The Ultimate 2025 Guide to Getting Your Texas Driver’s License

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re about to embark on an exciting journey—getting your Texas driver’s license! Whether you’re a teen eager to hit the road, an adult finally taking the plunge, or a newcomer to Texas navigating the process, we’ve got you covered.

Yes, the process can seem overwhelming at first—paperwork, tests, courses—but don’t worry! We’ll break it all down, step by step, so that you can breeze through it. And if you want to make it even easier? Check out Driving Quest’s state-approved adult driver’s ed course, available 24/7 and in Spanish!

Who Needs a Texas Driver’s License?

A Texas driver’s license is a must-have if you plan on hitting the road legally in the Lone Star State. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to Texas, here’s who needs one:

Texas residents: If you live in Texas and plan to drive on public roads, a valid Texas driver’s license is required.
New Texas residents: Recently moved from another state? You have 90 days to transfer your out-of-state license to a Texas one.
Immigrants and international visitors: If you’re staying in Texas for an extended period and want to drive, you’ll need a Texas license (or an international permit if applicable).
Expired license holders: If your Texas driver’s license has expired, you’ll need to renew it to continue driving legally.
First-time drivers: If you’ve never held a driver’s license before, you must go through the licensing process to obtain one.

Now, let’s talk about the step-by-step process based on your age and situation.

Steps to Get Texas Driver’s License

Step	Requirement	Details
1	Meet eligibility requirements	Ensure you meet Texas residency, age, and documentation requirements.
2	Choose license type	Learner’s Permit, Provisional License, Full License, CDL, or Motorcycle License.
3	Complete driver education	Teens: 32-hour course; Adults (18-24): 6-hour course. Required for all under 25.
4	Apply for a Learner’s Permit	Submit documents, pass the vision & written test, and pay the fee.
5	Practice driving and take itd course	Teens: 44 hours of practice; ITD course required for all new drivers.
6	Pass the driving test	Schedule an appointment, bring required documents, and pass the road test.
7	Get your license	If you pass, you receive a temporary license until the official one arrives by mail.

Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Requirements

driving test. instructor checking

Before you start, make sure you’re eligible! Texas has different rules depending on your age:

Teens (15-17): Must complete an approved driver’s education course and meet the Graduated Driver License (GDL) requirements.
Adults (18-24): Must complete a state-approved 6-hour adult driver education course.
Adults 25+: No formal education is required, but taking a driver’s ed course can boost your confidence and increase your chances of passing the test on the first try!

And, of course, everyone must:

Prove identity (birth certificate, passport, etc.)
Show Texas residency (utility bill, lease agreement, etc.)
Provide a Social Security number (or proof of ineligibility)

Step 2: Choose Your License Type

Before applying, it’s important to understand the different types of driver’s licenses available in Texas. Each type is designed to accommodate drivers at various levels of experience and age groups:

Learner’s permit (15+ years old): This permit allows beginners to start driving under supervision. You must always be accompanied by a licensed adult (21+ years old) in the front passenger seat. This is typically the first step for teens but can also be an option for adults who want extra practice before taking the driving test.
Provisional license (16-17 years old): After holding a learner’s permit for at least six months and passing the road test, teens can upgrade to a provisional license. This stage provides more driving independence but comes with restrictions such as a curfew (no driving between midnight and 5 AM) and passenger limitations (no more than one non-family passenger under 21).
Full unrestricted license (18+): This is the standard driver’s license for adults 18 and older. Once you meet all the requirements, including passing the driving test, you will receive an unrestricted Class C license, allowing you to drive at any time without supervision.
Commercial driver’s license (CDL): If you plan to drive large trucks, buses, or other commercial vehicles, you’ll need to apply for a CDL. This requires additional training, testing, and endorsements depending on the type of vehicle you intend to operate.
Motorcycle license: If you want to ride a motorcycle, you must obtain a motorcycle endorsement (Class M) by completing a state-approved motorcycle safety course and passing a motorcycle-specific written and road test.

Choosing the right license type ensures that you meet all the necessary requirements for your driving experience level. If you’re an adult new to driving, taking a structured course like Driving Quest’s adult driver’s ed can help you build confidence and prepare for your test more effectively.

Step 3: Complete Required Driver Education (for Teens & Adults 18-24)

Teen holding car key and happy for getting her driving license approval

If you’re under 25, you MUST complete a state-approved driver’s education course before applying for a license. Texas law mandates this training to ensure new drivers understand road rules, traffic laws, and safe driving techniques.

Requirements for Teens (15-17)

Teens must complete a 32-hour driver’s education course, which includes:

32 hours of classroom instruction covering road signs, traffic laws, and defensive driving techniques.
7 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction with a certified driving instructor.
7 hours of in-car observation where the student watches another driver’s lesson.
30 additional hours of supervised driving practice, including 10 hours at night.

After completing the course, teens will receive a Driver’s Education Certificate (DE-964), which is required to apply for a learner’s permit.

Requirements for Adults (18-24)

Adults between 18 and 24 must complete a 6-hour adult driver education course, which can be taken online or in a classroom. This course covers:

Texas traffic laws and road signs.
Safe driving habits and defensive driving techniques.
The risks of driving under the influence and distracted driving.

After finishing the course, adults will receive a Driver Education Completion Certificate, which they must bring to the DPS when applying for their license.

Looking for an easy and convenient way to complete your course? Driving Quest’s state-approved, 100% online driver’s ed program is available 24/7 and in Spanish! Here is how you can even complete it in one weekend!

Step 4: Apply for a Learner’s Permit (If Needed)

For teens or adults with no prior driving experience:

Gather required documents (proof of identity, residency, Social Security number).
Visit the DPS office and complete the application form.
Pass a vision test.
Take the written knowledge test (or provide proof you passed it in driver’s ed).
Pay the required fee ($15-$20 for teens, $33 for adults).

Once you pass, you’ll get your learner’s permit, allowing you to practice driving under supervision.

Step 5: Practice Driving and Take the Impact Texas Drivers Program

man getting out of car on a driving test

Before taking your driving test, Texas requires you to complete the Impact Texas Drivers (ITD) program, a safety course designed to educate new drivers about the dangers of distracted driving and safe driving habits.

Impact Texas Drivers Program Requirements:

Teens (under 18): Must take the Impact Texas Teen Drivers (ITTD) course, a 2-hour video-based online course.
Adults (18-24): Must take the Impact Texas Adult Drivers (ITAD) course, a 1-hour video-based online course.

Both courses are free and must be completed within 90 days before your driving test.

Driving Practice Requirements for Teens

Teens must complete 44 hours of supervised driving practice, including

30 hours of daytime driving
10 hours of nighttime driving
4 hours of guided observation

A licensed adult (21+ years old) must supervise the practice sessions. Keeping a log of driving hours is required, as the DPS may ask for proof before scheduling your test.

Driving Practice Tips for Success

Start in low-traffic areas: Practice in parking lots or quiet neighborhoods before progressing to busy streets.
Gradually increase challenges: As confidence builds, practice in different conditions, including highways and night driving.
Master parallel parking and defensive driving: These are key skills tested on the driving exam.

By completing the ITD program and putting in sufficient driving practice, you’ll be well-prepared for your road test. Looking for extra help? Driving Quest’s driver education courses provide additional guidance and training to ensure you pass with confidence!

Step 6: Schedule and Pass the Driving Test

Once you feel confident behind the wheel, it’s time for the road test!

Schedule an appointment at a DPS office or an approved third-party driving school.
Bring the required documents, including your ITD certificate and proof of insurance.
Take your driving test (you’ll be graded on parking, lane changes, turns, and general road safety).
If you pass—congratulations! You’ll get a temporary paper license until your official one arrives in the mail.

Pro tip: Not confident in your driving skills? A refresher course can help! Enroll in Driving Quest’s adult driver ed course to boost your confidence and skills.

Step 7: Understand License Renewal and Replacement

Your Texas driver’s license is typically valid for up to eight years, and you can renew it online if you meet the eligibility requirements.

Lost your license? You can request a replacement online or in person at the DPS.

Special Considerations for New Residents & Immigrants

Moving to Texas from another state?

You have 90 days to transfer your out-of-state license.
No written or driving test required if your license is valid.

Immigrants and Non-Citizens

Must provide proof of lawful presence (visa, green card, etc.).
Some foreign licenses are valid for a limited period—check with DPS for specifics.

Drive Safe with Driving Quest

Getting your Texas driver’s license in 2025 doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow the steps, stay organized, and—if you want to make it easier—enroll in Driving Quest’s online course.

With state-approved courses in Spanish and available 24/7, you’ll be ready to pass your test and hit the road with confidence! Contact us today to learn more.