Book your Texas driver's license test through the Texas Department of Public Safety website or by phone

To take a written or driving test for your Texas driver's license, you must schedule an appointment with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). You cannot walk in without one. The DPS operates a scheduling system that lets you choose your test type, location, and date online at dps.texas.gov, or you can call the DPS to book by phone at 1-844-DPS-TXDL (1-844-377-8935).

The online system is faster — you can see available slots when ready and confirm your appointment in minutes. The phone line has longer wait times, especially on weekdays, but a representative can answer questions about what documents to bring or whether you need to retake a specific test section.

You will need your Texas ID number or Social Security number to book. If you do not have a Texas ID yet, you must visit a DPS office in person first to explore for one before you can schedule a test appointment.

Key Takeaways

  • Schedule your test online at dps.texas.gov or by calling 1-844-377-8935; walk-ins are not accepted.
  • You must have a Texas ID number before booking a test appointment, which requires an in-person visit to a DPS office first.
  • Appointment availability varies by location and time of year, with rural areas and off-peak hours typically having more open slots.
  • Bring the documents listed in your appointment confirmation, or the DPS will turn you away and you will lose your appointment slot.
  • If you need to reschedule, cancel at least 24 hours before your appointment to avoid losing your fee.

What documents and information you need before booking

Before you start the scheduling process, gather your Texas ID number or Social Security number. You will also need to know which test you are taking — the written knowledge test, the driving test, or both — and whether this is your first attempt or a retake.

Have your current address ready. If you have moved recently and your Texas ID does not show your new address, update it before booking your test, because the DPS will verify your address against their records on test day.

If you are under 18, you will need a parent or guardian to sign your appointment confirmation. Some DPS offices require the parent to be present at the test itself, so check your local office's rules when you book.

How to find available appointment slots in your area

Appointment availability depends on your location and how far ahead you are booking. Urban areas like Houston, Dallas, and Austin often fill up 4 to 8 weeks in advance, especially during spring and summer when more people test. Rural counties may have slots open 2 to 3 weeks out, but fewer total appointments per week.

If your preferred location and date are full, you have three options: book at a different DPS office (even in another county if you are willing to travel), choose an earlier time slot at your preferred location, or wait and check back in a few days — cancellations happen regularly as people reschedule.

The online system updates in real time, so if you see no slots available, try again the next day or check different times of day. Early morning and late afternoon slots tend to open up more frequently than midday.

What happens when you arrive for your appointment

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Bring your appointment confirmation (printed or on your phone), your Texas ID or passport, and proof of Social Security number if you do not have a Texas ID yet. The DPS will check these documents against their records before letting you test.

If you are taking the written test, you will sit at a computer terminal and answer multiple-choice questions. The test takes 20 to 30 minutes. If you are taking the driving test, a DPS examiner will ride with you in your vehicle and score your performance on the road. That test lasts 30 to 45 minutes.

You will receive your score when ready after the written test. For the driving test, results are usually posted to your DPS record within 24 hours, and you can check online or call to confirm whether you passed.

Rescheduling or canceling your appointment

If you need to change your appointment, cancel it at least 24 hours before the scheduled time. You can cancel online through your DPS account or by calling 1-844-377-8935. If you cancel with less than 24 hours notice, you lose your fee and must pay again to book a new appointment.

If you miss your appointment without canceling, the DPS will mark you as a no-show. You will lose your fee, and you may face a waiting period before you can book another test — some offices require you to wait 7 to 14 days before rescheduling after a no-show.

Life happens. If you have a legitimate emergency, call the DPS office directly (not the main line) the morning of your test and explain. Some offices will waive the no-show penalty if you contact them before your appointment time, but this is not may provide.

What to bring and what not to bring on test day

Bring your appointment confirmation, a valid photo ID (Texas ID, passport, or military ID), and proof of your Social Security number if required. Bring your vehicle registration and proof of insurance if you are taking the driving test — the examiner will check these before you start.

Do not bring your phone into the testing area for the written test. Do not bring passengers into the vehicle during the driving test except the examiner. Do not bring study materials, notes, or any reference materials into the testing room.

If you wear glasses or contacts for driving, wear them during the driving test. If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to take the test safely (hearing loss, mobility issues, cognitive disability), contact your local DPS office before your appointment to discuss accommodations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book a test appointment if I have not passed the written test yet?

Yes. You can schedule the written test and the driving test on the same day if you want, but you will take the written test first. If you fail the written test, you will not take the driving test that day. Most people schedule them separately so they can study more between attempts.

What if I fail my test and need to retake it?

You can retake the written test when ready — some DPS offices let you schedule another appointment the same day. For the driving test, you must wait at least one day before retaking. Book your next appointment as soon as you know you failed, because slots fill quickly.

Do I have to test at the DPS office closest to my home?

No. You can book at any DPS office in Texas. If another location has earlier availability or is more convenient, you can test there. Just make sure you bring valid ID and meet any local requirements for your address.

What if the DPS website is down or I cannot get through by phone?

The DPS website occasionally goes down for maintenance, usually at night. Try again in a few hours or the next day. If the phone line is busy, keep trying — wait times are longest on Monday and Tuesday mornings. You can also visit a DPS office in person to book an appointment at the counter.

Can someone else schedule my test appointment for me?

No. You must schedule your own appointment using your ID number or Social Security number. A parent or guardian can help you navigate the website or call on your behalf, but the appointment must be in your name and you must be the one taking the test.