How To Get Your Learner's Permit In Texas (Step-by-Step)

Getting your Texas learner’s permit (officially called a learner license) is the first major step on the road to a full driver’s license. It lets you legally practice driving with a licensed adult and builds the skills needed before taking your road test. 

Get Your Texas Driving Permit in 6 Steps.

1. Meet the Age & Eligibility Requirements

In Texas, most teens can start the permit process at age 15.

• Minimum age: 15 years old for a learner’s permit

• Driver education: Must be enrolled in or have completed a state-approved driver education program before you apply

• Parental consent: Teens under 18 need a parent or legal guardian with them to sign paperwork in person

For adults (18+), the rules vary slightly, and some driver education courses can replace the written test.

2. Complete Your Driver Education Course

Before you can apply for your Texas learner’s permit, you must begin a driver education course approved by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).

• Teens typically take a 32-hour course (classroom + behind-the-wheel training)

• You may be eligible to take your written permit test after completing the first 6 hours of the course

• Adult drivers also have a separate 6-hour driver education requirement if they want a learner’s permit to practice driving before a license

Driver education courses help you learn traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices so you’re prepared to pass your written test.

3. Gather Required Documents

When you’re ready to apply for your permit, bring these items to your local Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office:

• Proof of identity (e.g., original birth certificate or U.S. passport)

• Social Security number/card

• Verification of Enrollment and Attendance (VOE) if you’re under 18

• Driver education certificate or proof of course enrollment

• Proof of Texas residency (two documents with your name and address)

• Completed driver license application (Form DL-14A)

• Parent/guardian signature (for minors)

Make sure all documents are originals or certified copies as the DPS will review them closely.

4. Take the Required Tests

At your DPS appointment you will be required to pass:

Vision Test

You must meet Texas vision standards to be eligible for a learner’s permit.

Written Permit Test

The knowledge exam typically covers:

• Texas traffic laws

• Road signs

• Safe driving practices

Most teens take this test at the DPS office, though some driver education courses include the written exam as part of the program.

5. Pay Fees & Get Your Permit

Once you’ve passed your tests and provided all required documents:

• Pay the learner’s permit fee at the DPS office

• Have your photo taken

• Provide your thumbprints

• You’ll receive your Texas learner’s permit the same day if everything is in order.

6. Follow Learner’s Permit Rules in Texas

After you receive your permit, Texas law requires supervised driving under specific restrictions:

• You must drive with a licensed adult (21+) in the front passenger seat

• No driving solo until your full license

• Teens may face nighttime or passenger limitations until they upgrade their license

• The permit is valid for several years or until you turn 18

These rules are part of Texas’s Graduated Driver License (GDL) program designed to keep new drivers safe as they build experience.