Prepare for a Texas car learner license with handbook-based knowledge review and a clear application plan. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) handles driver licensing, including the learner, provisional, and adult routes. Use the guides below to check what to study, what to bring, and how the road test fits your timeline. Keep practice-test scores separate from official eligibility: learning the rules supports your application, while documents, education, and testing requirements determine the next step.
Last verified: November 2, 2026
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Knowledge-test questions | Not listed by DPS; our practice tests use 30 |
| Passing score | 70% in the Texas Driver Handbook; app practice requires 21/30 |
| Minimum learner age | 15 for teen learners |
| Listed application fees | $16 under-18 learner; $33 new license age 18–84 |
| What to bring | Identity, citizenship/lawful presence, residency, SSN; teen education, school and authorization documents |
| Official handbook | Texas Driver Handbook |
| Licensing agency | Texas DPS Driver License Division |
What changed
- DPS confirms annual noncommercial safety inspection ended January 1, 2025. Emissions requirements remain where applicable, and a road-test vehicle must still pass the examiner’s safety check. Do not use an old all-vehicles annual-inspection quiz answer as current guidance.
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What score do you need on the Texas car knowledge test?
The handbook requires 70%. Use practice questions to find weak rules, then check them in the official handbook. A practice pass is useful feedback, but it is not an official test result or a guarantee that your application is complete.
Can a teen start with a learner license at 15?
Yes, after meeting the education and application requirements. A learner must drive with a licensed adult age 21 or older in the front passenger seat. Your learner license does not allow solo practice, even for a short familiar trip.
Can driver education satisfy the knowledge-test requirement?
DPS accepts qualifying evidence that a teen passed the knowledge examination during driver education. If it was not completed there, test as directed at DPS. An app score does not count as a course examination certificate; check your actual completion documents.
What happens after supervised learner practice?
Teens move toward provisional eligibility by meeting the holding period, education, practice, ITTD, and driving-test requirements. The provisional license still has passenger, nighttime, and phone restrictions. Confirm the requirements before changing from supervised to independent driving.
How should adults use these Texas guides?
Choose the adult first-license or transfer route rather than applying every teen rule. Education requirements depend on age and prior licensing. A valid out-of-state license may qualify for testing waivers, while a new driver needs the appropriate learning and testing steps.