The Texas written test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) written test is a multiple-choice exam you take before the road test. You answer 30 questions, and you need to score at least 21 correct (70 percent) to pass. The test draws from the Texas Driver Handbook, which DPS publishes free online and in print at any driver license office.

The questions focus on three main areas: recognizing road signs and what they mean, understanding right-of-way rules at intersections and in traffic situations, and knowing safe driving practices like speed limits, following distance, and how to handle emergencies. You take the test on a computer at a DPS office, and you get your score when ready after you finish.

You can retake the written test the same day if you fail, though some offices may ask you to wait a few hours. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, but each attempt costs the standard test fee.

Key Takeaways

  • You must answer at least 21 of 30 questions correctly to pass the written test.
  • All test questions come from material in the official Texas Driver Handbook, which you can read free before you test.
  • The test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices—not driving laws specific to your county.
  • You take the test on a computer at a DPS office and receive your score before you leave.
  • You can retake the test the same day if you fail, though you will pay the fee again.

Road signs and what they mean

Road sign questions make up a large portion of the test. You need to recognize the shape and color of each sign and know what it tells you to do. For example, octagon signs are always stop signs, diamond signs warn of hazards ahead, and rectangular signs give information or instructions.

The test asks about common signs like yield, speed limit, one-way, do not enter, pedestrian crossing, and school zone signs. You should also know the difference between a solid yellow line (do not cross) and a dashed yellow line (you may cross if safe). Study the sign section of the Texas Driver Handbook carefully—these questions are straightforward if you have seen the signs before.

Right-of-way rules at intersections and in traffic

Right-of-way questions test whether you know who goes first in different situations. At a four-way stop, all drivers stopped at the same time, the driver on the left yields to the driver on the right. When turning left, you yield to oncoming traffic. When entering a highway from a ramp, you yield to traffic already on the highway.

The test also covers pedestrian right-of-way, bicycle rules, and what to do when you see a school bus with red lights flashing (you must stop, even on a divided highway, unless you are on the opposite side of a divided road). These questions reward careful reading—the test often includes details that change the answer, like whether the bus lights are flashing or the road is divided.

Safe driving practices and traffic laws

Questions about safe driving practices cover speed limits, following distance, seat belt use, and how to handle common situations. You should know that the basic speed limit on Texas highways is 70 miles per hour unless posted otherwise, and that you must adjust your speed for weather and road conditions. Following distance is typically measured as one car length for every 10 miles per hour of speed, though the test may phrase this differently.

The test also asks about impaired driving, distracted driving, and what to do if your brakes fail (shift to neutral, use the parking brake gently, and look for an escape route). Know the rules for passing on a two-lane road and when you must use your headlights. These questions test judgment as much as memorization—read each question carefully to catch what it is actually asking.

How to study from the Texas Driver Handbook

The Texas Driver Handbook is available free at any DPS office, on the DPS website, and sometimes at public libraries. Read it cover to cover if you have time, but focus on the sections on road signs, right-of-way, and traffic laws. Take notes on anything that surprises you or contradicts what you thought you knew.

Many people study by reading the handbook once and hoping they remember it. A better approach is to read a section, close the book, and write down what you remember. Then check your answers against the handbook. Repeat this for each section. This method takes longer but is more effective because it forces your brain to retrieve the information rather than just recognize it.

Some DPS offices offer practice tests on their computers before you take the real test. Ask when you arrive whether this is available. Practice tests show you the format and the types of questions, which reduces anxiety on test day.

What happens if you fail the written test

If you score below 21 correct, you fail and must retake the test. You can usually retake it the same day, though some offices ask you to wait a few hours or return another day. Each retake costs the standard test fee. There is no penalty for retaking—your record shows only your passing score, not your failed attempts.

If you fail twice, take time to study more before your third attempt. Review the sections of the handbook that gave you trouble. Ask the DPS office staff whether they can tell you which topics you missed most often—some offices will give you this feedback.

What to bring and expect on test day

Bring a valid form of identification, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. You will also need to bring proof that you have completed a driver education course if you are under 18, or proof of a learner permit if required in your situation. Check the DPS website for the current list of acceptable documents, as requirements change.

Arrive at least 15 minutes early. The test takes about 10 to 15 minutes once you sit down at the computer. You will be in a quiet room with a proctor present. You cannot use your phone, notes, or any other materials during the test. The computer will not let you go back to previous questions, so answer each one before moving forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the Texas Driver Handbook during the test?

No. The test is closed-book. You must study the handbook before you arrive at the DPS office. You can bring the handbook with you to study in the waiting area before your test, but you cannot use it during the exam.

What if I do not pass the written test on my first try?

You can retake it the same day at most DPS offices, though you will pay the test fee again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the written test. Focus your next study session on the topics that gave you trouble.

Are the test questions the same every time?

No. The test draws from a large pool of questions, so each person gets a different set of 30 questions. However, all questions cover the same topics and come from the Texas Driver Handbook, so studying the handbook prepares you for any version of the test.

Do I have to pass the written test before I take the road test?

Yes. You must pass the written test first. Once you pass, you can schedule your road test. Some DPS offices let you schedule the road test on the same day you pass the written test, while others require you to schedule it for a later date.

What if I fail the road test after passing the written test?

You do not have to retake the written test. You only retake the road test. You can usually schedule another road test within a few days or weeks, depending on the office's availability.