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

To get a Texas driver's license, 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 two visits — one for the written test and one for the driving test — though some offices allow both on the same day if you pass the written exam first.

Texas does not issue licenses to people under 18 without parental consent, and minors must complete a driver education course before taking the written test. If you are 18 or older and have never held a license in any state, you follow the same path as a minor but without the course requirement.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring original or certified documents proving your identity, Texas residency, and Social Security number to your first DPS visit.
  • The written test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the official DPS handbook available free online.
  • The driving test is conducted by a DPS examiner and lasts about 20 minutes; you must use a vehicle registered in Texas with valid insurance.
  • Processing times vary by office location, and some offices require appointments while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • If you fail either test, you can retake it after waiting a set period, which varies depending on which test you failed.

Documents You Must Bring to the DPS Office

Bring an original or certified copy of one document that proves your identity and residency at the same time. A Texas ID card, passport, or military ID works for identity. For residency, you need a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail showing your current address. If your identity document does not show your Texas address, bring both a separate identity document and a separate residency document.

You must also provide your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form. If you do not have any of these, you can sign an affidavit at the DPS office, though this may delay processing.

If you were born outside the United States, bring your birth certificate, passport, or visa. If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the legal document showing the change.

The Written Test: What to Study and How It Works

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 some DPS offices offer it in other languages by appointment.

Study using the official Texas Driver's Handbook, available free on the DPS website at dps.texas.gov. The handbook covers everything the test covers and nothing more. You can read it online, read it as a PDF, or request a printed copy at any DPS office. Many people study for one to two weeks before taking the test.

You take the test on a computer at the DPS office. The test takes about 15 minutes. If you fail, you can retake it after three business days have passed. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the written test.

The Driving Test: Vehicle Requirements and What the Examiner Checks

The driving test lasts about 20 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and responding to road conditions. The examiner sits in the passenger seat and directs you through a route in the area around the DPS office. You must demonstrate that you can start the vehicle, steer, brake, accelerate smoothly, turn, park, and follow traffic signals and signs.

You must bring a vehicle that is registered in Texas, has valid liability insurance, and passes a safety inspection. The vehicle must have working brakes, steering, lights, wipers, mirrors, and seat belts. Bring proof of registration and insurance — your insurance card or a printed copy from your insurer's website works. The vehicle does not have to be registered in your name, but the person whose name is on the registration must be present.

If you fail the driving test, you can retake it after one business day has passed. You must pay the test fee again. Most people pass on the second or third attempt.

Timeline: How Long the Process Takes

The total time from your first visit to receiving your license in the mail depends on the DPS office and whether you pass both tests on your first try. If you pass both tests at your first visit, the DPS mails your license within 7 to 10 business days. If you fail one test and retake it a few days later, add another week to that timeline.

Wait times at DPS offices vary widely. Some offices in rural areas have little wait and may see you within 30 minutes of arrival. Offices in major cities like Houston, Dallas, and Austin often have waits of two to four hours, even with an appointment. Check the DPS website for current wait times at your local office before you go.

If you need your license before the mail arrives, you can request a temporary paper license at the DPS office after you pass both tests. This temporary license is valid for 45 days and works for driving and identification purposes.

Appointments, Walk-Ins, and Office Locations

Some DPS offices require appointments, which you can schedule on the DPS website. Other offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Check your local office's policy before you go. If your office requires an appointment and you do not have one, you will be turned away.

You can find your nearest DPS driver license office on the DPS website by entering your zip code. The office locator shows hours, phone numbers, and whether appointments are required. If you live in a rural area far from any office, some DPS offices offer mobile services on certain days — check the website or call ahead.

What Happens If You Fail a Test

If you fail the written test, you can retake it after three business days. You pay the test fee again, which is $16 as of 2024, though this amount may change. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the written test.

If you fail the driving test, you can retake it after one business day. You pay the test fee again. You are allowed to fail the driving test up to three times before the DPS requires you to retake the written test as well. If you fail the driving test four times, you must wait 30 days before trying again, and you must pass the written test again before you can take the driving test.

If you are struggling with either test, consider taking a professional driving course. Many driving schools in Texas offer classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. This is not required by the DPS, but it can help you understand the material or build confidence before your test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test and driving test on the same day?

Yes, if you pass the written test, you can take the driving test the same day at most DPS offices. However, you must have your vehicle and insurance documents with you. If you fail the written test, you cannot take the driving test until three business days have passed.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can sign an affidavit at the DPS office stating that you do not have a Social Security number. The DPS will issue you a license, but processing may take longer. Bring as much identity and residency documentation as you can.

Do I have to take a driver education course?

Only if you are under 18. If you are 18 or older, the course is not required. However, some insurance companies offer discounts if you complete an approved defensive driving course, which is different from the required course for minors.

What if I fail the driving test three times?

After three failures, you must wait 30 days before taking the driving test again. When you return, you must pass the written test again before you can take the driving test. This resets your failure count.

How much does a Texas driver's license cost?

A standard five-year license costs $33 as of 2024. A six-year license for people 85 and older costs $16. Fees may change; check the DPS website for current pricing. The written test fee and driving test fee are separate and cost $16 each.