Failed the Texas DPS Written Exam? Here’s What to Do Next
Missing the passing score on the Texas DPS written exam isn’t the end of your driving journey. It just means you get one more chance to get better prepared. This computer-based assessment consists of two 30-minute sections with multiple-choice questions covering road signs, state-specific driving laws, and safe-driving practices. To pass, you need to correctly answer at least 70% of the 40 questions – that’s 28 correct answers to earn your permit. Many first-time drivers stumble because of nerves, rushing through questions, or misunderstanding right-of-way rules. This happens to more applicants than you might think.
If you’re preparing for a retake, you’re in good company. Plenty of Texas drivers needed a second attempt before they earned their permit. With the right approach, your next try can look very different and far more successful.
What to Know About Retaking the DPS Written Exam
- Mandatory waiting period: Texas DPS typically requires a one-day waiting period before you can retake the written exam. This brief waiting period gives you time to review and address areas where you struggled.
- Number of allowed attempts: You’re permitted three attempts to pass the written exam before additional requirements kick in. After three unsuccessful attempts, you’ll need to repurchase the exam package.
- Retake fees: Each retake attempt typically costs around $7-11, depending on your age and the type of license you’re pursuing. These fees are payable at the DPS office or through approved online courses.
- Using the waiting period productively:
o Take online practice tests to identify weak areas
o Review the Texas Driver Handbook sections where you struggled
o Consider enrolling in a driver’s education course that includes the written exam
o Use flashcards to memorize road signs and rules that confused you
Remember that many successful drivers didn’t pass on their first attempt. The waiting period is an opportunity to strengthen your knowledge and approach the test with renewed confidence.
Breaking Down the Texas DPS Written Exam: Format and Requirements
Understanding how the Texas DPS written exam is structured makes preparation much easier, particularly if you’re getting ready for a retake. The test measures your knowledge of state traffic laws and safe-driving practices through a multiple-choice format, as outlined in the Common DPS test questions guide.
Exam Structure
The Texas DPS written test typically contains 40 multiple-choice questions, divided into two main sections: the Highway Signs Examination and the Traffic Laws Examination. You’ll have approximately 30 minutes per section to demonstrate your knowledge. The questions are designed to test your understanding of various driving scenarios you might encounter on Texas roads.
What the Texas DPS Written Exam Covers
Before round two, after a failed DPS written test in Texas, make sure the exam structure is clear. The DPS written exam is designed to measure how well you understand Texas road rules, defensive-driving practices, hazard awareness, and common real-world driving situations.
Question categories include
- Road signs and signals: understanding various traffic signs, signals and road markings
- Traffic laws: speed limits, right-of-way rules, passing laws, safe following distances and turning regulations
- Driving safety and hazard awareness: defensive driving techniques, proper following distances, and handling adverse conditions
- Special roadway rules: school zones, emergency vehicles, and highway laws
You’ll see scenario-based questions, meaning the exam isn’t about memorization alone. It tests your ability to apply the rules in real situations.
A detailed breakdown of the exam format and examples is available from Driving Quest. Pair that with the Adult Drivers Ed breakdown to fully understand what DPS expects from new drivers.
Common Areas Where Test-Takers Struggle
Certain sections consistently trip up first-time test-takers in Texas. Knowing them gives you an advantage.
- Right-of-way scenarios: Particularly at four-way stops and uncontrolled intersections
- Specific traffic signs: Especially those that are less commonly encountered
- Parking regulations: Including proper techniques and restrictions
- Texas-specific laws: Such as regulations about passing school buses and move-over laws
A good way to assess knowledge gaps is through online practice quizzes. The more patterns you recognize, the easier exam questions become.
Effective Study Strategies and Next Steps for Success
Now that you understand what went wrong, let’s focus on how to succeed on your next attempt. With targeted preparation and the right resources, you can approach your retake with confidence and significantly improve your chances of passing.
Essential Study Resources
- Texas Driver Handbook: This official guide is the foundation of all test questions and should be your primary study tool.
- Online Practice Tests: Take multiple practice exams to familiarize yourself with the question format. Studies show that students who practice consistently have significantly higher pass rates.
- Driver Education Courses: Consider enrolling in DrivingQuest’s adult driver’s education course, which includes the DPS written exam and allows you to study at your own pace.
Target Your Weak Areas
Use your previous test results to identify knowledge gaps. Most practice tests provide feedback on missed questions, helping you pinpoint exactly where to focus. Create a study plan that allocates more time to challenging topics while still reviewing the basics.
Break your study into short sessions
Plan for short, repeated sessions rather than cramming:
| Day | Study Focus |
| Day 1 | Review traffic laws + take one practice test |
| Day 2 | Study road signs + retake practice test |
| Day 3 | Quick handbook review + targeted flashcards |
Manage test anxiety
If nerves were part of the issue last time, this approach helps:
- Get to the testing center early
- Take a deep breath before each question
- Read carefully, many wrong answers come from rushing
- Trust what you studied instead of second-guessing every answer
Scheduling and Taking Your Retest
Once you’ve reviewed, practiced, and built confidence:
- Wait the required 24 hours
- Book your slot online or call your local DPS office
- Bring your original documents (proof of identity, residency, etc.)
- Pay the small retake fee at check-in
More details on ID requirements and scheduling steps can be found in the Texas Drivers License Guide.
Every driver starts exactly where you are, learning the rules, building confidence, and improving with each step. A retake isn’t a setback; it’s part of the process.
Make Your Retake the Last One
If you want structured preparation, instructor support, and the ability to take your DPS written exam from home, the Driving Quest Texas Adult Drivers Ed Course simplifies the whole process.
With a 98% pass rate, flexible modules, audio lessons, and test-focused quizzes, it’s built to help you move fast and pass confidently. Get started here: Enroll in Driving Quest’s Adult Drivers Ed Course.
Take the time, prepare with intention, and your next test can be the one that gets you your permit and gets you on the road to your driver’s test. You’re moving forward, stay with it!
