What Texas Offers Online for the Driver's License Test
Texas does not offer the full road test online. You must take the written knowledge test at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office or an approved third-party testing location, and you must complete the behind-the-wheel driving test in person with an examiner in a vehicle.
However, Texas does allow you to take the written knowledge test at certain locations using a computer, and some testing sites offer online scheduling so you can reserve your test time in advance. The road test itself — where you drive with an examiner — has no online option and must happen at a DPS office or contracted testing location.
Key Takeaways
- The written knowledge test can be taken on a computer at DPS offices and some third-party testing centers, but the driving test must be done in person with an examiner.
- You can schedule your written test online through the Texas DPS website, which lets you pick your location and time slot in advance.
- You must bring your learner's permit, proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number to both the written and driving tests.
- The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices; the driving test checks your ability to handle the vehicle and follow traffic rules on public roads.
How to Schedule Your Written Test Online
Visit the Texas DPS website and look for the section on scheduling a driver's license test. You will enter your learner's permit number, date of birth, and the county where you want to test. The system shows available dates and times at testing locations near you.
Select a date and time that works for your schedule. You will receive a confirmation with your test location, date, time, and a confirmation number. Write down or save this number — you will need it when you arrive. Some locations fill up weeks in advance, especially in larger cities, so schedule as soon as you are ready to test.
If you cannot find online scheduling for your county, call the DPS office in that county directly. Not all locations offer online booking, and some rural areas may require you to call or visit in person to reserve a test time.
What to Bring to Your Written Test
Bring your learner's permit (your current Texas instruction permit), a government-issued photo ID, proof of your current address, and proof of your Social Security number. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and address. Proof of Social Security can be a Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return.
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. The testing staff will check your documents, verify your identity, and explain the test rules. You will then sit at a computer terminal and answer 30 multiple-choice questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You must score at least 21 out of 30 to pass.
What Happens After You Pass the Written Test
Once you pass, the DPS will issue you a receipt showing your passing score. This receipt is valid for a set period — typically 12 months — and allows you to schedule your driving test. You do not need to wait; you can schedule the driving test when ready if you have completed the required supervised driving hours (usually 30 hours minimum, with at least 10 at night, depending on your age).
The driving test must be scheduled at a DPS office or an approved third-party testing location. You cannot take this test online. During the driving test, an examiner will sit in the vehicle with you and evaluate your ability to start the car, follow traffic signals, change lanes, park, and respond to road hazards. The test typically lasts 20 to 30 minutes and covers both city and highway driving.
Third-Party Testing Locations in Texas
In addition to DPS offices, Texas contracts with private testing centers to administer both the written and driving tests. These include locations run by companies like Aceable and other approved vendors. Third-party centers often have more available appointment times than DPS offices and may be closer to your home.
To find a third-party testing location, visit the Texas DPS website and search for approved testing centers in your area. You can schedule your written test at one location and your driving test at another if you prefer. Fees may vary slightly between DPS offices and third-party centers, so check the cost before you book.
Common Reasons the Written Test Gets Rescheduled
If you fail the written test, you can retake it, but you must wait at least one day before scheduling another attempt. You can take the test up to five times within a 12-month period. If you do not pass within that window, your learner's permit expires and you must reapply.
If you miss your scheduled test appointment, contact the testing location as soon as possible to reschedule. Most locations allow you to reschedule online or by phone without penalty, but policies vary. If you are running late, call ahead — some examiners will wait a few minutes, but arriving more than 15 minutes late may result in a no-show.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the driving test online or by video?
No. The driving test must be completed in person with an examiner in a vehicle. Texas does not offer remote or video-based driving tests. You must drive on public roads while the examiner observes and scores your performance.
Do I need to bring my own car to the driving test?
You can bring your own vehicle or use one provided by the testing location. Check with your testing center in advance — some DPS offices and third-party centers have vehicles available for test-takers, while others require you to provide your own. Your vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake it after one day. You have up to five attempts within 12 months. If you do not pass within that period, your learner's permit expires and you must reapply from the beginning. Review the Texas Driver Handbook before your next attempt — it covers all topics on the test.
How long does the written test take?
Most test-takers finish in 15 to 30 minutes. You have up to one hour to complete the 30 questions. The actual time depends on how quickly you read and answer each question. You cannot leave and return later — once you start, you must finish in one session.
Can I use a phone or notes during the written test?
No. The testing location will not allow phones, notes, books, or any reference materials in the testing area. You must answer all questions from memory. Attempting to use outside materials will result in an automatic failure and may affect your ability to retake the test.