Driver's License in Texas

Earning a Texas driver's license is a major step toward independence and opportunity. This guide walks you through the process, from eligibility and education to testing and final issuance, so you can prepare confidently and avoid delays.

Driver licensing in Texas is managed by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). Requirements vary by age, experience, and residency status, so understanding what applies to you will help streamline the process. Most applicants progress through driver education, permit stages, required testing, and final licensing, each with specific rules and timelines.

Age-Based License Categories in Texas

Texas issues licenses based on age, with different requirements for each group. Your age determines which pathway you'll follow, what restrictions apply, and what education you must complete before getting behind the wheel.

Teen Drivers (Ages 15–17)

Texas uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system to introduce driving privileges gradually. This structured approach helps young drivers build experience safely while limiting high-risk situations.

Age 15: Learner License

After completing Phase 1 of driver education, teens may apply for a learner license. This allows supervised driving with a licensed adult (21 or older) in the front seat. The learner license is valid for two years but must be held for at least six months before advancing to the next stage.

Age 16: Provisional License

After completing all driver education requirements and holding a learner license for six months, teens may apply for a provisional license. Restrictions apply, including no driving between midnight and 5 a.m. (unless for work, school, or emergencies) and no more than one non-family passenger under 21 during the first year.

Age 18: Full Unrestricted License

All provisional restrictions are lifted once you turn 18. Drivers may apply for a full, unrestricted Class C license and enjoy complete driving privileges without passenger or time-of-day limitations.

Adult Drivers (Ages 18–24)

Drivers under 25 must complete a state-approved driver education course, even if they have prior driving experience from another state or country. After completing the classroom portion and passing the written test, applicants may schedule the driving test once all education requirements are met. This requirement cannot be waived regardless of previous experience.

Adults 25 and Older

Driver education is not mandatory for applicants 25 and older, but both the written and driving tests are still required. While optional, driver education is strongly recommended for new or infrequent drivers, especially those who haven't driven in years or are new to driving on the right side of the road.

Driver Education Requirements

Texas driver education prepares new drivers with essential knowledge and practical skills. The program includes both classroom learning and hands-on training.

Classroom Instruction

Covers traffic laws, road signs, defensive driving techniques, right-of-way rules, and the effects of alcohol and drugs on driving ability. The curriculum is standardized across all approved providers to ensure consistent quality.

Behind-the-Wheel Training

Provides hands-on driving experience with a certified instructor, focusing on vehicle control, parking techniques, highway merging, lane changes, and emergency procedures. Instructors evaluate your progress and provide personalized feedback.

Course Options

All courses must be state-approved by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Upon completion, you'll receive a certificate of completion. Keep it safe, as it's required for your license application and is valid for 90 days from issuance.

Application Process

Visit your local DPS driver's license office with the required documents. Arriving early is recommended, especially during peak seasons like summer when teen applicants flood offices.

Required Documents

You'll need proof of identity (certified birth certificate, valid passport, or naturalization certificate), proof of Social Security number (Social Security card or W-2 form), and two documents proving Texas residency (utility bill, bank statement, lease agreement, or property tax statement). Documents must show your current legal name and address.

At the Office

Complete the application form carefully, ensuring all information matches your supporting documents. Pay the applicable fee (generally $11–$32 depending on license type), provide fingerprints for the state database, and have your photo taken for the license. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks after approval.

Medical and Vision Requirements

All applicants must pass a vision screening showing at least 20/40 visual acuity with or without corrective lenses. If you use glasses or contacts, bring them with you. Those who don't meet the standard may be issued a restricted license requiring corrective lenses while driving.

Medical Documentation

Some applicants may need additional medical documentation if they have conditions that could affect driving, such as epilepsy, diabetes requiring insulin, heart conditions, or medications causing drowsiness or impairment. Your doctor may need to complete a medical evaluation form.

Written Knowledge Test

The written exam covers traffic laws, road signs, pavement markings, and safe driving practices. It consists of 30 multiple-choice questions, with 21 correct answers required to pass (70% passing score). You have three attempts before a mandatory waiting period.

Test Preparation

Study the Texas Driver Handbook available free online or at DPS offices. Focus on speed limits, right-of-way rules, traffic signs and signals, safe following distances, and sharing the road with motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians. Practice tests are available online to help you prepare.

What Happens If You Fail

If you don't pass on your first attempt, you can retake the test the same day or reschedule. After three failures, you must wait before attempting again and may be required to complete additional driver education.

Driving Skills Test

The road test evaluates real-world driving skills, including pre-drive vehicle inspection (lights, signals, horn, brakes), vehicle control and smooth acceleration/braking, proper traffic interaction and lane positioning, parking skills including parallel parking, and hazard recognition with appropriate responses.

Vehicle Requirements

Use a properly registered, insured, and inspected vehicle that you are comfortable driving. The vehicle must have valid registration and insurance documentation, functioning seat belts for all occupants, working turn signals, brake lights, and headlights, and adequate mirrors. Rental cars or borrowed vehicles are acceptable if properly documented.

Test Day Tips

Arrive early with all required documents and allow extra time for check-in. Be well-rested and focused; nerves are normal, but exhaustion impairs performance. Follow the examiner's instructions carefully without arguing or making excuses. Use turn signals for every lane change and turn, obey all speed limits and traffic signs, and check mirrors and blind spots frequently.

After the Test

If you pass, congratulations! You'll receive a temporary paper license to use until your permanent card arrives by mail. If you don't pass, the examiner will explain which skills need improvement. You can retake the test after additional practice, and there's no limit to retake attempts.

Special Circumstances

Drivers 18 and older with a valid, unexpired license from another U.S. state may be able to transfer it without retesting. You'll still need to provide documentation, pass the vision screening, and pay applicable fees. Some states have reciprocity agreements that simplify the process.

Military Personnel and Families

Active-duty military members and their families may qualify for special provisions related to residency requirements and timelines. Military IDs can serve as proof of identity, and deployment may extend certain deadlines. Contact DPS for specific military accommodations.

International Drivers

Most international drivers must meet standard Texas requirements, including education, testing, and documentation. International driving permits are for short-term visitors only and typically valid for up to one year. If you plan to reside in Texas, you must obtain a Texas license within 90 days.

License Fees and Costs

Additional costs may include driver education courses ($100–$400), retesting fees if applicable, or vehicle rental for the road test if you don't have access to an appropriate vehicle.

After You're Licensed

New drivers must follow all applicable restrictions based on their license type. Learner license holders can only drive with a supervising adult. Provisional license holders face passenger and time restrictions. Violations can result in suspension, fines, or penalties that may delay full licensing.

Keeping Your License Current

Texas driver's licenses are valid for six years and must be renewed before expiration. Keep your license current, update your address with DPS within 30 days of moving (online or in person), and replace lost or stolen licenses promptly to avoid driving without proper documentation.

Building Good Driving Habits

Your license is just the beginning. Continue developing safe driving habits, avoid distractions like phones and texting, never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, maintain your vehicle properly, and stay current on traffic laws that may change over time.