What you need to do to get a Texas driver license

To get a Texas driver license, you visit a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, bring specific documents proving your identity and residency, pass a written test and a driving test, and pay a fee. The whole process typically takes one visit if you have all your documents ready, though you may need to schedule an appointment at some locations. Texas does not issue licenses by mail or online.

The state requires you to prove who you are, where you live, and your Social Security number before you can take the tests. If you already have a valid out-of-state license, you can skip the written test but still must pass the driving test. If you are under 18, the rules are stricter — you need a learner permit first, must hold it for a set time, and must complete a driver education course.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DPS office in person with original documents proving identity, residency, and Social Security number; no online or mail-in option exists.
  • The written test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs, and you can study using the official DPS manual available free online or at any DPS office.
  • The driving test is conducted by a DPS examiner at the office where you explore, and you must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition.
  • Fees vary by license type and duration — a standard five-year license costs less than an eight-year license — and DPS offices accept cash, check, and card.
  • If you are under 18, you must first obtain a learner permit, hold it for at least six months, complete a driver education course, and pass a separate driving test.

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, a passport card, a military ID, a permanent resident card, a tribal ID, or a consular ID card. A birth certificate alone is not enough — it must be paired with another document like a Social Security card or a school record.

You also need one document that proves you live in Texas. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill dated within the last 90 days works. If you have no utility bill or lease, you can bring a government check, a bank statement, an insurance policy, or a school record. The document must show your current address.

Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, such as a W-2 form or a tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a license but must bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you are not may be able to access for one.

If you are renewing a license that expired more than two years ago, you must retake the written and driving tests. If your license expired within the last two years, you may renew by mail or online without testing, depending on your age and license type.

The written test: what to study and how to pass

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 DPS also provides it in other languages through an interpreter you arrange yourself.

Study the official Texas Driver Handbook, which DPS publishes free and makes available online at the DPS website. You can also pick up a printed copy at any DPS office. The handbook covers right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, seat belt laws, what different road signs mean, and how to handle emergencies. Most questions on the test come directly from this handbook.

You get one attempt at the written test per visit. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at most offices, though some locations may require you to schedule another appointment. There is no fee to retake the test.

The driving test: vehicle requirements and what the examiner checks

You must bring a vehicle that is registered in Texas, has current liability insurance, and is in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working brakes, steering, lights, wipers, horn, and mirrors. Bring proof of registration and proof of insurance — your insurance card or a printed policy statement works.

The examiner will check that your vehicle meets safety standards, then take you on a 10- to 15-minute drive through city streets or residential areas. You will be asked to perform basic maneuvers such as parking, turning, stopping, and backing up. The examiner scores you on how well you follow traffic laws, control the vehicle, and respond to road conditions.

You must pass the driving test to receive your license. If you fail, you can retake it at most offices the same day or schedule another appointment. Each retake has a fee, which varies by location but is typically less than the original license fee.

Fees, license types, and how long your license lasts

A standard five-year driver license costs one amount; an eight-year license costs more. Fees also differ based on whether you are a new applicant, renewing, or replacing a lost or stolen license. DPS offices accept cash, personal checks, and debit or credit cards. Some offices may have limits on which payment methods they take, so call ahead if you want to confirm.

Texas offers a standard license, a Real ID-compliant license (which costs extra but is required for federal building access and domestic air travel), and a commercial driver license (CDL) for people who drive large trucks or buses. If you want a Real ID license, bring an additional document proving your Social Security number, such as a birth certificate or tax return.

Your license is valid for the duration you choose — five or eight years — unless you are under 18, in which case it expires on your 18th birthday and must be renewed in person. After age 18, you can renew by mail or online if your license is still valid or expired less than two years ago.

If you are under 18: learner permit and graduated licensing

Texas requires anyone under 18 to first obtain a learner permit (also called a learner license). To get one, you must pass the written test and bring the same identity and residency documents as for a full license. You do not take a driving test for the permit.

Once you have the permit, you must hold it for at least six months and be at least 16 years old before you can take the driving test for a full license. You must also complete a driver education course — either a classroom course or an online course approved by DPS. Some high schools offer the course for free; private driving schools charge a fee.

While you hold a learner permit, you can only drive with a licensed adult (age 21 or older) in the front seat. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. Once you pass the driving test, you receive a provisional license, which has restrictions until you turn 18.

Where to find a DPS office and how to schedule an appointment

DPS operates driver license offices in most Texas cities and towns. You can find the office nearest you on the DPS website by entering your zip code. The website also shows office hours, which vary by location — some are open Monday through Friday only, while others have Saturday hours.

Many DPS offices now require you to schedule an appointment online or by phone. Check the website for your local office to see whether appointments are required or whether you can walk in. If appointments are required and none are available, the office will show you when the next opening is. Wait times for walk-in service can be several hours at busy locations.

Bring all your documents to your appointment. If you are missing any required document, the office will not process your process and you will need to return another day. Some offices offer a document checklist on their website that you can review before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Texas driver license if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. Bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you are not may be able to access for a number, along with your other identity and residency documents. You will still take the written and driving tests and pay the same fee as anyone else.

What if I lost my license or it was stolen?

Go to a DPS office and request a replacement. Bring your identity and residency documents. You do not retake the tests. The fee for a replacement is usually lower than the fee for a new license. DPS can issue a temporary paper license on the spot while your permanent license is mailed to you.

How long does it take to get my license after I pass the test?

DPS mails your license to the address you provide, which typically takes 7 to 10 business days. You receive a temporary paper license at the office that is valid until your permanent license arrives. If you need your license sooner, some offices offer expedited mail service for an extra fee.

Do I have to retake the written test if I move to Texas from another state?

If you have a valid out-of-state license, you can skip the written test but must still pass the driving test. Bring your out-of-state license along with your Texas identity and residency documents. If your out-of-state license is expired, you must take both tests.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake it the same day at most offices or schedule another appointment. Each retake has a fee. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, but you must pay the fee each time.