What You Need Before You Start
Texas issues learner's permits through the Department of Public Safety (DPS), and you'll need to visit a DPS office in person to complete the process. You cannot do this entirely online. Before you go, gather your documents: proof of identity (a birth certificate, passport, or consular report of birth), proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days), and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
If you're under 18, you'll also need a completed form DL-44 (process for Texas Driver License or Permit), signed by a parent or legal guardian. You can read this form from the DPS website or pick one up at any DPS office. Bring the original documents or certified copies—photocopies alone won't work for identity or residency proof.
The fee for a learner's permit is $16, and DPS accepts cash, check, or debit card at most offices. Some offices may have different payment options, so call ahead if you want to confirm. The permit itself is valid for two years from the date of issue.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a DPS office in person with original or certified copies of your birth certificate or passport, proof of residency, and your Social Security number.
- If you're under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign form DL-44 before you arrive at the office.
- The written test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs, and you need to score at least 70 percent to pass.
- Your learner's permit is valid for two years and allows you to drive only with a licensed adult 21 or older in the front seat.
- Wait times at DPS offices vary widely; visiting early in the week or early in the day usually means shorter lines.
The Written Test and What It Covers
At the DPS office, you'll take a written test on a computer or paper, depending on the location. The test has 30 questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to answer at least 21 questions correctly (70 percent) to pass. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day at most offices, though some may require you to wait a few hours or return another day.
The test draws from the Texas Driver Handbook, which you can read free from the DPS website or pick up at any DPS office. Study the sections on right-of-way, speed limits, parking rules, and what different road signs mean. Many people find it helpful to take practice tests online—several free versions are available through the DPS website and other educational sites.
You'll take the test in English unless you request an interpreter or a test in another language. DPS offers tests in Spanish and several other languages; call your local DPS office to confirm which languages are available there.
Vision Screening and the In-Person Process
When you arrive at the DPS office, staff will check your documents and have you complete form DL-44 if you haven't already. You'll then go through a vision screening—this is a quick test to make sure you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision screening, you may be required to get a doctor's statement before DPS will issue your permit.
After the vision screening, you'll take the written test. Once you pass, DPS will take your photograph for the permit. The photo is printed on your physical permit card, which you'll receive the same day or within a few days, depending on the office. Some offices issue permits on the spot; others mail them to your address within a week.
The entire process—from arriving at the office to leaving with your permit—usually takes 30 minutes to two hours, depending on how busy the office is. Weekday mornings and early afternoons tend to be less crowded than late afternoons or Saturdays.
Restrictions on Your Learner's Permit
A Texas learner's permit comes with specific rules you must follow. You can only drive when a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old is sitting in the front seat next to you. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive with only passengers your own age. This rule applies even if those passengers have their own licenses.
You also cannot use a cell phone or mobile device while driving, even hands-free, except in a genuine emergency. This is a stricter rule than applies to licensed drivers in Texas. Additionally, you must follow all traffic laws—speed limits, stop signs, traffic lights—just as a licensed driver would.
Your learner's permit does not allow you to drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you must carry your permit with you whenever you drive. If you're pulled over and don't have it, you can face a ticket.
How Long You Can Hold a Learner's Permit
Your learner's permit is valid for two years from the date DPS issues it. During this time, you can practice driving and build experience before taking the road test for your full driver's license. You don't have to wait the full two years—you can take the road test as soon as you feel ready, but Texas law requires you to hold a learner's permit for at least 30 days before you can take that test.
If your permit expires before you pass the road test, you'll need to renew it. You can renew in person at a DPS office or, in some cases, online through the DPS website. Renewal fees and requirements vary, so check the DPS website or call your local office for details.
If you turn 18 while holding a learner's permit, the permit remains valid until its expiration date. You don't need to reapply or get a new one just because you've reached 18.
Finding Your Nearest DPS Office and Scheduling
Texas has DPS offices in most cities and towns. You can find the office nearest you by visiting the DPS website and using their office locator tool, or by calling 1-800-252-8371. Some offices allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can reduce your wait time significantly. If your local office offers appointments, book one in advance rather than walking in without one.
If you can't find an appointment slot at your nearest office, try offices in neighboring towns—they may have more availability. Keep in mind that some smaller offices have limited hours, so check the hours before you go. Many offices are closed on Sundays and some holidays.
If you're unable to visit an office in person due to a disability or other hardship, contact your local DPS office to ask about alternative arrangements. Some offices may be able to work with you on a case-by-case basis.
What Happens After You Pass
Once you receive your learner's permit, you can begin practicing with a licensed adult. Many people use this time to build confidence and experience before taking the road test for a full driver's license. You'll need to log practice hours—Texas doesn't legally require a minimum number of practice hours for adults, but teens under 18 must complete at least 30 hours of supervised driving, with at least 10 of those hours at night, before they can take the road test.
When you're ready to take the road test, you'll return to a DPS office with your learner's permit, proof of residency, and a vehicle that's registered and insured. The road test itself takes about 20 to 30 minutes and covers basic driving skills like parking, turning, and following traffic laws. If you pass, DPS will issue your driver's license on the spot or mail it to you within a few days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a learner's permit if I'm over 18?
Yes. Adults 18 and older can get a learner's permit, though the rules are slightly different. You don't need a parent's signature, and you don't have to log supervised driving hours before taking the road test. You still need to visit a DPS office in person with the same documents and pass the written test.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake the test the same day at most DPS offices, though some may ask you to wait a few hours or return another day. There's no additional fee for retakes at most offices. Study the Texas Driver Handbook between attempts and focus on the areas where you struggled.
Do I need a Social Security number to get a learner's permit?
You need either a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. If you don't have either, contact your local DPS office to ask about other forms of identification you might use instead.
Can I use my learner's permit to drive out of state?
A Texas learner's permit is only valid in Texas. If you travel to another state, you cannot drive there on a learner's permit. You would need a full driver's license from that state or your home state to drive legally outside Texas.
How much does a learner's permit cost?
The fee is $16 in Texas. DPS accepts cash, check, and debit card at most offices. Some offices may have additional payment options, so call ahead to confirm what your local office accepts.