What you need to bring and where to go

To get an original Texas driver license, you visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, bring proof of identity and residency, pass a written test and a driving test, and pay the fee. You cannot do this by mail or online. The entire process — from walking in to leaving with a temporary license — usually takes one to three hours, depending on how busy the office is that day.

Texas does not issue learner's permits to adults. If you are 18 or older and have never held a driver license in any state, you go straight to the full license process. If you are under 18, you must first hold a learner's permit for at least six months before you can test for the license itself.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DPS office in person with original or certified copies of documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and Texas residency.
  • The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving; you must score at least 70 percent to pass.
  • The driving test is conducted by a DPS examiner at the office and includes basic vehicle control and traffic law compliance on public roads.
  • The fee for an original license is set by Texas law and varies slightly by license type, but is typically under $50 for a standard five-year license.
  • You receive a temporary paper license when ready after passing both tests; your plastic card arrives by mail within two to three weeks.

Documents you must bring to the DPS office

Bring an original document or certified copy proving your identity. A U.S. passport, passport card, or state ID card works. If you do not have one of those, a certified birth certificate plus a photo ID issued by a government agency (such as a school ID or military ID) together count as proof of identity. A driver license from another state also works.

You must also bring proof of your Social Security number. An original Social Security card is the simplest option. If you do not have the card itself, a W-2 form, tax return, or Social Security statement from ssa.gov will work. You cannot use a photocopy of your Social Security card.

Bring two documents proving you live in Texas. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days counts. A government-issued document with your current address — such as a voter registration card or property tax bill — also works. If you live with someone else and do not have documents in your name, a notarized affidavit from the person whose name is on the lease or utility bill, plus a copy of that document, can serve as proof of residency.

The written test: what to expect and how to prepare

The written test has 30 multiple-choice questions covering Texas traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 21 questions correctly — a score of 70 percent — to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at most offices, though you may have to pay the test fee again.

The test is offered in English and Spanish. You can also request a large-print version or other accommodations if you have a documented disability. Tell the DPS staff when you arrive if you need an accommodation.

To prepare, study the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free and available on the DPS website and in print at any DPS office. The handbook covers everything the test asks about. Many people also use online practice tests, which follow the same format and question types as the real test. Spend at least a few hours reviewing the handbook before your test date.

The driving test: vehicle control and road rules

The driving test is conducted by a DPS examiner and lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. You drive on public roads near the DPS office while the examiner watches and scores your performance. The examiner is looking for safe vehicle control, proper use of mirrors and signals, correct speed and lane positioning, and compliance with traffic signs and signals.

You must use your own vehicle or borrow one for the test. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will check the brakes, lights, wipers, horn, and steering before you start. If anything is broken or missing, you will not be allowed to test that day.

Common reasons people fail the driving test include rolling through stop signs, improper lane changes, speeding, failing to use turn signals, and hitting the curb during parking. If you fail, you can retake it, but you must wait at least one day. Most offices allow you to schedule a retest when ready after you fail.

Fees and what happens after you pass

The fee for an original five-year driver license is set by Texas statute. As of 2024, the standard fee is $48 for a five-year license and $96 for an eight-year license if you are 85 or older. Some DPS offices accept cash, debit, and credit cards; others accept only cash. Call your local DPS office ahead of time to confirm what payment methods they take.

After you pass both the written and driving tests, you receive a temporary paper license on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 45 days and works anywhere a regular license does. Your plastic driver license card is mailed to the address you provided and usually arrives within two to three weeks. If it does not arrive after three weeks, contact DPS to request a replacement.

Your new license is valid for five years from the date it is issued. You can renew it by mail or online before it expires, or you can renew it in person at a DPS office.

Finding a DPS office and scheduling your test

Texas has DPS driver license offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you on the DPS website by entering your city or zip code. The website shows hours, address, phone number, and whether the office requires an appointment.

Many DPS offices now require you to schedule an appointment online or by phone. Some offices still accept walk-ins, but wait times can be long, especially on Fridays and at the end of the month. Scheduling ahead is faster and more reliable. You can book an appointment on the DPS website or by calling the office directly.

If you cannot reach your local office or the website is not working, call the DPS main line at 1-844-DPS-TEXAS (1-844-377-8329). They can help you find an office, schedule an appointment, or answer questions about documents and fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or at home?

No. Both the written test and the driving test must be taken in person at a DPS office. You cannot take either test remotely or by mail. You must visit the office on the day of your appointment or scheduled walk-in time.

What if I fail the written test or driving test?

You can retake the test you failed, usually the same day or within a few days. Most offices charge the test fee again for each retake. There is no limit on how many times you can retake either test, but you must pass both before you receive a license.

Do I need a learner's permit first if I am 18 or older?

No. If you are 18 or older and have never held a driver license, you go straight to the full license test. You do not need a learner's permit. If you are under 18, you must hold a learner's permit for at least six months before you can test for the full license.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You cannot get a Texas driver license without providing a Social Security number. If you do not have one and are a U.S. citizen, you can explore for one through the Social Security Administration. If you are not a U.S. citizen, contact DPS to learn what documents you can use instead.

How long is my temporary paper license valid?

Your temporary paper license is valid for 45 days from the date it is issued. Your plastic card should arrive by mail within two to three weeks. If your plastic card has not arrived after 45 days, contact DPS to request a replacement before your temporary license expires.