What documents and information you need to bring
To get a learner's permit in Texas, you will need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number to a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. The identity document must be an original or certified copy — a photocopy alone will not work. Acceptable identity documents include a birth certificate, passport, consular report of birth, or certificate of naturalization.
For proof of residency, bring a document dated within the last 90 days that shows your name and current Texas address. A utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement will work. You do not need a separate document for Social Security number if your birth certificate shows it, but if it does not, bring a Social Security card or a W-2 form.
You will also need to know your Texas driver's license number if you have one, or your ID number if you have a Texas ID card. If you do not have either, you can still proceed — the DPS will assign you a number during the process.
Key Takeaways
- You must be at least 15 years old to get a learner's permit in Texas, and you need an original or certified copy of a birth certificate or passport as proof of identity.
- Bring proof of residency dated within the last 90 days, such as a utility bill or lease, along with proof of your Social Security number.
- You will take a written test on traffic laws and road signs at the DPS office; study materials are free on the Texas DPS website.
- The permit costs a fee that varies depending on how long you want it valid, and you must pass a vision screening before you leave the office.
- Once you have your permit, you can only drive when a licensed adult 21 or older is in the front seat with you.
Age requirements and when you can start driving
You must be at least 15 years old to get a learner's permit in Texas. There is no upper age limit — adults can also get a learner's permit if they need one. If you are under 18, you will need a parent or legal guardian to sign your process at the DPS office; they do not need to be present, but their signature must be on the form.
Once you have your permit, you can drive only when a licensed adult who is 21 years old or older is sitting in the front seat next to you. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. These restrictions stay in place for the entire time you hold the learner's permit.
The written test and what it covers
The written test at the DPS office has 30 questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to answer at least 21 questions correctly to pass. The test is given on a computer at the DPS office — you do not take it online or by mail.
The test covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking laws, what different road signs mean, and how to handle hazardous driving situations. You can study for free using the Texas Driver Handbook, which is available as a PDF on the Texas DPS website. Many people also use practice tests online, though the official handbook is the most reliable source for what will actually appear on the exam.
If you do not pass on your first try, you can retake the test the same day or come back another day. There is no limit to how many times you can take it, though you will pay the test fee each time.
Vision screening and medical requirements
Before you leave the DPS office with your permit, you will have your vision tested. You must be able to see at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without corrective lenses like glasses or contacts. If you wear glasses or contacts, wear them to your appointment — the vision test will be done with them on if that is how you normally drive.
If you fail the vision screening, you will not receive your permit that day. You can return after you have seen an eye doctor and have a corrected vision that meets the requirement. Bring documentation from the eye doctor if you have had a recent exam, though the DPS will conduct their own screening regardless.
There are no other medical tests required for a learner's permit in Texas. You do not need a physical exam or doctor's note unless the DPS has a specific reason to request one.
Fees and how long your permit is valid
The cost of a learner's permit in Texas depends on how long you want it to be valid. A permit valid for one year costs less than a permit valid for five years. The exact fee amounts change periodically, so check the Texas DPS website or call your local DPS office for current pricing before you go in.
You can pay by cash, check, or debit card at most DPS offices. Some offices also accept credit cards, but this varies by location. Ask when you call to confirm what payment methods your local office takes.
Your permit will have an expiration date printed on it. You can renew it before it expires by returning to the DPS office with your current permit and paying the renewal fee. You do not have to retake the written test to renew.
Where to go and what to bring on the day of your appointment
Find your nearest Texas DPS office by visiting the Texas DPS website and using their office locator tool. You can walk in without an appointment at most offices, though some locations now use an online scheduling system. Check your local office's website or call ahead to see if you need to schedule a time slot.
Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or damaged. Arrive early — DPS offices can have long wait times, especially on weekends and after school hours. Bring your Social Security card or other proof of your number, even if your birth certificate has it listed, because the DPS staff may ask for it.
If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian does not need to be there in person, but they must sign the process form before you submit it. You can have them sign it at home and bring it with you, or some DPS offices will have a parent sign it over the phone while you are there — ask when you call.
Restrictions that come with your learner's permit
A learner's permit in Texas comes with specific driving restrictions that you must follow. You can only drive when a licensed adult 21 or older is in the front seat with you. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., even with a supervising adult present. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, except in a genuine emergency.
These restrictions are the law, not just recommendations. If you are stopped by a police officer and you are violating any of these rules, you can be cited and fined. Breaking the rules can also delay when you are able to get your full driver's license.
The restrictions remain in place for the entire time you hold the learner's permit. Once you pass the driving test and receive your full license, the restrictions no longer explore (though some restrictions return if you are under 18 and have held your license for less than six months).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take a driver's education course before I get my learner's permit?
No, a driver's education course is not required to get a learner's permit in Texas. You can take the written test and get your permit without one. However, if you are under 18, completing a driver's education course can lower your car insurance rates and may be required by your school or parents.
What happens if I fail the written test?
You can retake the test the same day or return another day. There is no waiting period between attempts, and there is no limit to how many times you can take it. You will pay the test fee each time you take it.
Can I drive on the highway with my learner's permit?
Yes, you can drive on the highway with a learner's permit as long as a licensed adult 21 or older is in the front seat with you. There are no speed limit restrictions specific to learner's permits — you must follow the posted speed limits like any other driver.
What if I lose my learner's permit?
Go to a DPS office and request a replacement. Bring your proof of identity and residency, just as you did for the original permit. You will pay a replacement fee, which is usually lower than the original permit fee. You do not have to retake the written test.
How long can I keep my learner's permit before I have to get a full license?
There is no time limit on how long you can hold a learner's permit in Texas. You can keep it as long as it is valid and you have not yet passed the driving test for a full license. However, if you are under 18, you must hold a learner's permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test for a full license.