What You Need to Do to Get a Texas Learner's Permit

To get a Texas learner's permit, you visit a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, bring required documents, pass a written test on traffic laws, and pay a fee. The whole process takes about an hour. You must be at least 15 years old (or 14 years and 9 months if you are taking an approved driver education course). Once you have the permit, you can practice driving with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old sitting next to you.

Texas does not mail permits or issue them online. You must go to a DPS office yourself. The permit is valid for two years from the date you receive it, and you can renew it if you have not yet turned 18.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DPS office in person with your documents; there is no online or mail option.
  • Bring your birth certificate or passport, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
  • You will take a written test covering Texas traffic laws and road signs; you must score at least 70 percent to pass.
  • The permit fee is $16 for a two-year permit, and you pay at the DPS office when you pass the test.
  • With a learner's permit, you can only drive with a licensed adult 21 or older in the front seat next to you.

Documents You Must Bring to the DPS Office

Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, or a valid U.S. passport. If you do not have either, you can use a Certificate of Naturalization or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad. Do not bring a photocopy — DPS will not accept it.

You also need proof that you live in Texas. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address will work. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you live with a parent or guardian, you can use their utility bill or lease, but bring a signed letter from them stating that you live there.

Bring your Social Security number or, if you do not have one, your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You will need to provide this number at the DPS office. If you have neither, you can still get a permit, but you will need to fill out an additional form and the process may take longer.

The Written Test: What to Expect

The written test has 30 multiple-choice questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You have 30 minutes to complete it. You must answer at least 21 questions correctly (70 percent) to pass. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day, but you will pay the fee again.

The test covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, what different road signs mean, how to handle emergency vehicles, and rules for driving in bad weather. You can study using the Texas Driver Handbook, which DPS provides free online at the Texas DPS website. Many people also use practice tests available online to prepare.

You do not need to bring anything to take the test — the DPS office provides the test on a computer or on paper. You will sit in a testing area, and staff will explain how to mark your answers. If you pass, you will know when ready.

Finding a DPS Office and Making an Appointment

Texas has DPS offices in most cities and towns. You can find the office nearest you on the Texas DPS website by entering your city or zip code. Some offices accept walk-ins, but many now require appointments because of high volume. Check the office's hours and whether it takes appointments before you go.

To make an appointment, visit the Texas DPS website and select "Schedule an Appointment" or call the office directly. Appointments can usually be scheduled a few weeks in advance. If you walk in without an appointment, you may wait several hours or be turned away if the office is full.

Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or damaged. Arrive at least 10 minutes early. Bring a pen for filling out forms. The office will be busy, especially on weekends and after school hours, so weekday mornings are usually faster.

What Happens After You Pass and Pay

Once you pass the test, you will go to a payment window and pay the $16 fee. You can pay with cash, debit card, or credit card — check with your local office about which payment methods they accept. After you pay, staff will take your photograph for the permit.

You will receive your physical learner's permit card on the spot. It is a small plastic card with your photo, name, date of birth, and permit number. Keep it with you whenever you drive. The permit is valid for two years from the date you receive it.

Before you drive, make sure you understand the restrictions. You can only drive during daylight hours (from sunrise to sunset) with a licensed adult 21 or older in the front seat. You cannot drive on interstate highways or in heavy traffic. You must follow all traffic laws and cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free.

Renewing Your Permit Before It Expires

If you turn 18 before your permit expires, you can take the road test to get your full driver's license instead of renewing the permit. If you are still under 18 when your permit is about to expire, you can renew it at a DPS office. Bring your current permit, proof of residency, and the $16 renewal fee.

You do not have to retake the written test to renew. You will have a new photo taken, and you will receive a new permit card valid for another two years. You can renew your permit up to 30 days before it expires, so plan ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I am homeschooled?

Yes. You do not need to be enrolled in a public or private school. You must still be at least 15 years old (or 14 years and 9 months if you are taking an approved driver education course). Bring the same documents as anyone else — birth certificate, proof of residency, and Social Security number or ITIN.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it the same day at the same DPS office, but you will pay the $16 fee again. Most people pass on the second try. Study the Texas Driver Handbook and take practice tests online before you go back. You can retake the test as many times as you need.

Can my parent or guardian get the permit for me?

No. You must be present at the DPS office in person. Your parent or guardian can go with you and help with paperwork, but you must be there to take the test and have your photo taken.

Do I need a driver education course to get a learner's permit?

No. A driver education course is not required to get a permit. However, if you are 14 years and 9 months old, you must be enrolled in an approved course to get a permit at that age. If you wait until you are 15, you do not need a course.

What happens if I move to a different state while I have a Texas learner's permit?

Your Texas permit is only valid in Texas. If you move, you will need to get a learner's permit from your new state. Contact that state's Department of Motor Vehicles to find out what documents and tests you need.