car, but it is not a full license.

Texas also checks your driving record and criminal history. If you have certain convictions or a suspended license from another state, you may not be issued a license, or you may face restrictions on when and where you can drive.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 16 years old, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and a Texas resident to get a driver's license.
  • You will need to bring proof of identity, your Social Security number, and proof that you live in Texas — such as a utility bill or lease.
  • You must pass both a written knowledge test and a behind-the-wheel driving test at a Texas Department of Public Safety office.
  • Certain criminal convictions and suspended licenses from other states can prevent you from getting a Texas license or result in restrictions.
  • If you are 14 and enrolled in driver's education, you can get a learner's permit to practice driving before taking the full license test.

Documents you need to bring to the DPS office

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) requires specific documents when you explore. Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or consular report of birth. You also need a document showing your Social Security number, such as a Social Security card or W-2 form.

For proof of Texas residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address. The document must be dated within the last 30 days. If you do not have a utility bill or lease, you can bring a government-issued document like a property tax receipt or vehicle registration.

If you are under 18, you will also need a completed form signed by a parent or guardian. The form is called the Parental Consent for Minor, and you can read it from the DPS website or fill it out at the office.

The written test and what it covers

Before you take the driving test, you must pass a written knowledge test at the DPS office. The test has 30 multiple-choice questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to answer at least 21 questions correctly to pass.

The test covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, following distance, and what different road signs mean. You can study using the Texas Driver's Handbook, which is free and available on the DPS website. Many people also use practice tests online to prepare.

You are allowed to take the written test in languages other than English. DPS offers the test in Spanish and several other languages. If you need the test in a language not listed, contact your local DPS office to ask about options.

The driving test and how it works

After you pass the written test, you schedule a behind-the-wheel driving test with a DPS examiner. The test usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. You drive your own vehicle (or a vehicle owned by someone else, as long as you have permission), and the examiner sits in the passenger seat and watches you perform specific driving tasks.

The examiner will ask you to demonstrate skills like starting the car, turning, backing up, parking, and stopping smoothly. They will also check that you follow traffic laws, use your signals, and stay aware of other vehicles and pedestrians. You must pass this test to get your license.

If you do not pass the driving test, you can retake it. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you will need to pay the test fee each time you take it. Most people pass on their second or third attempt.

Age-specific rules and restrictions

Texas has different rules depending on your age. If you are 16 or 17, your license will have restrictions for the first six months. During this time, you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you can only have one passenger under 21 in the car (unless they are a family member). These restrictions lift after six months or when you turn 18, whichever comes first.

If you are 14 or 15 and want to start driving, you must first get a learner's permit by passing the written test. With a learner's permit, you can only drive when a licensed adult 21 or older is in the front seat with you. You must hold the permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test for a full license.

If you are 18 or older, there are no age-based restrictions on your license, though your driving record and any past convictions may still affect whether you can get one.

What happens if you have a criminal record or suspended license

Texas will not issue a driver's license if you have certain criminal convictions. These include felony convictions related to driving (like driving under the influence), crimes involving violence, or crimes involving controlled substances. The state also will not issue a license if you have an active suspension from Texas or another state.

If your license was suspended in another state, you must clear that suspension before Texas will issue you a new license. Contact the DPS office in the state where your license was suspended to find out what you need to do. Some suspensions can be cleared by paying a fee or completing a required course; others require you to wait out the suspension period.

If you have a criminal record but are unsure whether it will prevent you from getting a license, contact your local DPS office. They can tell you whether your specific situation disqualifies you or results in restrictions like limited driving privileges.

Where to explore and what it costs

You explore for a driver's license at any Texas Department of Public Safety office. You can find the office nearest you on the DPS website. Some offices are busier than others, so calling ahead or checking wait times online can help you plan your visit.

The fee for a driver's license in Texas is $16 for a four-year license or $32 for a six-year license. You pay this fee when you pass your driving test. If you need to retake the written or driving test, there is an additional fee for each attempt.

You do not need an appointment at most DPS offices, but some locations now offer online scheduling. Check your local office's website to see if you can reserve a time slot. Walk-ins are usually accepted, but you may have a shorter wait if you schedule ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Texas driver's license if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, if you are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) or have another legal immigration status recognized by Texas. You will need to bring your immigration documents to the DPS office. Undocumented immigrants cannot get a standard driver's license, but Texas does issue a special ID card that can be used for identification purposes.

What if I moved to Texas from another state and already have a license?

You can transfer your license to Texas by visiting a DPS office with your out-of-state license and proof of Texas residency. You do not need to retake the written or driving test. The fee is the same as for a new license. Your new Texas license will have an expiration date based on when your out-of-state license expires.

How long does it take to get a driver's license after I pass the test?

Your temporary license is issued when ready after you pass the driving test. Your permanent license is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You can use the temporary license to drive while you wait for the permanent one to arrive.

Can I take the written test online or at home?

No, you must take the written test in person at a DPS office. You cannot take it online or by mail. However, you can study for it at home using the Texas Driver's Handbook and practice tests available on the DPS website.

What if I fail the driving test — how soon can I retake it?

You can retake the driving test as soon as you want. There is no waiting period between attempts. However, you will need to pay the test fee each time you take it, and you may need to schedule another appointment depending on how busy your local DPS office is.