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How to Get Your Texas Permit License

The actual step-by-step process, from application to full license — not just what's on the exam. Confirm anything time-sensitive (fees, forms) with Texas DPS directly.

Under 18

  1. Complete driver education

    Classroom instruction (6 hours concurrent or 24 hours block-scheduled), plus 7 hours of in-car observation and 30 hours of behind-the-wheel practice, at least 10 of which must be at night with a licensed driver 21 or older in the vehicle.

    • Driver education completion certificate

  2. Apply for your learner license

    You must be at least 16. Provide proof of identity, your Social Security number, proof of Texas residency, and your driver education certificate.

    • Proof of identity
    • Social Security number
    • Proof of Texas residency
    • Driver education completion certificate

  3. Pass the vision exam and written knowledge test

    Done at a Texas DPS office: vision screening and the 30-question written knowledge test. You need at least 70% correct to pass.

  4. Hold the learner license at least 6 months

    Applicants under 18 must hold a learner license (or minor restricted driver license) for at least six months before becoming eligible for a provisional license.

  5. Complete the Impact Texas Teen Driver (ITTD) program

    A brief, DPS-required program on the risks of distracted and impaired driving, completed before the provisional license is issued.

  6. Pass the road test and receive your provisional license

    Once the holding period and ITTD program are complete, pass the road test to receive your provisional license.

  7. Follow provisional license restrictions

    Until your 18th birthday: no more than one passenger under 21 who isn't immediate family, and no driving between midnight and 5 a.m. except for work, a school-related activity, or a medical emergency.

  8. Move to a full license

    The provisional license automatically expires and converts to a full, unrestricted license on your 18th birthday.

18 to 24

  1. Complete the required adult driver education course

    A 6-hour adult driver education course is required for first-time applicants ages 18-24, before applying for a license.

  2. Apply for your license

    Provide proof of identity, your Social Security number, and proof of Texas residency at a DPS office.

    • Proof of identity
    • Social Security number
    • Proof of Texas residency
    • Adult driver education completion certificate

  3. Pass the vision exam and written knowledge test

    The 30-question written knowledge test requires at least 70% correct to pass, plus a vision screening.

  4. Pass the road test

    A DPS examiner evaluates standard driving maneuvers.

  5. Receive your full license

    There are no provisional restrictions at this age — you receive a full, unrestricted Texas license upon passing.

25 and Older

  1. Apply for your license

    No driver education course is required at this age. Provide proof of identity, your Social Security number, and proof of Texas residency at a DPS office.

    • Proof of identity
    • Social Security number
    • Proof of Texas residency

  2. Pass the vision exam and written knowledge test

    The 30-question written knowledge test requires at least 70% correct to pass, plus a vision screening.

  3. Pass the road test

    A DPS examiner evaluates standard driving maneuvers.

  4. Receive your full license

    You receive a full, unrestricted Texas license immediately upon passing.

Notes

  • If you're moving to Texas from another state or Canada with a valid, unexpired license, both the written and driving tests may be waived — but you must surrender your out-of-state license within 90 days.
  • Exact application fees change over time — confirm the current amount on the Texas DPS website before your appointment.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-08