How to Get Your Driver's License in Texas

Earning the right to sit behind the wheel and command a vehicle in Texas is no small feat. For many, it’s an exhilarating step, often tinged with apprehension — thanks to the hoops and hurdles one must leap and dodge along the way.

Whether you're a bright-eyed teen starting with a learner’s permit or an adult nervously stepping into these uncharted waters, understanding the process is your roadmap to success. Here’s a stroll through what it takes to snag that coveted Texas driver’s license, complete with all the requirements.

Who Can Apply? The Fine Print on Eligibility

Before you can even dream of gripping that steering wheel, Texas laws demand you meet some starting conditions. Think of these as your key to unlocking the rest of the process:

Age Milestones

  • Learner’s permit: For the eager teens itching to hit the road — don’t forget, you must be at least 15 to apply. You know, just old enough to look over the dashboard.
  • Provisional license: For the more experienced learner, ages 16 to 17, who’ve held onto their permit for six months or longer.
  • Unrestricted driver’s license: Once you cross the threshold of 18, you’re eligible for the full deal — just make sure you’ve held your provisional license for at least one year.

Residency Requirements

If you’re ready to drive in Texas, you’ll need proof that it’s your home state. Bring evidence of a permanent address (yes, even if it’s your parents’ place).

Identification and Proof of Citizenship/Authorized Presence

Be prepared to provide documents that verify your identity, history and legal status in the U.S. Think of it as creating a paper trail of who you are to get behind the wheel.

Required Documents to Bring

When you go to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office to complete your driver’s license application, bring the following:

Proof of Identity

  • A valid, unexpired U.S. passport or passport card
  • U.S. birth certificate (certified copy)
  • Texas Identification Card (if applying for a license upgrade)

Proof of Residency

  • Utility bill, lease agreement or mortgage statement
  • School transcript or report card
  • Bank statement or insurance policy

Proof of Social Security Number

Proof of Citizenship or Lawful Presence

Driver’s Education Completion Certificate

Impact Texas Drivers (ITD) Certificate

  • Required for anyone under 25, certifying completion of the ITD course

Driver Education Requirements

In Texas, completing a driver education course is a crucial step for all new drivers under the age of 25. These courses are designed to teach you the rules of the road, safe driving practices and essential skills needed to pass your driving tests, regardless of your age and experience.

For Teens (Ages 15 to 17)

Teens applying for a learner’s permit or provisional license must complete a state-approved driver’s education program. This includes:

  • 32 hours of classroom instruction: This should cover road signs, traffic laws and safe driving techniques.
  • 44 hours of behind-the-wheel practice: Seven hours of driving with an instructor and 30 hours of supervised practice with a licensed adult (at least 10 hours at night).

Upon completing the course, teens will receive a Driver’s Education Completion Certificate (DE-964), which must be presented when applying for a learner’s permit or taking the driving skills test.

For Adults (Ages 18 to 24)

Adults aged 18 to 24 must complete a shorter, 6-hour driver’s education course. This course covers essential driving laws and safety practices and is required before applying for a license. Once completed, adults will also receive a DE-964.

Impact Texas Drivers (ITD) Program

In addition to completing driver’s education, all applicants under 25 are required to complete the Impact Texas Drivers (ITD) program. This online course educates drivers about the risks of distracted driving through a series of videos and must be completed before taking the road test.

  • Teens (ages 15-17): will take the Impact Texas Teen Drivers (ITTD) course, a two-hour video program.
  • Adults (ages 18-24): will take the Impact Texas Adult Drivers (ITAD) course, which is a one-hour program.

After completing the ITD course, applicants will receive an ITD Certificate, which must be presented at the Texas DPS office when taking the driving test. Note that the certificate is only valid for 90 days, so be sure to complete this course close to your scheduled road test.

Driving Examinations

To receive a Texas driver’s license, you must pass three essential tests: the written knowledge test, vision test and road test. Each evaluates a different aspect of your driving readiness.

Written Knowledge Test

This test covers Texas traffic laws, road signs and safe driving practices based on the Texas Driver Handbook. All first-time drivers must pass this test, which can be taken at the DPS or as part of your driver education course.

Vision Test

The vision test ensures you meet the necessary visual standards for driving. Administered at the DPS, it checks your visual acuity, and corrective lenses may be required if you don’t pass.

Road Test

The road test evaluates your ability to drive safely in real traffic conditions. You’ll demonstrate basic driving skills such as turning, parking and merging. Make sure to bring an insured, registered vehicle and your ITD certificate if you're under 25.

Passing these three tests will certify that you’re ready to drive safely and responsibly on Texas roads.