How to get a Texas Driver's License
Find out how to get a new TX driver's license, replace your out-of-state license and requirements for international drivers with this Texas DMV guide.
The Rules
Under TX DMV guidelines, you must be at least 16 years of age to apply for a Texas Drivers License.
All applicants need to be familiar with the Texas Driver's Manual. Think you know the material? Take our DMV practice test now and test your driving knowledge.
First Time Drivers
If this is your first driver's license, you will need to apply for a Texas learners permit which requires a vision test and a written exam on traffic signs, motor vehicle laws and safe driving techniques.
Once you receive a valid learners permit, you will then need to pass a road skills test to receive a TX drivers license.
Applicants under 18 must have held a learners permit for 6 months and provide proof that you have successfully completed an approved driver education course before taking the road skills test.
New TX Residents
New residents over 18 moving into Texas, who have a valid driver license from their home state, have 30 days after entry into the state to secure a Texas driver license. When heading to the DMV, be sure to bring the license from your former state as you will be required to surrender it in order to obtain the new license.
The written exam and road skills test are not required to change a valid out-of-state license to a TX driver's license, however you will need to pass a vision test.
If your out-of-state driver's license is expired, you will be required to pass both the written and driving exams, in addition to a vision test.
International Drivers
Generally, a person 18 to 75 years of age with a valid out-of-country driver license in their possession may drive a private, non-commercial motor vehicle in the State of Texas for up to one year from date of entry into the United States, if their home country has reciprocity with the U.S. In order to check for reciprocity agreement status, click on Reciprocity In Driver Licensing or you may contact License Issuance at (512) 424-5089 or by e-mail at license.issuance@txdps.state.tx.us. 37 Texas Administrative Code 15.91.
If you are a holder of a valid foreign driver license and wish to convert to a Texas driver license, you must take and pass all required tests (vision, driver knowledge, driving and maneuverability).
Paperwork
Before you head to the Texas DMV Office, make sure you have all of the following required documents to get your driver's license:
On the Road
Once your licensing requirements have been met, your Class C driver's license will be valid for 6 years. Remember... the safe operation of a vehicle requires practiced skill, knowledge, and a respectful understanding of the limitations imposed by the other drivers and the environment.
