Texas Driving Test Essentials: Everything You Need on Test Day

Quick Answer

To take your Texas driving test this December, bring four essentials: proof of driver education and ITD completion, a signed driving practice log, a safe vehicle that passes inspection, and the required identification and payment.

1. Proof of Driver Education and ITD Completion

Texas law requires all new drivers under 25 to complete:

• A state-approved drivers education course
  The Impact Texas Drivers (ITD) program

Be sure to bring:

• Your drivers education certificate of completion (DE-964 or ADE-1317)

• A valid ITD certificate issued within the last 90 days

Check your dates before you go—expired or missing certificates will delay your licensing process.

2. Documented Driving Practice Hours

To test, you must complete at least:

• 30 hours of behind-the-wheel practice

• 10 of those hours must be at night

Many safety experts recommend 50 hours of driving practice for stronger confidence. Bring your completed driving log (Form DL-91B or equivalent) to verify your hours. Without it, the test cannot proceed.

Before your exam, make sure you know exactly what to expect and how to avoid common pitfalls—check out this guide on how to pass your driving test the first time by avoiding common mistakesTrending How Pass Your Driving Test First Time Avoiding Common Mistakes Driversed.com.

3. A Vehicle That Passes Inspection

You must bring a vehicle in safe working condition. Before the test, a Texas DPS examiner will check for safety compliance. Your car must have:

• Valid registration and current insurance

• Two license plates (unless your state requires only one)

• Working headlights, brake lights, and turn signals

• Functioning seat belts, horn, speedometer, and windshield wipers

• No check engine light

• Doors that open and close properly

If you're unsure, consider a basic mechanic inspection before test day.

Want to know what your examiner is looking for once you're behind the wheel? Here's a breakdown of how the Texas driving test is scoredTrending How Texas Driving Test Scored Driversed.com so you can focus on the moves that matter most.

4. Required ID and Test Fees

Bring all of the following:

• Primary identification (such as a birth certificate or passport)

• Proof of Social Security number (card or equivalent)

• Two documents showing Texas residency (utility bill, lease, etc.)

• Your course completion certificate

• Payment for your driver license

Fees:

• $16 for drivers under 18

• $25 for drivers 18 and older
  
  

Accepted payment methods can vary by location—check ahead with your local DPS office.

Even If You’re Nervous, You’ve Got This

Even if you’re feeling nervous about your test day, you’re not alone. The driving test is designed to confirm you're ready, not to trip you up. You’ve already done the hard part—learning the rules, logging your hours, and showing up prepared. Trust your training, stay calm, and know that thousands of new drivers pass every month… and you can, too.

Be Test-Day Ready

Here are a few steps to keep test day stress-free:

• Arrive 15–20 minutes early

• Bring all paperwork organized in a folder

• Review the DPS test route and expectations if possible

• Drive confidently and follow all instructions calmly

Getting your drivers license is a big moment—and you’ve worked hard to reach it. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to pass and start your driving journey. For more detailed guidance straight from the state, review the Texas Driver Handbook (DL-7)Forms Dl 7.pdf Internetforms.

FAQs About the Texas Driving Test

What documents do I need to take my Texas driving test?

You need your drivers ed certificate, a valid ITD certificate, completed driving log, proof of ID, Social Security number, two residency documents, and payment.

What kind of car can I use for the test?

You must use a registered, insured, road-ready vehicle with working lights, seat belts, a speedometer, and no check engine light.

How much does the Texas driving test cost?

$16 if you're under 18, $25 if you're 18 or older. Check your local DPS office for accepted payment types.

Can I use my ITD certificate from six months ago?

No. The ITD certificate must be dated within the last 90 days to be valid on test day.