Texas DMV Practice Test 2026

The Texas knowledge test is administered by the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and is required for all first-time driver's license applicants. The test has 30 multiple-choice questions, and you need at least 21 correct answers — a 70% passing score — making it one of the lower thresholds in the country.

Where and How to Take It

The test is taken in person at any Texas DPS driver license office. Appointments are required at most locations and can be booked online through the DPS scheduler. Alternatively, if you're enrolled in an approved Parent-Taught Driver Education course, you can take the knowledge test online through the course and receive a certificate to present at DPS — skipping the in-person written test entirely.

What to Bring

Bring proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), your Social Security card, two proofs of Texas residency, and proof of vehicle insurance. Under-18 applicants need parental consent and a driver education certificate. Under-25 applicants need proof of driver education completion. The learner license fee is $16, and the knowledge exam fee is $11.

Test Day

After document verification, you'll be seated at a computer terminal. The 30 questions cover traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, DUI laws, and distracted driving. There is no formal time limit. Results are displayed immediately. Texas tests are available in English and Spanish only.

If You Don't Pass

If you score below 70%, you can retake the test the next business day. There's no limit on retake attempts, but you'll pay the $11 knowledge exam fee each time. Study the Texas Driver Handbook, available for free download from the DPS website.

Texas-Specific Details

Texas requires driver education for all applicants under 25, making it one of the strictest states for new driver requirements. The state uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system for under-18 drivers with 30 hours of classroom instruction and 44 hours of behind-the-wheel training. Texas is also notable for its 70% passing score — lower than the national average of 80%.

Learner License vs. Full License

After passing the written test, you receive a Phase 1 learner license. You must hold it for at least 6 months. Under-18 drivers progress to a Phase 2 provisional license with nighttime (midnight-5am) and passenger restrictions before receiving a full unrestricted license at age 18.