Applying for a New License (Drivers 18+) in Texas

1) Choose Your License

• Class A (applies to any non-commercial combination vehicle weighing more than 26,000 pounds; generally covers motor homes towing cars)

• Class B (applies to any non-commercial vehicle weighing more than 26,000 pounds; generally covers motor homes)

• Class C (applies to most cars)

• Class M (motorcycle or moped)

• Commercial (CDL) A, B and C

NOTE: If you are younger than 18, you must complete the state's graduated driver license program (which includes obtaining a permit and enrolling in a driver education course) before you can apply for a license.

2) Take a Driver's Education Course

Younger than 18―driver education is mandatory.

Ages 18 through 24― Must provide proof of adult driver education.

18 and Older―though not required, enrolling in a driver education course, such as the one offered by our sponsor, is strongly encouraged. A supplemental driver education course will provide you with invaluable behind-the-wheel experience.

3) Take a Driver Preparation Course

4) Locate a DMV Office

Written exams are given on a walk-in basis at any driver license office.

5) Make Test-Day Preparations

First-time License (Texas Resident Over 18)

• Provide proof of identity.

• Provide proof of Social Security number.

• Provide proof of Texas vehicle registration and liability insurance, if you own a vehicle.

• Provide two proofs of Texas residency. One of the documents must prove that you've lived in Texas for a minimum of 30 days.

• Complete required application forms available at any Texas driver license office.

• Pay the required fee.

• Pass the written, driving, and vision examinations. The applicant must provide the vehicle for the driving test.

• Your application must include a photograph and thumbprint.

If you're under 18, you'll go by a different set of procedures to become a teen driver.

NOTE: All license fees are waived for disabled veterans. To qualify you must meet the following criteria:

• You've been honorably discharged.

• You have a service-related disability of at least 60%.

• You receive compensation from the government because of your disability.

• You're not held to the state's sex offender registration requirements.

You must provide proof of your disability (signed letter from the Veterans Administration) to the DMV.

6) Take the Written Test

After studying the Texas Drivers Handbook and organizing all of the requirements detailed above, you're ready to take the written and vision tests.

Oral tests are available by request.

7) Get a Car

Eventually you'll need a car to take the road test. Having a car will allow you to practice on your own, outside of a driver training program, instilling you with invaluable behind-the-wheel confidence when it comes to test time.

Give thought to a used car that fits your budget and meets your transportation needs. Before settling on a car, you should obtain a vehicle history report. This could protect you from any potentially expensive hidden flaws.

8) Get Car insurance

Car insurance, regardless if you only own a permit, is mandatory. You can compare rates at our Insurance Center.

9) Take the Driving Test

If you're a new resident with a valid out-of-state license you DO NOT have to take the road test. You do, however, if your license is expired.

You must set an appointment with your local driver license office. When you arrive be sure to have:

• Proof of insurance

• Proof of driver education, if applicable

• Your driver's permit, if applicable

• Your Social Security number

• A registered vehicle in good working condition

If You Fail

Your examiner will tell you what skills to work on and when you can return for a another attempt.

Once You Pass

You'll need to pay any required fees (if you did not settle during the application process) and have your photo taken. You'll then will be handed a receipt, which will serve as your temporary license.

10) Receive Your License in the Mail

You should receive your permanent license within three weeks. If it does not arrive after 60 days, contact your local driver license office.

New Residents From Another State

You have 90 days to obtain a Texas driver's license after establishing residency. Visit any driver license office and:

• Have your out-of-state driver's license. Provided it's valid, the written and driving tests will be waived. You will, however, need to pass a vision test.

• Provide proof of identity.

• Provide proof of Social Security number.

• Provide proof of Texas vehicle registration and liability insurance, if you own a vehicle.

• Complete required application forms available at any Texas driver license office.

• Pay the required fee.

NOTE: If you're younger than 18, you will be required to pass the state's driving test.

Non-Citizens

If you're visiting Texas, between the ages of 18-75, and are a currently licensed driver from a country that has a reciprocity agreement with the United States, you may drive for up to one year in the state. Contact the Department of Public Safety (DPS) at (512) 424-2600 for more information.

Be sure to always have your license with you whenever you're driving.

Obtaining an International Driver Permit is a smart move. The permit, issued by your home country, basically translates your license to make it understandable to U.S. officials. Also, many rental car agencies require it in addition to your regular driver's license.

Should you become a resident of the Lone Star State, you'll need to apply for a Texas license within 90 days of your residency to maintain your driving privileges. The DPS provides a list of the documentation you'll need to take to the driver's license office. Also make note that the types of documentation needed depends on your current status and type of visa―call the DPS to be sure.

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