You apply for a Texas license in person. Bring your documents, pay first, then take the knowledge, vision and driving exams. Knowing the retest rules and what fails you on the road test can save you a second trip.
You must provide:
- Full name, proof of residential address, mailing address, county of residence, place and date of birth
- Identification documents
- Social security number, verified electronically with the Social Security Administration
- Thumb or index fingerprints and a physical description
- Answers to the medical questions (some cases go to the Medical Advisory Board)
- Any valid out-of-state driver license, surrendered
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence
Know the rule
For an original license you must show evidence of financial responsibility (insurance) for each vehicle you own, or state you own none that requires it. New residents must also show each vehicle is registered in Texas.
Handbook p. 12 ↗Know the rule
In-office applicants at least 17 years 10 months old are offered voter registration. Men 18–25 who are U.S. citizens or immigrants are automatically registered for selective service.
Handbook p. 12 ↗Know the rule
Everyone under 25 must complete an approved driver education course, and every applicant must complete the Impact Texas Drivers (ITD) course for their age group before the driving exam.
Handbook p. 13 ↗Know the rule
Under 18, your application must be signed under oath by a parent or guardian with custody (or an employer or county judge if there is no guardian). The signer may later ask DPS in writing, sworn, to cancel your license before you turn 18.
Handbook p. 13 ↗Exam numbers to know
| Rule | Number |
|---|---|
| Passing score on any knowledge exam | 70 percent or better |
| Application held after failing a first attempt | 90 days |
| New application and fee required after | 90 days or three failed exams |
| Temporary license usable for | 45 days (or until card arrives) |
Three types of knowledge exam
- Class C – for all original applicants
- Class M – waived if you show proof of completing a state-approved motorcycle operator course
- Class A or Class B – rules exam for operators of those vehicles
Know the rule
The knowledge and driving exams are not required for applicants 18 or older who surrender a valid out-of-state license. No one under 18 is exempt from the driving exam, and no driving exam is needed for a learner license.
Handbook p. 13 ↗Know the rule
The driving exam comes only after all other exams are passed and insurance is shown (or the vehicle is exempt). The test vehicle must match the license class. A $10 fee applies to move to a higher class or remove restrictions.
Handbook p. 14 ↗Your application will not be approved if you:
- Violate the law
- Refuse to follow instructions
- Drive dangerously or have a crash
- Have more than 30 points deducted on the driving exam
Four basic skills graded on every driving exam
- Control – making your car do what you want it to do
- Observation – seeing what other traffic is doing and spotting problems
- Positioning – driving in your lane
- Signaling – using turn signals as required
Skills you may be graded on
- Parallel parking: back-up camera allowed, automated parking function not allowed
- Quick stop: stop as quickly as possible at about 20 mph without skidding
- Backing: about 60 feet slowly, straight and smooth, looking back (or using camera and mirrors)
- Clutch: hold it down when starting, shifting, stopping, and once below 10 mph
- Posture: hands on the wheel; don't rest your elbow on the window
Once licensed, carry your license and show it on request to:
- Any peace officer, sheriff, constable, judge, justice of the peace, or state trooper
- Anyone you are involved in a crash with
Put it into practice
You fail the knowledge exam on Monday. Your application is held for 90 days, so you can retest without starting over. If 90 days pass, or you fail three exams, you must file a new application and pay the fee again.