Texas Driver’s License: Start Driving in TX with this Guide

Texas Drivers License
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The process began early, age 15 with the graduated licensing program, now’s the big day! Head on down to a Texas DMV with the right documents and provisional license. Complete the required testing you’ll soon have your full driver’s license!

Follow along to learn what you’ll need and what to do for your Texas driver’s license.

How to Get a Texas Driver’s License

Those having held a provisional TX license for 6-months, or 18 and over, can apply for a driver’s license.

Here is what you’ll do:

  1. Schedule and visit a local Texas DMV office
  2. Submit an Application for Texas Driver License or ID Card (DL-14A)
  3. Provide personal identification*
  4. Provide proof of residency*
  5. Show proof of insurance
  6. Submit a certificate of a driver education program
  7. Pass the written test (except if you’ve taken a driver education program)
  8. Pass the driving test
  9. Pay the $25 application fee ($9 for 85yo+, waved for disabled veterans)

Texas requires first-time licensing applicants between 18 – 24 to take both:

  • Driver education course
  • Impact Texas Young Drivers program

Consider practicing the knowledge test beforehand using practice tests.

Or, refer to the Texas driver handbook for a complete overview.

Proof of Identification includes items like:

  • Passport
  • Birth Certificate
  • Social Security Card
  • W-2 or 1099

Proof of residency includes items like:

  • Mortgage statement
  • Utility bill
  • Current deed
  • Medical/health card

The DMV driving test verifies adult drivers can:

  • Check for safety
  • Control the vehicle
  • Obey traffic signs
  • Signal properly

Practice makes perfect so be sure to do a combination of day & night driving!

Submitting the paperwork, identification, and passing the tests will award Texas residents with a license receipt letting you drive that day. You’ll receive a license by mail soon after.

Other Registrations

Motorcycles? Boats? Salvaged vehicles? See our other TX vehicle registrations guide.

Find a Local DMV Location in Texas

Need help finding the nearest TX DMV location? Use our Texas DMV directory. Or, use our on-site search if you know the name of the location.