Complete Texas Driver's License Guide 2024

Table Of Content

Getting your Texas learner’s permit or driving license has never been easier! Learn everything to know about getting a new license. This will serve as your guide to taking the driver's seat quicker.

How to Get a Texas Driver’s License

Obtaining a Texas driver's license is essential if you live in Texas and want to drive. Follow this straightforward guide to acquire, renew, or replace your license quickly and effortlessly.

1. Obtain a Learner’s License. Get the chance to drive while supervised.
2. Acquire a Provisional License. Drive independently but with certain limitations.
3. Get a Full (Adult) License. Enjoy the freedom of driving without restrictions.

Driver’s License in Texas

There are different types of licenses available in Texas, depending on the vehicle you want to drive.

Class C Driver’s License

A Class C driver's license is a standard license. It authorizes you to:

• Drive personal vehicles with a GVWR under 26,001 pounds
• The towing of trailers up to 10,000 pounds GVWR
• The towing of farm trailers that does not exceed 20,000 pounds GVWR

A Class C Commercial Driver License is required for commercial operation of these vehicles. Read the Texas Driver’s Handbook here for free to understand the license process.

Class B Driver’s License

A Class B license permits the following:

• The operation of a single vehicle with a GVWR exceeding 26,001 pounds
• The towing of a vehicle not surpassing 10,000 pounds GVWR
• The towing of a farm trailer with a GVWR of up to 20,000 pounds

A Class B Commercial Driver License is necessary for commercial use of these vehicles. Refer to the Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook for detailed information, or prepare for your license with a free Texas practice test.

Class A Driver’s License

A Class A Commercial Driver’s License is essential for commercial use of vehicles. This license type allows a single or a combination of vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more to be driven. The only reservation is that the towed vehicle(s) has a GVWR of over 10,000 pounds.

Class M Driver’s License

Get the authority to drive motorcycles and mopeds with this type of license.

How to Apply for Your Texas License

Applying for a Texas driver’s license involves passing a vision, knowledge, and driving test. You must also finish the Impact Texas Drivers Program and undergo a driver education course. But how do you know where to start from? Well, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s the license you can get depending on your age:

• If you’re a first-timer between 15 and 18, apply for a Learner’s License.
• If you’re a learner’s permit holder between 15 and 18, apply for a Provisional License.
• If you’re an 18+ first-timer, apply for an Adult Driver’s License.

How to Apply for the Texas Learner’s License

The Texas licensing process is governed by the principles of the GDL (Graduated Driver License Program). According to this, the first step for every driver below 18 years is applying for a learner’s license. Once you have your learner’s permit, you must keep it for six months or till the age of 18. This license type allows you to drive supervised by a licensed adult who’s 21 years or older.

Here’s what you’ll need to do to get your learner’s license:

Go to the Driver License Office

You must visit the driver’s license office to apply in person. While some offices offer online scheduling, others book your appointment over call.

Assemble Necessary Documentation

Collect and bring documents that verify your:

• U.S. Citizenship or legal status
• Residency in Texas
• Identity
• Social Security Number

Vehicle owners should also have proof of Texas vehicle registration and insurance.

Fill Out the Application Form

Complete the driver's license application before you visit the local office. This form is obtainable at all driver's license offices as well.

Come with Your Guardian or Parent

Your parent or guardian must accompany you to the DPS office. That’s because they will have to sign a document in front of a DPS employee.

Note: Whoever signs the document will have the authority to cancel your license at any time before you turn 18.

Come with a Completed Verification of School Enrollment

You must present a completed VOE form. This form should be acquired from your educational institution and must bear the signature of a school administrator. If you don’t have a VOE, you may provide your high school diploma or an equivalent certification, such as a GED.

Bring the Texas Driver’s Education Certificate

You must present the Texas Driver Education Certificate at the DPS. This original document, designated as form DE-964, confirms that you have completed the necessary classroom hours for driver education. This certificate can be obtained by completing a public or driver training school course. Moreover, you can obtain it via a parent-taught driver education course (PTDE), starting at 14 years of age.

Bring Liability Insurance and Car Registration Proof

You should provide evidence of car liability insurance and vehicle registration in Texas. This only applies if the car is registered in your name, not your parents’ or guardians’.

Remit the Application Fee

Pay the $17 fee required for the application process. The payment can be made via cash, check, credit card, or money order.

Photograph for License

Have your photograph taken for the driver's license.

Undergo a Vision Test

Pass the mandatory vision examination. If your test indicates the need for corrective lenses, you might be mandated to wear them while driving. A medical evaluation by a doctor may be necessary if the test fails to provide a definitive result.

Give and Pass a Written Knowledge Test

You must pass a written knowledge test to obtain a Texas driver's license. This test will be taken the same day you visit the DPS to submit your permit request. There’s no need to take this test if you’ve already done it during your driver’s ED course. Failure on the first attempt will result in your application being held for 90 days. After three failures or 90 days, a fresh application and fee will be needed.

Receive Your Temporary Learner’s License

You can use your temporary license for up to 45 days. If your permanent license hasn't arrived in the mail by then, contact the customer service center.

How to Apply for the Texas Provisional License

According to the GDL, the second step for drivers below 18 years is applying for a provisional license. Once you have your learner’s permit, you must keep it for six months to apply for an intermediate license.

Although this license offers young drivers more autonomy, it still comes with certain restrictions:

• Not allowing more than one non-family passenger under 21 years old in the vehicle
• Refraining from driving between midnight and 5:00 a.m. unless it's for work, school, or a medical emergency
• Prohibiting the use of any wireless communication devices, even hands-free, unless it's an emergency

Here’s what you’ll need to do to get your provisional license:

Keep Your Learner’s Permit

Hold your learner’s permit for at least six months without violations, accidents, or convictions. The same applies to a hardship license if you have one. Moreover, you can’t apply for a provisional license before the age of 16.

Complete Your Driver’s ED Course

You are required to complete the theoretical classroom instruction and the practical driving sessions of your driver education. This can be done at a public school, a dedicated driver training institution, or through a parent-taught driver education program.

Complete the ITTD Course

To complete the Impact Texas Teen Drivers Course, you need to watch a 2-hour video that educates about the risks of distracted driving. This step comes after finishing your driver’s ED course. The ITTD completion certificate is valid for 90 days. If you do not pass your driving skills test within this period, you must retake the ITTD course.

Schedule Your Driver’s Test

To arrange your driving test, book online through any driver's license office. Another option is to set up your test at a certified Commercial Driver Education school, a third-party skills testing (TPST) school. However, you will have to pay extra charges for this.

Assemble Necessary Documentation

Collect and bring documents that verify your:

• Your Texas learner's permit
• Either a Texas Driver Education Certificate or a Parent-Taught Driver Education Affidavit
• A valid Impact Texas Teen Drivers course completion certificate
• A Verification of Enrollment form from your school, or alternatively, your high school diploma or GED
• Proof of current liability insurance in paper format for the vehicle you'll use in the road test

Pay the Test Fee

Pay the $17 fee required for the application process. The payment can be made via cash, check, credit card, or money order. Bring a receipt if you’ve already paid, and remember that the payment is only valid for 90 days.

Take the Driving Test

If you cannot pass the driving test on the initial try, your application remains valid for 90 days. During this period, you can retake the test. However, if you don't pass within 90 days or after three attempts, you must submit a new application and pay the fee again.

When you successfully complete the driving test at a certified TPST school, you'll receive a sealed envelope containing your results. You must bring this sealed envelope to the driver's license office for your exam results to be officially recognized and the road test requirement to be waived.

Receive Your Temporary Provisional License

You can use your temporary license for up to 45 days. Contact the customer service center if your permanent license hasn't arrived in the mail by then.

How to Apply for the Texas Adult (Full) License

The last and final step of the driver’s license process is applying for an adult or full license. This license grants you complete privileges to drive freely while following the laws and regulations.

Here’s what you’ll need to do to get your adult driver’s license in Texas:

Complete Your Driver’s ED Course

A driver’s ED course is a minimum of 6 hours and can be taken online through authorized driving schools. While it is not mandatory for individuals aged 25 or over, it is still strongly advised to ensure safe and informed driving practices.

Complete the ITYD Course

To complete the Impact Texas Young Drivers Course, you need to watch a 1-hour video that educates about the risks of distracted driving. This step comes after finishing your driver’s ED course. The ITTD completion certificate is valid for 90 days. If you do not pass your driving skills test within this period, you must retake the course.

Go to the Driver License Office

You must visit the driver’s license office to apply in person. While some offices offer online scheduling, others book your appointment over call.

Assemble Necessary Documentation

Collect and bring documents that verify your:

• U.S. Citizenship or legal status
• Residency in Texas
• Identity
• Social Security Number

Schedule Your Driver’s Test

Bring additional documents, including:

• Adult Driver Education Certificate (ADE-1317): This certificate is necessary if you're under 25 or wish to have the DPS knowledge test exempted after completing the course.
• ITYD Course Completion Certificate: You must have this certificate upon completing the ITYD course.
• Proof of Financial Responsibility: You must provide proof that you meet Texas's minimum financial responsibility requirements for every vehicle you own or a declaration stating you do not possess any vehicle needing such maintenance.
• Texas Vehicle Registration: As a new Texas resident with a vehicle, you must show proof of your vehicle's registration in Texas.

Fill Out the Application Form

Complete the driver's license application before you visit the local office. The DL14A form is obtainable at all driver's license offices. You can also download it and fill it out beforehand at home.

Pay the Test Fee

Pay the $26 fee required for the application process. The payment can be made via cash, check, credit card, or money order.

Get Your Photograph Taken

Have your photograph taken for the driver's license.

Provide Your Thumbprint

The DPS employee will take your thumbprint.

Undergo a Vision Test

Pass the mandatory vision examination. If your test indicates the need for corrective lenses, you might be mandated to wear them while driving. A medical evaluation by a doctor may be necessary if the test fails to provide a definitive result.

Give and Pass a Written Knowledge Test

You must pass a written knowledge test to obtain a Texas driver's license. This test will be taken the same day you visit the DPS to submit your permit request. There’s no need to take this test if you’ve already done it during your driver’s ED course. Failure on the first attempt will result in your application being held for 90 days. After three failures or 90 days, a fresh application and fee will be needed. Moreover, you’ll need at least 70% to pass the exam.

Take the Driving Test

If you're already registered in the Applus system by a driver's license office staff, you can arrange your driving test online. If not, seek help at a driver's license office. You also have the option to book your driving test with a certified Commercial Driver Education school, known as a TPST school, but this will incur extra charges. Upon passing the driving test at a TPST school, you'll need to provide the sealed envelope given by the school to have the exam requirement waived at the driver's license office.

Receive Your Temporary Adult License

You can use your temporary license for up to 45 days. Contact the customer service center if your permanent license hasn't arrived in the mail by then.

Texas Knowledge Test Overview

Here’s what you can expect from your knowledge exam:

Exam Content

The test comprises multiple-choice questions on road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. Achieving a 70% correct response rate is necessary to pass the Class C knowledge test.

Language Options for the Test

Tests are conducted in English and Spanish. Understanding English road signs is mandatory. Translators can assist with pre- and post-test communication only.

Test Preparation

Study the Texas Driver Handbook thoroughly and utilize free TX practice tests. You're prepared when confident with your practice test scores.

Avoidable Mistakes

Common errors include insufficient manual study and hastiness. Prioritize comprehensive handbook study and deliberate answering.

Handbook Use During the Test

Accessing the handbook while testing is prohibited and constitutes cheating.

Test Difficulty Across DPS Offices

No "easy" DPS office exists; preparation is key. The computerized test generates random questions.

Retaking a Failed Test

If unsuccessful, retake opportunities are available the following day. After three failed attempts, the application process restarts.

Written Test Exemption

Certain driver education course completions may exempt you from taking the knowledge test at a DPS office. Explore available courses for eligibility.

Texas Driving Test: What to Expect

• Purpose: The test evaluates your ability to drive safely and follow traffic laws.

• Duration: Approximately 20 minutes.

• Location: Available at driver's license offices or TPST schools.

• Scheduling: If registered in the Applus system, schedule online. Otherwise, seek help at a driver's license office.

• Language Accommodations: Offered in Spanish at select offices.

Translation Assistance: Non-English speakers can bring a translator to communicate with the CSR before and after the test. During the test, the CSR will guide you using hand signals and non-verbal cues, which can be clarified by the translator beforehand.

How to Renew and Replace Your Texas State Driver’s License

If your license is lost, damaged, or has expired, you’ll have to replace or renew it. You can renew your license at the DPS office in person. However, in some cases, you may be eligible to renew it online or by mail. Although walk-ins are entertained at all driver’s license offices, it’s preferable to schedule your appointment online or by phone.

In Person

Here’s how to renew your license in person:

1. Fill out your application form. You can do so at the license office or get a headstart by downloading it and filling it out at home.
2. Provide verification for your identity by bringing a primary or secondary document. You must also bring your current driver’s license, SSN, and documents verifying your legal presence in the US or US citizenship. If you’ve changed your name, make sure you get Social Security to update your name. The DPS will verify this.
3. Pay a $25 + $1 administrative fee. This applies to those between 18 and 84. Those above 85 must pay $9 + $1.
4. Pass your vision test.
5. Give your thumb impression.
6. Get your photograph taken.
7. Take your new license. It will be valid for six years in general, but for those who are 85 and above, it will only be valid for two years.

Note: If it’s been over two years since your license has expired, you can’t renew it.

By Mail

You can only renew your license by mail if you’ve received an invitation from the DPS. Simply follow the instructions mentioned on the form delivered to you if you wish to renew via mail.

License renewal by mail is possible if your permanent residence is in Texas but you're currently residing elsewhere temporarily. This is mostly the case for active-duty military members or students with parents in Texas.

Online

You can renew your driver's license online or by phone if you meet the following criteria:

• Your internet browser is equipped with 128-bit encryption.
• You are aged 19 to 78.
• Your driver's license is either due to expire within a year or has been expired for less than two years.
• You hold U.S. citizenship.
• Your previous renewal was conducted face-to-face at a driver's license office.
• The DPS has your Social Security number on record.
• Since your last renewal, there have been no changes in your vision, physical health, or mental health that could impact your driving.
• You do not have any unresolved traffic violations or warrants.
• Your driving privileges are not under suspension or revocation.

For the renewal process, you will require:

• Your existing Texas driver's license.
• Your Social Security number.
• A valid credit card to cover the renewal fee of $25.00 plus an administrative fee of $1.00.
• Access to a printer to print the temporary driver's license, valid for 45 days. If printing is not an option, you may renew by calling 1-866-357-3639.

How New Residents Can Get a Texas Driver's License

You must apply for a Texas driver's license within 90 days of becoming a resident.

How to Apply If You Have a Valid Out-of-State Driver’s License

You can apply for a Texas driver’s license easily if you possess an unexpired license from another state. Luckily, you won’t need to take any knowledge or driving skills tests.

Visit a DPS Office

The Texas driver’s license process must be done in person. Therefore, you must visit a DPS office. Making a reservation on the phone or online is preferable.

Bring Your Documentation Along

To get your Texas adult driver’s license, you’ll need to verify the following through your documents:

• Identity
• US citizenship or legal presence in the country
• Social Security Number
• Residential address in Texas
• Vehicle registration and insurance proof in case of vehicle ownership

Note: If you don’t own a vehicle, you must sign a statement verifying this.

Fill Out an Application Form

You can obtain the DL14A application form at any driver's license office. Alternatively, you can download it and fill it out at your convenience before visiting the office. This can streamline the process when you arrive. Remember to bring the completed form with you to the office for submission.

Pay the License Fee

You must pay the $26 fee. The payment can be made by card, cash, check, or money order.

Undergo a Vision Test

Pass the mandatory vision examination. If your test indicates the need for corrective lenses, you might be mandated to wear them while driving. A medical evaluation by a doctor may be necessary if the test fails to provide a definitive result.

Surrender Your Out-of-State License

Your out-of-state license cannot be exchanged for a Texas State License. You will have to surrender it to the DPS officer. Once that’s done, you’ll be issued a temporary license. Its validity is about 45 days. Contact the customer service center if your permanent license hasn't arrived in the mail by then.

I've Got a Valid Foreign License

Drivers from the following countries with a valid license will only have to surrender their other-country license to get one in Texas:

• Canada
• Germany
• Taiwan
• France
• South Korea

These drivers won’t need to take any tests, whether knowledge or driving.

However, drivers that don’t want to surrender their current license will have to pass the knowledge and driving skills exam.

If you’re from any other country, transferring your foreign license to Texas will be like applying for a new license. You'll need to pass a vision exam, written knowledge test, and road test.

Note: Every applicant under 18 must undergo the driving skills test, regardless of whether they have a valid driver's license from another nation. However, those with a valid learner's permit from Canada, Germany, France, South Korea, or Taiwan are exempt from the knowledge test.