To get a Texas driver's license in 2025, you need to follow these main steps and prepare the required documents:
- Meet Eligibility Requirements:
- Be a Texas resident.
- Meet the age requirements:
- Under 18: Follow the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program (learner permit, provisional license, full license at 18).
- Adults 18-24: Complete a 6-hour adult driver education course.
- Adults 25 and older: No formal driver education required but recommended.
- Gather Required Documents:
- Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate, passport).
- Proof of Social Security number (card, W-2, or paystub).
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence (birth record, passport, permanent resident card).
- Proof of Texas residency (utility bill, lease, insurance statement).
- If you own a vehicle, proof of insurance and vehicle registration.
- For teens: Driver Education Certificate and proof of school enrollment or GED.
- If transferring from out-of-state, bring your out-of-state license.
- Complete Driver Education:
- Teens: Complete a 32-hour driver education course.
- Adults (18-24): Complete 6-hour adult driver education course.
- Apply at Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS):
- Complete application form.
- Pass vision test.
- Pass written knowledge test (or provide proof of passing in driver's ed).
- Pay the required fees.
- Practice and Take Driving Test (for teens and adults required to take it):
- Teens: Complete required hours of supervised driving and the Impact Texas Teen Driver (ITD) program.
- Adults 18-24: Complete the Texas Adult Driver program before the driving test.
- Schedule and pass the road skills driving test (bring your own vehicle).
- Receive Your License:
- If you pass all tests and meet requirements, you receive a temporary license until the official card arrives by mail.
In summary, you need proper identification documents, proof of residency and citizenship, completion of driver education (if under 25), passing written and driving tests, and payment of fees. The exact documents and steps depend on your age and if you are a new or out-of-state driver. This process ensures safety and legal compliance on Texas roads.
