How to Get Your Driver's License in Texas
Last verified: 2026-03
Here is how to get your driver's license in Texas. Texas uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 18.
GDL Stages in Texas
Learner's Permit
Requirements
- Pass written knowledge test
- Pass vision screening
- Complete a driver education course (classroom phase)
- Parental consent if under 18
Restrictions
- Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older
Provisional License
Requirements
- Hold learner's permit for at least 6 months
- Complete behind-the-wheel driver education and impact Texas drivers program
- Pass road skills test
Restrictions
- No driving between midnight and 5 a.m.
- No more than 1 non-family passenger under 21
Full Unrestricted License
Requirements
- Turn 18
Restricted License Rules
- No driving between midnight and 5 a.m. unless for work, school, or a medical emergency.
- Only 1 non-family passenger under 21 is permitted during the provisional period.
How restrictions lift: All restrictions are automatically removed when the driver turns 18.
Road Test Overview
What Is Tested
- Vehicle control
- Turning and lane changes
- Parking
- Obeying traffic signals and signs
- Speed management
- Yielding right of way
Adult Licensing Pathway
If you are 18 or older, you do not need to complete the full GDL process. At 18, all provisional restrictions are lifted automatically. Adults who have never held a license must complete an adult driver education course and pass both tests.
Texas-Specific Information
Texas requires all new drivers under 25 to complete an approved driver education course, which is a broader age range than most states that only require it for minors under 18. The state also requires completion of the Impact Texas Drivers (ITD) program, a distracted and impaired driving awareness module.
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be at least 18 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in Texas.
Texas uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Learner's Permit, Provisional License, Full Unrestricted License.
- No driving between midnight and 5 a.m. unless for work, school, or a medical emergency.
- Only 1 non-family passenger under 21 is permitted during the provisional period.
Adults age 18 and older in Texas can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. At 18, all provisional restrictions are lifted automatically. Adults who have never held a license must complete an adult driver education course and pass both tests.
Need your permit first?
Start with the learner's permit before your full license.
Texas learner's permit guideCheck drivers ed requirements
Find out if drivers ed is required in Texas.
Texas drivers ed requirementsPrefer to learn online?
Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.
View Online CoursesThis information is based on Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website for the most current information.