The Texas written test has 30 questions, and you need to answer at least 21 correctly to pass

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) written exam is a 30-question multiple-choice test. Each question has four answer choices. You must score at least 70 percent — meaning 21 correct answers — to pass and move forward with your road test.

The test covers traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and what to do in emergency situations. All questions come from the Texas Driver Handbook, which DPS publishes free online and updates regularly. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day at most DPS offices, though some locations may have limits on how many times you can test in one visit.

Key Takeaways

  • The written test contains exactly 30 multiple-choice questions, with four options per question.
  • You must answer at least 21 questions correctly (70 percent) to pass and schedule your road test.
  • All test content comes from the Texas Driver Handbook, which you can read free on the DPS website before you test.
  • If you do not pass, you can usually retake the test the same day, though wait times and office policies vary.
  • The test is offered in English and Spanish, and some DPS offices offer it in other languages by appointment.

What topics the 30 questions cover

The questions are divided across several areas of driving knowledge. You will see questions about traffic signs and their meanings, right-of-way rules, speed limits and when they change, parking rules, and what to do at traffic lights and stop signs. Other questions test your knowledge of seat belt laws, distracted driving, driving under the influence, and how to handle skids or brake failure.

DPS does not publish the exact breakdown of how many questions cover each topic, so you cannot predict which areas will appear on your specific test. This is why studying the entire Texas Driver Handbook is the standard approach — it ensures you are prepared for any combination of questions.

How the test is administered at DPS offices

You take the test at a DPS Driver License office in person. Most offices offer the test on a walk-in basis during business hours, though some locations accept appointments. You will sit at a computer terminal and answer the 30 questions one at a time. The test is timed — you have a set window to complete it, though most people finish in 20 to 30 minutes.

After you finish, the computer scores your test when ready and tells you whether you passed or failed. If you pass, you receive a score report and can schedule your road test. If you fail, you will be told your score and can usually retake the test after a short wait, depending on the office's policy.

Preparing for the 30-question test

The Texas Driver Handbook is the official study material. You can read it as a PDF from the DPS website at no cost, or request a printed copy at any DPS office. Reading through it once gives you a solid foundation, but most people benefit from reading it twice — once to learn the material and once to review weak areas.

Many people also use practice tests, which are available free on the DPS website and through third-party study sites. Practice tests use real questions from past exams and help you get used to the format and pacing. Taking a practice test under timed conditions — the way you will take the real test — is especially helpful for managing test anxiety.

What happens if you do not pass on your first try

Failing the written test does not affect your ability to test again. You can retake it the same day at most DPS offices, though you may need to wait and pay the test fee again. Some offices limit the number of retakes in a single day, so ask the staff when you arrive.

If you fail multiple times, DPS may require you to wait a certain number of days before testing again, or to complete a driver education course. The exact rules depend on your age and how many times you have failed. Ask the DPS staff or check the DPS website for the current policy in your situation.

Language options and accessibility

The test is offered in English and Spanish at all DPS offices. If you need the test in another language, you can request an appointment with an interpreter at most locations, though availability varies by office and you may need to provide advance notice.

If you have a disability that affects your ability to take a computer-based test, contact your local DPS office before you arrive. Staff can discuss accommodations such as extra time, a reader, or a different test format. Bring documentation of your disability so the office can process your request quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my phone or notes during the test?

No. You cannot bring any materials into the testing area, and phones must be turned off and put away. DPS staff monitor the testing area to may support all test-takers follow the rules. Using unauthorized materials or attempting to cheat will result in when ready disqualification and may affect your ability to test again.

How long do I have to complete the 30 questions?

Most DPS offices give you 30 to 45 minutes to complete the test, though the exact time limit varies by location. You do not need to rush — most people finish in 20 to 30 minutes. If you finish early, you can review your answers before submitting.

What if I fail the written test but pass the road test later?

You must pass the written test before you can take the road test. If you have not passed the written exam, DPS will not schedule a road test appointment. You need to pass the written test first, then schedule the road test separately.

Do I need to study all 30 questions, or just the ones most likely to appear?

You should study the entire Texas Driver Handbook. DPS draws questions from all areas of the handbook, and you cannot predict which topics will appear on your test. Studying everything ensures you are ready for any combination of questions.

Is the test the same every time I take it?

No. Each test is a different set of 30 questions drawn from a larger pool. This is why retaking the test after you fail is not just repeating the same questions — you will see new ones. However, all questions come from the same Texas Driver Handbook, so studying the handbook prepares you for any version of the test.