What You Need to Do to Get a Texas Driver's License

To get your first driver's license in Texas, you must pass a written test on traffic laws, pass a driving test, and provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). The process takes place at a DPS driver license office and typically requires an appointment. You cannot walk in without one — all Texas DPS offices now operate by appointment only.

The entire process from first visit to license in hand usually takes two to four weeks, depending on how quickly you can schedule your appointment and how soon after passing your tests you want to pick up your license. Some offices have longer wait times than others, so scheduling early matters.

Key Takeaways

  • You must schedule an appointment at a Texas DPS driver license office; walk-ins are not accepted at any location.
  • Bring original or certified copies of documents proving your identity, Texas residency, and Social Security number — a utility bill or lease counts for residency.
  • You will take a written test on traffic laws and road signs, then a driving test in your own vehicle or a DPS test vehicle, both on the same day or different days depending on the office.
  • The written test costs $16 and the driving test costs $8; you pay these fees at the office when you take each test.
  • Your license arrives by mail within two weeks of passing both tests if you pass on your first attempt.

Documents You Must Bring to Your Appointment

Texas DPS requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. You cannot get a license without all three. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work.

For identity, bring a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a consular report of birth abroad, or a foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa. A school ID or library card does not count. If you were born outside the United States, bring your original birth certificate or a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born.

For residency, bring a recent utility bill, a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a bank statement showing your current Texas address. The document must be dated within the last 30 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. If you live with someone else and are not on the lease or utility bill, bring a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the bill, plus a copy of that bill.

For Social Security, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a Social Security statement from ssa.gov. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a license, but you must bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for a number.

How to Schedule Your DPS Appointment

Go to the Texas DPS website at dps.texas.gov and click on "Driver License" in the main menu. Select "Schedule an Appointment" and enter your zip code to see which offices serve your area. Each office shows available appointment dates and times, usually two to four weeks out depending on location and season.

You can book online when ready. You will receive a confirmation email with your appointment number, date, time, and office address. Bring this confirmation or your appointment number when you arrive. If you cannot book online or prefer to call, you can phone the DPS at 1-844-DPS-TEXAS (1-844-337-8329), but wait times are often long and online booking is faster.

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Bring all required documents, your appointment confirmation, and a pen. If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present with you at the appointment.

The Written Test: What to Expect

The written test covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You answer 30 multiple-choice questions on a computer at the DPS office. You must answer at least 21 questions correctly to pass — that is a score of 70 percent. The test is offered in English and Spanish.

The DPS provides a free study guide called the Texas Driver Handbook, available as a PDF on dps.texas.gov or in print at any DPS office. Most people study this handbook for a few days before their appointment. The questions on the actual test come directly from material in the handbook, so studying it is the most direct way to prepare.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no waiting period between attempts at the same office visit, but you pay the $16 fee each time you take the test.

The Driving Test: Rules and What Happens

The driving test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. A DPS examiner sits in the passenger seat while you drive on public roads near the office. You must demonstrate that you can start the vehicle, control steering, brake smoothly, turn correctly, park, and follow traffic laws. The examiner watches for unsafe driving, failure to obey traffic signs, and inability to handle the vehicle.

You can take the test in your own vehicle or in a DPS test vehicle. If you use your own car, it must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition — the examiner will check the brakes, lights, horn, and wipers before you drive. If you use a DPS test vehicle, there is no additional fee, but availability varies by office.

You must pass the written test before you can take the driving test. Some offices let you do both on the same day; others schedule them separately. Ask at your appointment which applies to your office. If you fail the driving test, you can retake it, but you must schedule a new appointment. The $8 fee applies each time.

After You Pass: Getting Your License

Once you pass both the written and driving tests, the DPS issues you a temporary paper license on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and allows you to drive while your permanent plastic license is being made. Your permanent license arrives by mail within two weeks, usually sooner.

Check the address on your temporary license. If it is wrong, tell the examiner before you leave the office — they can correct it when ready. If you do not receive your permanent license within three weeks, contact the DPS to check the status. You can call 1-844-DPS-TEXAS or check your status online at dps.texas.gov using your driver's license number or process number.

Your Texas driver's license is valid for six years if you are under 85 years old. You can renew it by mail, online, or in person before it expires. The DPS sends renewal notices about 45 days before your license expires.

Special Situations and Additional Requirements

If you are under 18, you must complete a driver education course before you can take the driving test. This course can be taken online or in person and usually takes four to six hours. The course provider gives you a certificate of completion, which you bring to your DPS appointment. Some high schools offer driver education as part of their curriculum.

If you are 18 or older and have never held a license in any state, you do not need driver education — you can go straight to the written and driving tests. If you held a license in another state and it has been expired for more than two years, Texas treats you as a new driver and you may need to take the written test again, depending on your age.

If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive, you may need a medical evaluation form signed by a doctor. The DPS will tell you at your appointment if this is required. Some conditions may result in restrictions on your license, such as corrective lenses or hand controls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or from home?

No. Both the written test and driving test must be taken in person at a DPS driver license office. You cannot take either test remotely or by mail. You must schedule an appointment and appear at the office on your scheduled date and time.

What if I fail the driving test — how long do I have to wait to retake it?

You can retake the driving test as soon as you schedule another appointment. There is no mandatory waiting period. However, appointment availability varies by office, so you may have to wait one to four weeks for the next available slot. You pay the $8 fee each time you take the test.

Do I need to bring my own car for the driving test?

No. You can use a DPS test vehicle if one is available at your office. However, availability varies — some offices have test vehicles and some do not. Call ahead or ask when you schedule your appointment. If you use your own vehicle, it must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition.

What if I move to a different Texas city before my license arrives?

Update your address with the DPS before you move. You can do this online at dps.texas.gov, by phone at 1-844-DPS-TEXAS, or in person at any DPS office. Your license will be mailed to your new address. If it has already been mailed to your old address, contact the DPS and they can reissue it to your new address.

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

Yes. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one. You can request this letter online at ssa.gov or by calling the Social Security Administration. Bring the letter to your DPS appointment along with all other required documents.