What you need to know before you start
Texas issues driver's licenses to teens through a two-step process called the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program. You cannot go straight to a full license — you start with a learner permit, drive under restrictions for a set time, then move to a restricted license, and finally to an unrestricted license. Each step has its own age requirement, waiting period, and rules about who can be in the car with you.
The process takes months, not weeks, so starting early matters. You will need to pass a written test, a driving test, and a vision screening. You will also need documents that prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. Texas does not mail licenses — you pick yours up in person at a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office.
Key Takeaways
- You must be at least 14 years old to get a learner permit, and you must hold it for at least 6 months before you can take the driving test for a restricted license.
- A restricted license requires you to be at least 16 years old and to have held your learner permit for 6 months with no major traffic violations.
- You will need an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a Social Security card or number, proof of Texas residency, and a completed DL-44 form signed by a parent or guardian.
- The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving; you can study using the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free on the DPS website.
- You must pass a vision screening and a behind-the-wheel driving test before you receive your license; the driving test is scheduled after you pass the written test.
Getting your learner permit at age 14
To get a learner permit, you must be at least 14 years old. You will go to a DPS office with your parent or guardian and bring the documents listed below. You will take a written test on road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 21 correctly to pass.
Before the test, you can study using the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free on the DPS website at dps.texas.gov. You can also take practice tests online through the same site. Many teens find it helpful to study for a week or two before taking the test, though some pass on their first try.
Once you pass the written test, you will have your vision screened and your photo taken. You will receive your learner permit on the spot. A learner permit is valid for two years and costs around $16, though fees vary slightly by county.
What you can and cannot do with a learner permit
With a learner permit, you can drive only when a licensed adult is in the front seat next to you. That adult must be at least 21 years old and hold a valid driver's license. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive with only other teens in the car, even if one of them has a license.
You also cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. You must follow all traffic laws, including speed limits and stop signs. Any major traffic violation — such as reckless driving, speeding more than 15 miles per hour over the limit, or running a red light — will reset your 6-month waiting period. This means if you get a ticket, you have to wait another 6 months from the date of the violation before you can take your driving test.
You must wear a seatbelt at all times, and you cannot use a cell phone while driving, even to text or check messages. Hands-free calling is allowed, but most teens find it easier to straightforward not use the phone while behind the wheel.
Moving to a restricted license at age 16
After you turn 16 and have held your learner permit for at least 6 months with no major traffic violations, you can take your driving test. You will schedule the test at a DPS office. The test takes about 30 to 45 minutes and covers basic driving skills: starting the car, turning, parking, stopping, and following traffic laws.
You will drive in real traffic with a DPS examiner in the car. The examiner is looking for safe driving habits, not perfect driving. Most people pass on their first or second attempt. If you do not pass, you can retake the test after waiting a few days.
Once you pass the driving test, you receive a restricted license. A restricted license costs around $25 and is valid for two years. You can now drive without an adult in the car, but restrictions still explore.
Restrictions on a teen restricted license
With a restricted license, you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are driving to or from work, school, or a court-ordered activity. You also cannot have more than one passenger under age 21 in the car with you, unless that passenger is a family member. This rule is meant to reduce distractions and the risk of crashes involving teen drivers.
You must still follow all traffic laws and wear a seatbelt. You cannot use a cell phone while driving, except in an emergency. If you get a major traffic violation while on a restricted license, your license can be suspended.
You must hold a restricted license for at least 6 months before you can explore for an unrestricted license. Some teens choose to wait until they turn 18, at which point the restrictions automatically lift.
Documents you need to bring to a DPS office
Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate. A photocopy is not acceptable. You also need your Social Security card or a document that shows your Social Security number, such as a tax return or W-2 form. You will need proof that you live in Texas — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement in your name or your parent's name works.
You must bring a completed DL-44 form, which is the process for a driver's license or learner permit. You can read it from dps.texas.gov or pick one up at a DPS office. A parent or guardian must sign the form if you are under 18. Bring your parent or guardian with you to the office so they can sign in front of the DPS staff.
Bring any documents related to name changes, such as a marriage certificate or court order, if your current name differs from your birth certificate. If you have a disability or medical condition that affects your driving, bring documentation from your doctor.
Finding a DPS office and scheduling your test
Texas has DPS offices in most cities and towns. You can find the office nearest you on dps.texas.gov by entering your city or zip code. Some offices accept walk-ins for the written test, but many require you to schedule an appointment online or by phone. Call ahead to find out what your local office requires.
Wait times vary by location and time of year. Offices in large cities often have longer waits, especially during summer months when many teens are testing. If your local office has a long wait, you may be able to go to an office in a nearby town.
Once you pass your written test and are ready to schedule your driving test, the DPS office will give you information about available times. Driving test appointments often fill up weeks in advance, so schedule as soon as you are ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my license before age 16?
No. Texas law requires you to be at least 16 years old to take a driving test and receive a restricted license. You can get a learner permit at 14, but you must wait until you turn 16 and have held the permit for 6 months before you can drive without an adult.
What happens if I fail the written test?
You can retake the written test the same day or come back another day. There is no waiting period between attempts. Most DPS offices let you retake the test within a few hours if you want to try again right away.
What if I fail the driving test?
You can retake the driving test after a few days. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. Many people pass on their second or third attempt. Between attempts, practice driving with your learner permit and focus on the skills the examiner said you need to improve.
Do I need to take a driver education course?
No, it is not required by Texas law. However, some insurance companies offer discounts if you complete a driver education course, and some parents find that a course helps their teen learn faster. Courses are offered by private driving schools and some high schools.
Can I drive out of state with a Texas learner permit or restricted license?
A learner permit is valid only in Texas. A restricted license is valid in other states, but you must follow the laws of the state you are driving in. Some states have different rules about teen drivers, so check before you travel.