Drivers License Checklist Texas
Getting a drivers license in Texas is easier than you think. Whether you're a teen driver, a new resident, or an adult looking to get your first license, we've outlined all the steps you need to get on the road in the Lone Star state.
Applying for a New Texas Drivers License
Making an appointment to apply for a drivers license at the Texas DPS comes with a full range of expectations. All new drivers in Texas are required to complete the following:
- Pass a written exam
- Pass a behind-the-wheel test
- Pass a vision exam
- Provide proof of identity
- Provide proof of U.S. citizenship or residency
- Supply valid vehicle registration
- Show proof of valid and adequate auto insurance
- Submit a completed drivers license application
- Pay the drivers license fee
- Agree to submit a thumb print and have your photograph taken
Drivers over the age of 25 are only expected to meet the requirements above. While an adult drivers ed course is a good idea, it's not a requirement.
Drivers Age 17 and Under
Apart from those listed above, Texas teens have a few additional requirements to fulfill before they apply for a new drivers license.
Teen drivers between the ages of 15-17 are required to complete a state-approved teen drivers education course. You must complete 32 hours of driver education, although that can be done online or in a classroom setting.
Completing a drivers ed course is just one step toward getting your license. Texas teens are also required to obtain a learners permit and practice driving with a licensed adult. To earn your learners permit, you must:
- Sign up for and complete the first 2 chapters of your drivers ed course
- Pass a drivers permit exam at the DPS
Once you've passed your permit exam, you can start your behind-the-wheel training. A teen's parent can apply to act as a drivers ed instructor (for parent-taught drivers ed) and help new drivers fulfill their driving practice requirement. Your behind-the-wheel driving requirement includes:
- 7 hours of driving practice with an approved instructor or parent-instructor
- 7 hours of practice with a licensed adult over the age of 21
- 30 hours of logged driving practice including 10 hours at night
Once you've completed the requirements above and passed your 16th birthday, you can go to the DPS. Be sure to bring the following:
- Your completion certificate from your drivers ed course
- Your drivers training log indicating you've fulfilled the required behind-the-wheel practice
- A "Verification of Enrollment and Attendance" form (CDD-104) from your school, or an official letter from a school administrator indicating you are currently enrolled
Drivers Ages 18-24
If you think you're off the hook once you turn 18, think again. Until age 25, new drivers in Texas are required to take a drivers education course. To get your drivers license if you're between the ages of 18-24, you are required to:
- Complete a 6-hour adult drivers ed course
- Pass the final exam (which fulfills the drivers license written test)
- Present your certificate of completion to the DPS when you go to take your driving test
