Texas Drivers License

If you are a minor living in the State of Texas, getting your Texas drivers license involves a multi-step application process. Knowing which steps you need to complete can help make this process faster, easier, and much less stressful.

Don’t start this process in the dark – be prepared so that you can get your license with ease!

Closest Texas Department of Public Safety Office

Texas Graduated Drivers License Program

All minors living in the State of Texas are required to complete the Graduated Driver License (GDL) Program through a state approved Texas Drivers Ed course. This course is designed to help teen drivers slowly gain skill and experience behind-the-wheel, so that when they are issued a non-restricted license, they can safely operate a motor vehicle on Texas highways.

Texas Learners Permit

For minors, obtaining a learners permit is the first step in the process that will eventually lead to becoming a fully licensed driver. In order to apply for a learners permit, individuals must:

  • Be at least 15 years old
  • Have consent from a parent or legal guardian
  • Completed the required classroom portion of the Texas parent taught drivers ed course
  • Provide proof of a Verification of Enrollment and Attendance (VOE) form, high school diploma, or GED

Assuming you meet these requirements, you will then take a written test covering a range of topics including Texas traffic laws and safe driving techniques. Upon completion of this test, the DPS will issue your learners license.  A licensed adult of at least 21 years of age can then supervise you while you gain behind-the-wheel experience. This is your first step to getting your Texas drivers license.

Minor Restricted Drivers License (MRDL)

Commonly referred to as a “hardship license,” the MRDL is similar to the learner license, except it is issued to individuals who have a qualifying hardship. Acceptable hardships, which would make it necessary for a minor to drive a motor vehicle, include:

  • Economic hardship
  • Death-related emergencies
  • Sickness, illness, or disability in the family
  • Enrollment in a vocational education program

You can contact the Texas DPS if you have any questions regarding you’re eligibility for a MRDL.

Texas Provisional License

Once a minor turns 16 years old, he or she can apply for a Texas drivers license.  The DPS will issue a provisional driver license to the minor until he or she turns 18 years old. Though similar to a standard operator’s permit, the provisional license includes some restrictions. These restrictions include:

  • Individuals may not drive with more than one passenger under the age of 21
  • Individuals may not use a wireless communication device, except in the case of emergencies

The DPS will issue a non-restricted license when the driver reaches 18 years of age and the provisional license expires.