Texas Learner License

By Javier Marín, Editor·Last reviewed September 2026·How we check this

The Texas learner license — sometimes called the instruction permit — is the entry point into the state's Graduated Driver License program. It lets a 15-year-old start practicing on Texas roads with a licensed adult in the right seat, while building toward a full Class C license.

Who can apply

A Texas teenager can apply for a learner license at age 15, but only after:

Beginning an approved driver education course — either traditional classroom, online classroom, or the parent-taught course (PTDE) under DPS oversight.
Completing the first 6 hours of classroom instruction in that course (the "Phase 1" certificate the school issues lets DPS process the permit).

An adult applicant 18+ who is brand-new to driving and chooses to start with a learner license follows a streamlined version of the same process and is not required to complete a teen driver education course; instead, an adult driver education course of 6 hours is required for unlicensed adults under 25.

Documents required

At a DPS office, the teen and a parent or legal guardian bring:

A completed Form DL-14A signed by the parent.
The driver education school's VOE/Phase 1 verification (or the PTDE program completion certificate for the relevant phase).
Proof of school enrollment, attendance, or a high school diploma — Texas's Verification of Enrollment and Attendance (VOE) form is accepted and is the easiest option for current high school students.
Proof of identity and U.S. citizenship or lawful presence.
Proof of Social Security number.
Two proofs of Texas residency in the parent's name (the teen does not need to be on the documents).

The knowledge test

Most teens who completed a state-approved driver education course satisfy the knowledge test through the course itself, and DPS waives the in-office written exam. Teens who do not have that course-issued waiver take the standard 30-question Texas knowledge test at the DPS office, with a 70% minimum to pass.

Vision screening and fees

DPS performs an in-office vision screening at issuance — a 20/40 minimum with corrective lenses if needed. The application fee for a Texas learner license is $16, paid at the DPS office, and the issued permit is valid through the teen's 18th birthday.

Restrictions while holding a learner license

A Texas learner license holder must:

Always drive with a licensed adult 21 or older seated in the front passenger seat.
Hold the learner license for at least 6 months before being eligible for a provisional license, and complete the 6-month period without a moving violation conviction.
Not use a wireless communication device, including hands-free, while driving.
Wear a seat belt and ensure all passengers do.

The 30 supervised hours

While holding the learner license, a Texas teen must complete 30 hours of supervised behind-the-wheel driving, including 10 hours at night. Supervising adults track the hours on the DPS-supplied logbook, which the teen will turn in when applying for a provisional license. Driver education behind-the-wheel hours (typically 7 hours plus 7 observation) are tracked separately by the school and count toward the course but not toward the 30 GDL hours. Once the six months and 30 hours are complete, the teen is eligible to take the provisional license road test.