Published: May 28, 2025
Updated for 2025 Texas DPS Requirements
Earning your Texas driver's license is a significant milestone, symbolizing both freedom and responsibility. To navigate this journey successfully, it's crucial to understand the steps involved and prepare thoroughly. This guide outlines four essential steps to help you pass your Texas driving test with confidence.
1. Enroll in a State-Approved Drivers Ed Course
For teens under 18, Texas mandates completion of a state-approved driver education course, which includes:
32 hours of classroom instruction
7 hours of behind-the-wheel training
7 hours of in-car observation
These requirements can be fulfilled through traditional, online, or parent-taught programs, provided they are approved by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). (Learn more)
For adults aged 18–24, a 6-hour adult driver education course is required before testing for a driver's license. (Learn more)
2. Master the Written Knowledge Test
The Texas DPS written exam assesses your understanding of:
Road signs
Traffic laws
Safe driving practices
The exam consists of 30 multiple-choice questions, divided into two sections:
15 questions on road signs
15 questions on traffic laws
To pass, you must correctly answer at least 21 questions (70%).
Get Ahead with Permit Test Prep
Before you even step into the DPS office, boost your confidence with our Texas Permit Test Prep Course. It’s mobile-friendly, expertly designed, and built to help you ace the written test faster.
Includes:
Real DPS-style questions
Unlimited test attempts
Instant feedback so you learn as you go
3. Gain Practical Driving Experience
Before hitting the road for your official test, make sure you're covering all the must-know driving skills. For a deep dive into what's expected, check out 7 Skills to Practice Before Your Texas Driving Test.
Hands-on driving practice is crucial for building confidence and honing your skills. Ensure you:
Practice in various traffic conditions and environments
Focus on challenging maneuvers like parallel parking, three-point turns, and lane changes
Adhere to all traffic laws during practice sessions
Consistent practice helps reinforce safe driving habits and prepares you for the road test.
Hands-on driving practice is crucial for building confidence and honing your skills. Ensure you:
Practice in various traffic conditions and environments
Focus on challenging maneuvers like parallel parking, three-point turns, and lane changes
Adhere to all traffic laws during practice sessions
Consistent practice helps reinforce safe driving habits and prepares you for the road test.
4. Prepare for the Road Skills Test
Wondering what skills will be on the actual test? Don’t miss What Skills Are Tested on the Texas Driver's License Road Test for a comprehensive overview.
The road test evaluates your ability to operate a vehicle safely and adhere to traffic laws. Key components include:
Vehicle inspection: Ensure your car is in good working condition, with functioning lights, signals, brakes, and windshield wipers
Driving maneuvers: Demonstrate proficiency in starting, stopping, turning, backing up, and parking
Observational skills: Consistently check mirrors, blind spots, and maintain awareness of your surroundings
Make sure you're also prepared on the paperwork side. Check out What to Bring to The Texas Driving Test and Document Checklist for a Texas Driver’s Permit or License to avoid surprises.
Schedule your driving test through the Texas DPS appointment system. Ensure you bring all necessary documentation, including proof of identity, residency, and completion of driver education requirements.
The road test evaluates your ability to operate a vehicle safely and adhere to traffic laws. Key components include:
Vehicle inspection: Ensure your car is in good working condition, with functioning lights, signals, brakes, and windshield wipers
Driving maneuvers: Demonstrate proficiency in starting, stopping, turning, backing up, and parking
Observational skills: Consistently check mirrors, blind spots, and maintain awareness of your surroundings
Schedule your driving test through the Texas DPS appointment system. Ensure you bring all necessary documentation, including proof of identity, residency, and completion of driver education requirements.
Final Checklist Before Test Day
Here’s a quick snapshot of what you need:
Complete your driver education course
Study the Texas Driver Handbook
Log enough behind-the-wheel practice hours
Prep your vehicle for inspection
Bring the right documents to your DPS appointment
Want the full, printable checklist? It's included with your Texas Permit Test Prep Course—so you’ll know exactly what to expect on test day and never miss a step.
Test Your Knowledge Today
Not sure you’re ready? Take our Texas DMV Practice Test to assess your readiness and identify areas for improvement.
For added strategy and confidence, read Expert Tips to Pass Your Driving Test in 2025.
Pair it with the full Texas Permit Test Prep Course to build confidence, speed, and test-day success.
Not sure you’re ready? Take our Texas DMV Practice Test to assess your readiness and identify areas for improvement.
Pair it with the full Texas Permit Test Prep Course to build confidence, speed, and test-day success.
Getting your Texas driver's license is a rite of passage. By following these four essential steps and dedicating time to study and practice, you'll be well-equipped to pass your exam and drive safely on Texas roads.
