The documents and age requirement for a Texas learner's permit

To get a Texas learner's permit, you must be at least 15 years old and bring six documents to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. The state calls this the "REAL ID package," and you cannot skip any of them — the office will turn you away if even one is missing.

You need proof of identity (a birth certificate, passport, or consulate document), proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099), proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and address), a completed DL 44 form (the process itself), proof of lawful presence (your birth certificate works if you were born in the US), and a completed parental consent form if you are under 18. Your parent or legal guardian must sign the consent form in front of a DPS officer — they cannot sign it at home and hand it to you.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 15 years old and bring all six documents from the REAL ID package to a DPS office; missing even one will delay your permit.
  • Your parent or guardian must appear in person at the DPS office to sign the parental consent form if you are under 18.
  • The DPS office will take your photo and administer a written test on traffic laws and road signs; you must score at least 70 percent to pass.
  • After you pass the written test, you will receive your learner's permit when ready, though the physical card may arrive by mail within two weeks.
  • With a learner's permit, you can drive only when a licensed driver age 21 or older is in the front passenger seat.

What to bring to the DPS office

Gather your documents before you go. The DPS website lists an acceptable documents chart that shows exactly which items count for each category — for example, a utility bill counts as proof of residency, but a credit card statement does not. Bring originals or certified copies; photocopies are not accepted. If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.

The parental consent form is DL 44 (part 2). You can read it from the DPS website or pick one up at the office, but your parent must sign it there, in front of the officer. If your parent cannot go with you, you will not be able to complete the permit that day. Some offices allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can shorten your wait time, though walk-ins are also accepted.

The written test and what it covers

After you submit your documents, a DPS officer will give you a written test on Texas traffic laws and road signs. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 21 correctly (70 percent) to pass. You can take the test in English or Spanish. The questions cover speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, what different road signs mean, and how to handle hazards like pedestrians and other vehicles.

The DPS provides a free study guide called the Texas Driver Handbook, available on the DPS website in PDF form. Many people study it for a few days before taking the test. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day at most offices, though some offices may ask you to come back another time. There is no fee to retake the test.

Getting your permit and what it allows

If you pass the written test, you will receive your learner's permit on the spot. The office will take your photo and print a temporary permit that you can use when ready. Your permanent card will arrive by mail within two weeks. Keep the temporary permit with you while you drive — it is valid until the permanent one arrives.

With a learner's permit, you can drive only when a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old is sitting in the front passenger seat next to you. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot have other passengers under 21 in the car unless they are your when ready family. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free. These rules are part of Texas's graduated licensing system, which gives new drivers supervised practice before they can drive unsupervised.

How long your learner's permit lasts

A Texas learner's permit is valid for two years from the date it is issued. You can renew it once for another two years if you have not yet passed the driving test for your license. After four years with a learner's permit, you must pass the driving test to continue driving legally.

You do not have to wait until your permit expires to take the driving test for your license. In fact, many people take the driving test within a few months of getting their permit, once they feel ready. The driving test includes a written portion (which is different from the learner's permit test) and a behind-the-wheel portion where a DPS officer watches you drive.

Fees and payment

The fee for a Texas learner's permit is $16. You pay this fee at the DPS office when you submit your documents. The office accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card. If you lose your permit and need a replacement, the fee is $11. If your permit is damaged but still readable, the office may replace it at no charge.

Renewal of an expired learner's permit also costs $16 and follows the same process as getting a new one — you will need to bring your documents and pass the written test again. Plan ahead so your permit does not expire while you are still practicing to drive.

What happens if you move or your information changes

If you move to a different address in Texas while you have a learner's permit, you do not need to get a new permit. However, you should update your address with the DPS. You can do this online through the DPS website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. If you change your name, you will need to visit a DPS office with proof of the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) and pay a $11 replacement fee.

If you move out of Texas, your learner's permit is no longer valid in Texas, but it may be recognized in other states. Check the rules of the state you are moving to, as each state has its own licensing requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. Texas does not require you to be enrolled in a public or private school to get a learner's permit. You only need to meet the age requirement (15 years old) and bring the six required documents to a DPS office.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test at most DPS offices the same day at no charge. Some offices may ask you to return another time. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, so you can keep trying until you pass.

Do I need a learner's permit before I can take driver's education?

No. You can take a driver's education course before or after you get your learner's permit. However, some driver's education courses require you to have a learner's permit to complete the behind-the-wheel portion. Check with your course provider about their requirements.

Can my parent sign the consent form at home and bring it to the office?

No. Your parent or legal guardian must sign the consent form in front of a DPS officer at the office. The officer will witness the signature. If your parent cannot go with you, you will need to reschedule your visit.

What if I turn 18 before I get my license?

You can continue using your learner's permit until it expires (two years from issue). You do not need parental consent to renew it or to take the driving test for your license once you turn 18.