How to Get Your Texas Learner's Permit (DPS Guide)
Everything you need to apply for a Learner License through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) — the age requirement, documents to bring, the knowledge test, fees, and what comes next.
Requirements & minimum age
To get a Learner License in Texas, you must be at least 15 (with driver education) and apply in person at the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). Applicants under 18 generally need a parent or guardian to sign, and many states also require enrollment in or completion of a driver-education course.
Texas's learner license knowledge test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe-driving rules from the Texas Driver Handbook. Teens complete a driver education course and log supervised practice before the road test.
Documents to bring to the DPS
Bring original or certified documents (not photocopies) that establish:
- Proof of identity (an original or certified document such as a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or other DPS-accepted primary/secondary ID)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence in the United States
- Social Security number (verified electronically with the Social Security Administration)
- Proof of Texas residency (documents showing your Texas home address, such as a utility bill, lease, or parent's supporting documents)
- Verification of school enrollment and attendance (VOE form) showing at least 90% attendance, or a high school diploma or GED, for applicants under 18
- Texas Driver Education Certificate (DE-964) confirming enrollment in and classroom completion of an approved driver education course, plus a parent or legal guardian present to give consent or a notarized signature on the application (applicants under 18)
The knowledge test
In Texas, the knowledge test can be taken online (as well as in person). A written knowledge exam of multiple-choice questions on traffic laws, road signs, and safe-driving rules, which teens may take through their certified driver education school or at a DPS office, followed by a vision screening.
Rehearse with our free Texas practice test — 25 random questions with instant explanations.
Start the Texas Practice Test →Fees
The DPS charges $16 for the permit. Amounts can change and sometimes include separate knowledge-test or service fees, so verify the current cost with the DPS before you visit.
What happens after you pass (graduated licensing)
Texas uses a graduated driver licensing system: a teen begins with a Learner License at age 15 that requires a licensed adult 21 or older in the front passenger seat and prohibits cell phone use while driving. After holding the learner license for at least six months and completing behind-the-wheel training, a teen 16 or older may apply for a Provisional License, which limits nighttime driving and the number of teen passengers until age 18.
Texas permit FAQ
How many questions is the Texas permit test?
The DPS knowledge test has about 30 questions, and you need 21 of 30 (70%) to pass. Our free practice test uses a random set of 25 questions so you can rehearse before the real thing.
Can you take the Texas permit test online?
In Texas, the knowledge test can be taken online (as well as in person). A written knowledge exam of multiple-choice questions on traffic laws, road signs, and safe-driving rules, which teens may take through their certified driver education school or at a DPS office, followed by a vision screening.
What do I need to bring to the DPS?
Bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Texas residency, plus anything required for a Learner License. Applicants under 18 also need parental or guardian consent. See the full checklist above.
How old do you have to be to get a Texas permit?
You can apply for a Learner License at 15 (with driver education) in Texas, provided you meet the DPS's other requirements.
How much does a Texas permit cost?
The DPS charges $16 for the permit. Fees can change and may include separate testing or service charges, so confirm the current amount with the DPS.
What happens if I fail the Texas permit test?
If you do not pass the knowledge test, you must wait 24 hours before trying again, and there is no set limit on the number of attempts. Retesting may be done through your driver education program or at a DPS office.
Official sources: www.dps.texas.gov · www.dps.texas.gov · www.dps.texas.gov