Texas DPS · Learner's Permit 2026

How to Get Your Texas Learner's Permit

A step-by-step guide to getting your Texas Learner License and moving through the GDL program to a full Class C license.

📋 Texas GDL Program Overview

Texas uses a two-phase Graduated Driver License (GDL) program for applicants under 18. Phase One involves the Learner License; Phase Two involves the Provisional License. The program eases teens into driving by phasing in privileges and minimizing exposure to high-risk situations (Chapter 1, Texas Driver Handbook DL-7).

Phase 1 — Learner License

Minimum age: 15 (with driver education). Hold for at least 6 months before Phase 2. Expires on 18th birthday. Fee: $16.

Phase 2 — Provisional License

Age 16–18. Driving privileges with restrictions until 18th birthday. Marked "PROVISIONAL" on the card. Fee: $16.

Full Class C License

At age 18. All GDL restrictions lifted. Valid for 8 years. Fee: $33 (ages 18–84).

🪪 Phase 1 — Getting Your Learner License

Complete the Driver Education Classroom Phase

Applicants under 25 must complete an approved driver education course. The classroom portion (Part 1) must be completed before applying for a Learner License. Upon successful completion of some courses, the DPS knowledge exam at the office may be waived. For more info, visit dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/ApplyforLicense.htm.

Schedule an Appointment

All Texas DPS driver license services require a scheduled appointment. Book online at dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/appointments.htm. Appointments can be made up to 6 months in advance.

Gather Your Documents

You must bring:

Full legal name and proof of date of birth (e.g., birth certificate)
Proof of residential address in Texas
Social Security number
U.S. citizenship or lawful presence documentation
Verification of Enrollment and Attendance (VOE) form — signed by your school, dated no more than 30 days before applying during school year (90 days in summer)
Parent or guardian must sign the application under oath (under-18 applicants)

Pass the Vision Exam & Knowledge Test

A vision exam is given at the office. If required, pass the Class C knowledge test with at least 70% (21/30). The knowledge exam may be waived if you completed an approved driver ed course. Your picture will be taken and you'll be given a payment receipt.

Pay the Fee

The Learner License fee is $16 (includes $1 administrative fee). Fees must be paid before any exams are given. The license expires on your 18th birthday.

📜 Phase 1 Driving Rules (Learner License)

While Holding a Texas Learner License

A licensed driver at least 21 years of age with at least 1 year of driving experience must be in the seat beside you at all times
The supervising driver must not be intoxicated, asleep, or otherwise unable to observe and respond to your actions
The Learner License will say "Learner License" on the front of the card
No wireless communication device of any kind — including hands-free — except in emergencies
You must hold the Learner License for at least 6 months before applying for Phase Two (Provisional License)

🚗 Phase 2 — Getting Your Provisional License

Meet Phase 1 Requirements

You must be at least 16 years old and have held a valid Learner License (or combination of Learner/Hardship) for at least 6 months. If your license was suspended during Phase 1, the 6-month period extends by the days of suspension.

Complete the Behind-the-Wheel Phase

Both the classroom AND behind-the-wheel phases of driver education must be completed and passed before applying for a Provisional License. All applicants under 18 must also complete the Impact Texas Drivers (ITD) course at impacttexasdrivers.dps.texas.gov before the driving exam.

Pass the Driving Exam at DPS

A driving exam is required. You must provide a suitable vehicle matching the class on your application. The DPS examiner (LPS) will evaluate: control, observation, positioning, and signaling. You may use a backup camera for parallel parking but not an automated parking function.

📋 Phase 2 Restrictions (Provisional License)

While Holding a Texas Provisional License (Phase 2)

No more than 1 passenger under the age of 21 who is not a family member
No driving between midnight and 5:00 AM unless driving is necessary for work, a school-related activity, or a medical emergency
No wireless communication devices — including hands-free — for any driver under 18, except in emergencies
License is marked "PROVISIONAL" and expires on 18th birthday
All other standard traffic laws apply — these are additional restrictions on top of normal rules

🗓️ After Age 18 — Full Class C License

Class C Driver License — Full Privileges

All GDL restrictions are lifted at age 18
Standard Class C license fee: $33 (ages 18–84), valid for 8 years
Applicants ages 18–24 are still required to successfully complete an approved driver education course
Must appear in person at a DPS office at least once every 16 years for vision exam and photo/signature/fingerprint update
Notify DPS of any address change within 30 days

Prepare for Your Knowledge Test

530+ questions based on the official Texas Driver Handbook (DL-7). Free, no signup required.

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