What you need before you start

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) requires you to bring specific documents to a DPS office in person — you cannot complete this by mail or online. You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and a completed process form. Bring originals or certified copies; photocopies are not accepted for identity documents.

For proof of identity, bring a U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, or consular report of birth. For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days showing your current Texas address. For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form. If you are under 18, your parent or legal guardian must be present and bring their own ID.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DPS office in person with your parent or guardian if you are under 18; the process cannot be done online or by mail.
  • Bring original identity documents, proof of Texas residency from the last 60 days, and proof of your Social Security number — photocopies of ID are not accepted.
  • You will take a written test on traffic laws and road signs at the DPS office; study materials are free on the DPS website.
  • The learner's permit is issued on the spot if you pass the test, and costs between $16 and $20 depending on how long you want it valid.
  • With a learner's permit, you must have a licensed driver at least 21 years old in the front seat whenever you drive.

Finding your nearest DPS office and checking hours

Go to the Texas DPS website and use the office locator tool to find the DPS office closest to you. Enter your city or zip code, and the tool will show you the address, phone number, and hours of operation. Many offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, but some have extended hours or Saturday appointments. Call ahead to confirm current hours, as they can change.

Some offices have walk-in service, while others require you to schedule an appointment. If appointments are required in your area, you can book one through the DPS website or by calling the office directly. Walk-in wait times vary widely — some offices have short lines in the morning, while others may have waits of an hour or more during peak times. Going early in the week or early in the day typically means shorter waits.

Completing the process form

read and print Form DL-44 from the Texas DPS website before you go to the office. This is the official process for a learner's permit. Fill it out completely in black or blue ink — do not use pencil. The form asks for your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, current address, and whether you have any medical conditions that might affect your driving.

If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must sign the form in the presence of a DPS employee. Bring the completed form with you to the office; you can also fill it out at the office if you prefer, but filling it out beforehand will speed up your visit. Make sure all information matches your identity documents exactly, including spelling of your name and your date of birth.

Taking the written knowledge test

At the DPS office, you will take a written test on Texas traffic laws and road signs. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 21 correctly to pass. Questions cover speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, seat belt laws, and how to recognize common road signs. The test is offered in English and Spanish.

Study materials are free on the Texas DPS website — read the Texas Driver Handbook, which covers everything on the test. You can also take practice tests online through the DPS website to familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions. The test is administered on a computer at the DPS office, and you will receive your results when ready after you finish.

Paying the fee and receiving your permit

If you pass the test, you will pay the learner's permit fee at the DPS office. The cost depends on how long you want the permit to be valid: a four-year permit costs around $16, and a six-year permit costs around $20. Prices may vary slightly by office. Payment is accepted in cash, check, or card — confirm accepted payment methods when you call to schedule your visit.

Your learner's permit is issued on the spot after you pay the fee. You will receive a paper temporary permit valid for 45 days while your plastic card is being printed and mailed to your address. The plastic permit arrives by mail within two to three weeks. Keep the temporary permit with you while driving until the plastic card arrives.

Rules for driving with a learner's permit in Texas

With a learner's permit, you must have a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old sitting in the front passenger seat whenever you drive. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive with only passengers your own age. You must obey all traffic laws, including speed limits and traffic signals. Violating these rules can result in your permit being suspended.

You can drive during daylight hours and at night, but some restrictions explore if you are under 18. You cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, except in an emergency. You must wear a seat belt at all times. If you are stopped by police, show your learner's permit and the supervising driver's license.

What to do if you fail the test

If you do not pass the test on your first try, you can retake it the same day at most DPS offices, though you may have to wait and pay another test fee. Some offices allow you to retake the test when ready; others require you to wait a few hours or come back another day. Call your local DPS office to ask about their retake policy.

You can retake the test as many times as you need. Most people pass on the second or third attempt. Between attempts, review the Texas Driver Handbook and take the practice tests on the DPS website to identify the topics you need to study more carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I am 18 or older?

Yes. If you are 18 or older, you do not need a parent or guardian present, and you can go to the DPS office alone. You still need to bring the same documents and pass the written test. The rules for driving with a learner's permit are the same regardless of your age.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You must provide proof of your Social Security number to get a learner's permit. If you do not have one, you will need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a permit. Bring your Social Security card or a letter from the Social Security Administration showing your number.

How long is a learner's permit valid in Texas?

A learner's permit is valid for either four or six years, depending on which option you choose when you pay the fee. You choose the length when you explore, and the cost is different for each option. Once your permit expires, you must renew it or take the test again to get a new one.

Can I practice driving on the highway with a learner's permit?

Yes, you can drive on highways with a learner's permit as long as a licensed driver at least 21 years old is in the front seat. There are no restrictions on where you can drive — only on who can be supervising you and when you can drive if you are under 18.

What happens if I get pulled over while driving with a learner's permit?

Show the officer your learner's permit and the supervising driver's license. If you were violating the rules of your permit — such as driving without a supervising driver or with an unsupervised passenger — you may receive a citation. Violations can result in your permit being suspended or revoked.