Can I Get a Learner's Permit Before Taking My Driving Test
Yes. Adults ages 18 and older can apply for a Texas learner's permit to practice driving under supervision before taking the road test. A learner's permit allows you to drive with a licensed adult (21 or older) in the front passenger seat while you build your skills.
Who Should Consider a Learner's Permit
A learner's permit is useful if you have little or no prior driving experience. It gives you a legal way to practice with a supervising driver before taking the road test at the DPS or an approved third-party testing provider.
Adults who are confident in their driving ability and ready for the road test can skip the permit and go directly to their DPS license appointment after completing the course and ITAD. ITAD is required before the driving skills test, not for the learner's permit.
What You Need to Apply for a Learner's Permit
To apply for an adult learner's permit at the DPS:
ADEE-1317 certificate from Driving Logic (or proof of enrollment if you have not yet finished)
Proof of identity
Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence
Two proofs of Texas residency
Social Security number documentation
$16 application fee
Pass a vision test at the DPS
You do not need to take the written knowledge test if you have your ADEE-1317 certificate — the certificate proves you already passed it. If you have not yet finished the course, you may still be able to apply but may need to take the written test at the DPS office, so finishing the course first is recommended.
Permit Restrictions
With a learner's permit, you must:
Be accompanied by a licensed driver who is 21 or older in the front passenger seat at all times
Follow all Texas traffic laws
Texas learner's permits for adults are valid for 1 year, and you can practice anywhere in Texas while following these restrictions.