What you need to get a Texas driver license
To get a Texas driver license as an adult, you must visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and proof of lawful presence in the United States. You will also take a written test on traffic laws, a vision test, and a driving test. The entire process takes place at the DPS office — there is no online or mail-in route for a first-time license.
Texas recognizes several forms of lawful presence, including U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, valid visa status, and work authorization. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can request a tax identification number from the IRS instead. The DPS office will verify your information with the Social Security Administration and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services before issuing your license.
The standard Texas driver license is valid for six years if you are under 85 years old. If you are 85 or older, your license is valid for two years. You can renew before expiration, but not more than one year in advance.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring original or certified documents proving identity, residency, Social Security number, and lawful presence — photocopies are not accepted for most documents.
- The written test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs; you must pass with a score of at least 70 percent.
- The driving test is conducted by a DPS examiner and includes basic vehicle control, turning, parking, and response to traffic signals.
- A standard Texas driver license costs between $16 and $27 depending on how long you want it valid, and the fee does not change if you fail and retake the test.
- If you hold a valid driver license from another state or country, you may still be required to pass the written and driving tests unless you meet specific reciprocity rules.
Documents you must bring to the DPS office
Bring one document that proves your identity and is issued by a government agency. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, state ID card from another state, or a certified birth certificate. The document must be an original or certified copy — a photocopy will not be accepted.
For proof of residency, bring a document dated within the last 90 days that shows your name and current Texas address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. If you live with someone else and do not have a bill in your name, you can bring a notarized affidavit from the person whose name is on the bill, plus that person's ID.
Proof of Social Security number can be your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a Social Security statement from the SSA website. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the IRS confirming your tax identification number. Proof of lawful presence varies by immigration status — bring your passport, visa, work permit, green card, or other federal immigration document.
The written test and what it covers
The written test has 30 multiple-choice questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 21 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and Spanish, and you can request a large-print version or other accommodations if you need them.
The DPS provides a free study guide called the Texas Driver Handbook, available online at the DPS website and in print at any DPS office. The handbook covers everything on the test. You can take the test as many times as you need; there is no limit on retakes, and you do not pay an additional fee each time you take it.
If you already hold a valid driver license from another U.S. state or Canada, you may be waived from the written test. You will still take the vision and driving tests. Licenses from other countries do not may have access to for this waiver.
The driving test and what the examiner looks for
The driving test lasts about 15 to 20 minutes and takes place on public roads near the DPS office. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle's registration and insurance documents must be current and in the vehicle with you.
The examiner will ask you to perform basic maneuvers: starting the vehicle, turning left and right, backing up, parking, and responding to traffic signals and signs. The examiner is looking for smooth control, proper use of mirrors and signals, safe speed, and awareness of other traffic. Common reasons people fail include hitting a curb, rolling through a stop sign, improper lane changes, or hitting another vehicle.
You can take the driving test as many times as you need. If you fail, you can schedule another test, but wait times vary by location. Some offices have openings within days; others may have a wait of several weeks.
Renewing your Texas driver license
You can renew your license online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office, but only if your license is not expired and you meet certain conditions. Online renewal is available if your license was issued in Texas, you are a U.S. citizen, you have not had a license suspension or denial, and you do not need to update your address or other information. The online renewal process takes about 10 minutes and costs less than renewing in person.
Mail renewal is available under the same conditions as online renewal. You will receive a renewal packet in the mail before your license expires; follow the instructions, include payment, and mail it back to the address provided. Processing takes about two weeks after the DPS receives your packet.
If you cannot renew online or by mail, you must renew in person at a DPS office. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and payment. You will not retake the written or driving test unless your license has been expired for more than two years, or unless the DPS has reason to believe your information has changed.
Cost and processing time
A Texas driver license costs between $16 and $27 depending on the validity period you choose. A four-year license costs $16; a six-year license costs $27. If you are 85 or older, a two-year license costs $11. These fees do not change if you fail a test and retake it.
If you explore in person at a DPS office, you receive your license the same day if you pass all tests. The DPS will issue a temporary paper license valid for 45 days while your plastic card is printed and mailed to you. Your plastic license usually arrives within two weeks.
Online and mail renewals take longer. Online renewal is processed within one business day, and your new license is mailed to you within two weeks. Mail renewal takes about two weeks after the DPS receives your packet, plus mailing time.
Special situations and exceptions
If you are under 18, you must follow different rules: you need parental consent, a driver education course, and a learner permit before you can take the driving test. This article covers adult licenses only.
If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it. You must contact the DPS to find out why and what steps you need to take to restore it. Suspensions can result from unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, or medical reasons.
If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can request a sign language interpreter or written communication at your DPS appointment. If you are blind or have low vision, you can bring a reader or request materials in Braille or large print. Contact your local DPS office at least one week before your appointment to arrange accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I fail the driving test?
You can retake the driving test as many times as you need. There is no additional fee, but you must schedule another appointment. Wait times vary by location — some offices have openings within days, while others may have a wait of several weeks. You do not have to retake the written test unless the DPS requires it.
Can I use my passport as proof of identity?
Yes. A U.S. passport or passport card is acceptable proof of identity. It must be an original document — a photocopy will not be accepted. Your passport also serves as proof of lawful presence, so you may not need to bring a separate immigration document.
Do I have to take the written and driving tests if I already have a license from another state?
You must take the driving test. The written test is waived only if your license is from another U.S. state or Canada and is still valid. Licenses from other countries do not may have access to for the waiver, and you will take both tests.
How long does it take to get my plastic license card after I pass the tests?
You receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days on the day you pass. Your plastic card is mailed to the address on your process and usually arrives within two weeks. If it does not arrive within three weeks, contact your local DPS office.
Can I renew my license online if I need to change my address?
No. Online renewal is only available if you do not need to update your address or other information. If you are moving or changing your name, you must renew in person at a DPS office or by mail. Bring proof of your new address and any documents showing a legal name change.