The documents and steps to get your first Texas license

To get a Texas driver's license, you need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number to a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, pass a written test and a driving test, and pay the fee. The whole process takes about 45 minutes to an hour at the office, though you may wait depending on how busy the location is. You do not need to have a learner's permit first, but most people get one before taking the driving test.

Texas accepts a wide range of documents for identity and residency, so you likely have what you need already. The key is bringing originals or certified copies — photocopies do not work. If you are under 18, you will also need a parent or guardian to sign a consent form in person at the DPS office.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate or passport, a document showing your current Texas address, and proof of your Social Security number to a DPS office.
  • You will take a written test on traffic laws and road signs, then a driving test with a DPS examiner in your own vehicle or a DPS vehicle.
  • The fee for a five-year license is $45 if you are 18 or older; the cost is lower for minors and varies by age.
  • If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present and sign a consent form at the DPS office.
  • You can get a learner's permit first to practice driving with a licensed adult, though it is not required to take the driving test.

Documents you need to bring

Bring one document that proves your identity and citizenship. A U.S. passport, birth certificate, or Certificate of Naturalization all work. If you were born outside the U.S., bring your passport or a valid visa. The document must be an original or a certified copy from the issuing agency — a photocopy will not be accepted.

Bring one document that shows your current Texas address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days all count. A government check or tax return also works. The address on the document must match the address you want on your license.

Bring proof of your Social Security number. You can bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub showing your full Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a license, but you will need to bring additional documents — ask the DPS office which ones.

The written test and what it covers

The written test has 30 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 you can request a large-print version if you need one.

The test covers things like speed limits, right-of-way rules, what different road signs mean, how to handle a skid, and what to do at a red light. You can study using the Texas Driver's Handbook, which the DPS publishes free online. Many people also use practice tests available on the DPS website or through third-party study apps.

You get one chance to pass the written test on the day you visit the DPS office. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another day — there is no waiting period between attempts.

The driving test and what the examiner watches for

The driving test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. A DPS examiner sits in the passenger seat while you drive on public roads. You will be asked to perform basic maneuvers like parking, backing up, turning, and stopping. The examiner is watching for safe driving habits — smooth steering, proper use of mirrors, correct signaling, and following traffic laws.

You can use your own vehicle or a DPS vehicle for the test. If you use your own car, it must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will check that the brakes, lights, wipers, and horn all work before you start driving.

You get one chance to pass the driving test on the day you take it. If you fail, you can schedule another test, but there is usually a wait of several days to a few weeks depending on how busy the DPS office is.

Age-specific rules for drivers under 18

If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must come with you to the DPS office and sign a consent form. You cannot get a license without this signature.

Texas also requires drivers under 18 to get a learner's permit first and hold it for at least six months before taking the driving test. During this time, you must drive with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old. After six months with the permit, you can take the driving test and get your license.

Once you have your license, if you are under 18, you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are driving to or from work, school, or a medical appointment. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, except in an emergency.

Fees and how long the license lasts

A five-year driver's license costs $45 if you are 18 or older. If you are 18 to 84 years old and renewing an existing license, the cost is the same. Licenses for people 85 and older are free.

If you are under 18, the cost depends on your age. A license for someone 16 or 17 costs $30 and is valid until age 18. A license for someone under 16 costs $15 and is valid for two years.

You pay the fee at the DPS office when you pass both tests. The office will take your photo and issue your license on the spot. You will receive it in the mail within two weeks.

Getting a learner's permit before the driving test

A learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult before you take the driving test. You do not have to get one — you can go straight to the driving test — but most people get a permit first to build confidence and driving hours.

To get a learner's permit, you bring the same documents as you would for a license (identity, residency, Social Security proof), pass the written test, and pay a fee of $16. You do not take a driving test for the permit. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign a consent form.

Once you have the permit, you can drive on public roads as long as a licensed adult 21 or older is in the front seat with you. You cannot drive alone. If you are under 18, you must hold the permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test for your license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the driving test in a vehicle with an automatic transmission if I learned in a manual?

Yes. If you pass the driving test in an automatic, your license will have a restriction that you can only drive automatics. If you want to drive a manual, you will need to take the driving test again in a manual vehicle.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake it, but you will have to schedule another appointment. Wait times vary by location, but it is usually several days to a few weeks. You do not have to retake the written test — your written test score stays valid for a certain period while you schedule the driving test again.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I bring something else?

You do not have to bring your card. A W-2, 1099, pay stub, or other document showing your full Social Security number works just as well. The DPS accepts several forms of proof.

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

Yes. You will need to bring additional documents to prove your identity and residency. Contact your local DPS office to ask which documents they accept for people without a Social Security number.

How long does the whole process take at the DPS office?

Plan for about 45 minutes to an hour from check-in to walking out with your photo taken and fee paid. Wait times depend on how busy the office is — some offices are busier at certain times of day or on certain days of the week. Arriving early in the morning or mid-week often means shorter waits.