Texas Driver's Permit Requirements
Everything you need to get your Texas learner's permit — age, fees, required documents, supervised-hours rules, and what happens after — summarized from the official DPS pages and linked to the source.
Last verified 2026-07-13 · Source: Texas DPS — Texas Learner License as a Teen ↗
Fees and rules change — always confirm current requirements on the official page above before you go.
How to get your permit in Texas
- Start a TDLR-approved driver education course (6-hour concurrent or 24-hour block classroom phase)
- Pass the knowledge exam (often given through the driver ed course)
- Apply for the learner license at a driver license office with documents and the $16 fee
- Hold the learner license at least 6 months while completing 30 hours of supervised practice (10 at night) and the behind-the-wheel course hours
- Complete the Impact Texas Teen Drivers (ITTD) program within 90 days before the driving test
- Pass the driving test to get the provisional license
Texas GDL restrictions for new drivers
- Passenger rule: No more than one passenger under 21 who is not a family member
- Curfew: No driving between midnight and 5:00 a.m. except for work, school activities, or emergencies
- Cell phone: All cell phone use prohibited, including hands-free, unless it's an emergency
Documents you'll need
- Completed application (DL-14B)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence
- Proof of Texas residency
- Proof of identity
- Social Security number
- Texas Driver Education Certificate
- Verification of Enrollment (VOE) or diploma/GED
The details
- Permit eligibility: Learner license, ages 15–17; requires classroom driver ed started (6h concurrent or 24h block) and school enrollment/VOE
- License fee: $16 — Under-18 license $16 (expires on 18th birthday); $33 at 18+ (8-year)
- Permit validity: Learner license expires on 18th birthday
- Knowledge test: 30 questions; 70% to pass; 30-question knowledge test, 70% (21 correct) to pass.
Frequently asked questions
How old do you have to be to get a permit in Texas?
You can get a learner's permit in Texas at 15. Learner license, ages 15–17; requires classroom driver ed started (6h concurrent or 24h block) and school enrollment/VOE.
How much does a Texas permit cost?
The Texas permit fee is $16.
How long do you have to hold your permit in Texas?
You must hold your Texas permit for at least 6 months before the driving test.
How many practice driving hours does Texas require?
Texas requires 30 hours of supervised practice driving, including 10 at night.
Where can I practice for the Texas permit test?
Right here — take a free Texas practice test in your browser, or get the free DMV Prep app for the full DPS-format experience with a readiness score.
