Your Complete Guide to Getting a Texas Driver's License in College
TL;DR
If you're between 18 and 24 and going to college in Texas, you'll need to complete a 6-hour adult driver education course and the free ITAD program. Then bring the right documents to the DPS, pass your tests, and get your license. This guide breaks it all down to save you time and headaches.
Welcome to the Road to Independence
Balancing school, part-time jobs, and everything else life throws at you is enough already. If you’re trying to get your Texas driver’s license while in college, the process might seem confusing—but it doesn’t have to be.
With the right info (and no wasted time), you can knock out your requirements, pass your tests, and get your license—without adding more stress to your schedule. This guide walks you through exactly what to do so you can get it done efficiently and get back to what matters.
Even If You're Feeling Lost...
Even if you've never been to the DPS alone
Even if you're not sure what documents count as proof of residency
Even if you've let your out-of-state license expire
You're not alone—and you're not behind. This guide walks you through exactly what to do so you can skip the confusion and get on the road faster.
Do You Need a Texas License as a College Student?
It depends on where you're from, where you're living, and how long you're staying. Here's how it breaks down:
Option 1: Keep Your Out-of-State License
If you're a student and still a resident of another state, you can usually keep using your valid, unexpired license. But be careful—if you take a job, register to vote, or live in Texas for over 90 days, you may be considered a resident and required to transfer.
Option 2: Transfer Your Out-of-State License
If you're ready to make Texas home, transferring your out-of-state driver's license is straightforward. Just bring your documents, pass a vision test, and you're set—no written or driving tests required (as long as your license hasn't been expired more than 2 years).
Option 3: Get Your First Texas License
If you've never had a license—or your old one doesn't qualify for a transfer—this is your path. It's a few more steps, but totally doable. You'll need to:
Complete a 6-hour adult driver education course
Complete the ITAD program
Pass written and driving tests at the DPS
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Texas License (Ages 18–24)
Phase 1: Complete Required Courses (Online)
6-Hour Adult Driver Education Course: Texas allows online drivers education for adults, so you can complete this at your own pace. The course covers laws, signs, and safe driving practices.
Impact Texas Adult Drivers (ITAD): This free, 1-hour video program focuses on the dangers of distracted driving. The ITAD course became mandatory for drivers ages 18-24 in 2017 and must be completed within 90 days of your test.
Phase 2: Gather Your Docs & Book Your DPS Visit
Required Documents:
Certificate of driver ed completion
ITAD certificate (not older than 90 days)
Proof of identity (e.g., passport or birth certificate)
Social Security card or proof of SSN
Two proofs of Texas residency (see next section)
Vehicle insurance and registration (if testing in your car)
Fill Out Form DL-14A: Download it ahead of time from the Texas DPS driver license application page.
Book Your Appointment: Making an appointment at Texas DPS requires advance planning since spots fill up fast.
Phase 3: At the DPS
Pass a vision test
Pass the written knowledge test (or show proof of passing during your course)
Pass the driving test in your own insured, registered vehicle
Pay the fee and get a temporary paper license (your plastic one arrives by mail in 2–3 weeks)
Proof of Residency: What Counts (Especially in a Dorm)
Living in a dorm? You can use:
An official letter from your university confirming your on-campus address
FAFSA financial aid letters
Any mail from a government agency addressed to your dorm room
Avoid:
P.O. boxes
Mail addressed to "current resident"
The Texas DPS residency requirements specify exactly which documents qualify for college students.
What Documents You'll Need (Originals Only)
Before heading to the DPS, ensure you have everything from this comprehensive document checklist:
U.S. passport or birth certificate
Social Security card or pay stub with SSN
Two residency documents (see above)
Certificates from driver ed and ITAD
Proof of insurance and registration (if using your own vehicle for the test)
Special Considerations
International Students:
Bring your passport, visa, I-94, and I-20/DS-2019
Your license will be "limited term" based on your visa expiration
Military-Connected Students:
You may qualify for exemptions; bring your military ID or dependent documentation
If You're Under 25 but Over 18: You still need the adult driver education course, but you have more flexibility than teen drivers. Understanding whether to wait until 18 for your license can help if you're currently 17 and considering your options.
Timeline and Costs
Course fees vary by provider (usually $30–$60)
License fee: $33 for ages 18–84, valid 8 years
Processing time: 2–3 weeks for your permanent card
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Letting your ITAD certificate expire (it's valid 90 days)
Forgetting vehicle paperwork (insurance and registration required for driving test)
Booking appointments too late (they fill fast—book early!)
Showing up with copies instead of original documents
Maintaining Your License While in School
Update your address within 30 days if you move
Renew early if you'll be away when it expires
If you're studying out-of-state temporarily, renewing your Texas license while out-of-state is possible under certain conditions
FAQ: Texas College Students & Driver's Licenses
Can I get a Texas license if I still consider another state my home? Yes—but if you meet residency requirements (job, lease, voter registration), you'll need to transfer your license within 90 days.
Do I have to take a driving test if I already have a license? Not if your license is from another U.S. state and it's not expired more than 2 years. Otherwise, yes.
What if I live on campus and don't have utility bills? Use an official letter from your school confirming your dorm assignment. FAFSA documents can work too.
Can I walk into the DPS without an appointment? Walk-ins are rarely accepted. Book online as early as possible.
How long does it take to get my license in the mail? Typically 2 to 3 weeks. You'll get a temporary paper version on the day you pass.
Final Word: Get It Done, Get on the Road
Getting your Texas license as a college student doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right steps—and a little prep—you can handle it efficiently and without unnecessary stress.
Start your required adult driver education course online, finish the ITAD, gather your documents, and schedule your DPS visit. You’ve got this—and I Drive Safely is here to make sure it’s smooth from start to finish.
Updated 08/27/2025
