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Find up-to-date answers to the 30 most common questions about car registration in Texas. If your question isn’t listed, ask our DMV specialists!Frequently Asked Questions

Am I required to take a motorcycle training course?
Yes, Texas requires you to complete a motorcycle safety course when getting a motorcycle license. You can find a training location near you by visiting the Training Locations page on the Texas Department of Public Safety website. Upon finishing this course, you will need to present a certificate of completion when applying for your motorcycle driver’s license.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Texas

Am I required to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle?
When obtaining a motorcycle license endorsement, it is important to be aware of the state s helmet laws. For information regarding motorcycle helmet exceptions, visit the Texas Department of Public Safety website.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Texas

Can I renew my commercial drivers license online?
No, Texas requires commercial drivers to renew their TX CDL licenses in person. For more information, visit the Texas DPS website. When renewing your CDL license, make sure to bring your current Texas driver’s license with you as proof of identification.

For more information: Texas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

Can I take the DMV written test online?
No, the Texas Department of Public Safety currently does not allow individuals to take tests for a driving permit online. You will be required to take the written test in person. For your convenience, use our DPS locator to find an office near you, so you can schedule an appointment ahead of time and thus avoid any long lines. Prior to heading out the door, keep in mind that the written test consists of multiple-choice questions, which you can prepare for by taking a practice test.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Texas

Can I use my state CDL anywhere in the United States?
If you have an intrastate CDL license, you are permitted to drive commercially within the state of your CDL s issuance only. You may drive for personal reasons in a standard vehicle with an intrastate license out of state, though. An interstate license may be used for commercial or personal reasons anywhere in the US.

For more information: Texas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

Do I need a motorcycle license to ride a scooter or moped?
Yes, in order to operate a scooter or moped you will be required to obtain a class M motorcycle license. You will need to follow all the proper steps for a motorcycle license, including passing written and driving skills tests and meeting DPS vision standards. Additionally, when you apply, you must bring you proofs of identification, Social Secutity Number, legal presence in the United States and residency in the state of Texas.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Texas

Do I need to take a drivers ed course?
Yes, for a Texas learning permit you must complete a drivers ed course that should consist of the following:
  • 32 hours in a classroom setting
  • Behind-the-wheel hours for when you are ready to obtain a provisional license

Be aware that you can only obtain a provisional driver’s license if you are under the age of 18. Once you have received a provisional drivers license, it will expire on your 18th birthday.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Texas

How can I get a veteran designation on my ID card?
In Texas, you can obtain a veteran designation ID card if you are an individual who was honorably discharged and served in any of the following:
  • Texas National Guard
  • Coast Guard
  • Marine Corps
  • United States Army
  • Navy
  • Air Force

To complete the process, stop by a driving license office and present one of the documents below:

  • DD-214
  • DD-215
  • NGB-22
  • U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs disability letter
  • U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Proof of Service/Verification of Honorable Discharge

An original or certified copy will be accepted. For more information, visit the Veteran Services page of the Texas DPS website.

For more information: How to Apply for a Texas Identification Card

How do I apply for a commercial drivers license?
The process to obtain a commercial drivers license in Texas consists of various steps you need to follow and tests you will be required to pass. In order to get your license in a timely manner, follow the steps outlined below:

For more information: Texas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

How do I apply for a learner’s permit?
Texas has what is called a Graduated Driver License (GDL) Program, which must be completed by drivers under the age of 18. You first need to obtain a learner permit, also known as a drivers permit, before you can get a provisional license, followed by your standard driver s license.

To apply for a learners permit, complete the following:

  • Present proof of identity, Texas residency, Social Security Number and legal status in the country.
  • Complete a Verification of Enrollment and Attendance. You also have the option to present your high school diploma or GED.
  • Present driving education form provided by the driving instructor with note of classroom hours.
  • Pass any necessary writing and road skills tests.

To apply for a provisional license, you must do the following:

  • Present proof of identity, Texas residency, Social Security Number and legal status in the country.
  • Complete a Verification of Enrollment and Attendance.
  • You also have the option to present your high school diploma or GED.
  • Present a driving education form provided by the driving instructor with note of classroom hours.
  • Pass any necessary writing and road skills tests.

A learner s permit is granted to drivers under 18 but with the supervision of a licensed individual who is 21 or older. If you are 15 or older, you may apply. A provisional drivers license is issued to those under 18 and expires on the person s 18th birthday.

Texas also offers a Minor Restricted Driver License for those individuals who have a qualified hardship, such as death of a loved one or economic issues in the family. This restricted driving license expires on the individual s next birthday.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Texas

How do I apply for a motorcycle license?
In order to apply for a Texas motorcycle drivers license, you must adhere to the following:
  • Submit documents that prove your identity, Social Security Number, legal status in the country and Texas residency. Also present proof of car registration.
  • Fill out the Application for Texas Driver License or Identification Card (DL-14A) form.
  • Pass the written and driving skills tests.
  • Take a DPS-approved motorcycle safety course and present certificate of completion.
  • Meet DPS vision standards.
  • Pay any necessary fees.

You may be exempt from the motorcycle riding test if you are 18 or older, have taken a motorcycle safety course and hold a driver s license. You may also be exempt if you are exchanging your license from a different state to a motorcycle one in Texas. For other criteria that may have you exempt from this test, visit the Texas DPS website.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Texas

How do I get a duplicate ID card?
In Texas, the only way to get an ID card replacement is in person. To do so, file a police report if your identification card was lost or stolen. Thereafter, you can visit a local driving license office and present an Application for Renewal/Replacement/Change of a Texas Driver License or Identification Card (DL-43) form

Additionally, you will also need to present proof of identity and legal status in the country.

If you are currently outside of Texas, you can review the helpful Out of State or Out of Country Renewal/Replacement/Change of Texas Driver License or Identification (DL/ID) Card for your convenience.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Texas Driver’s License or ID Card

How do I renew my driving permit?
After you have had your learners permit for six months, you will be able to move onto a provisional drivers license. You will be required to complete behind-the-wheels driver’s educational training and 32 hours in a classroom setting before you can proceed to obtaining a provisional license. You must obtain your Texas provisional driver’s license in person at a DMV branch.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Texas

How do I renew my ID card?
In Texas, you can renew your DMV ID card either online, by phone, in person or by mail.

Online

To apply online, you can do so by visiting the Texas DPS Driver License Renewal page.

By Phone

Call the Texas Department of Public Safety at 1-866-357-3639.

By Mail

In order to renew your ID card by mail, follow the instructions on the DPS renewal notice you receive.

In Person

Head to a nearby driving license office to begin the renewal process. For your convenience, use our DPS locator to find one near you.

For more information: How to Apply for a Texas Identification Card

How do I renew my medical report for a commercial license?
You can renew your medical report for your license to drive commercial vehicles by having a medical examiner fill out the form and submitting it to the DMV. To find an office nearby, use our convenient DPS locator.

For more information: Texas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

How do I renew my motorcycle license?
In Texas, you can apply for motorcycle license renewal by mail, in person, online or by phone.

To renew your motorcycle license online, you need to meet certain requirements, including but not limited to having your Social Security Number in the DPS system.

In person, make sure to visit a nearby DPS branch. Keep in mind that you are required to renew in person if you are 79 or older. If you prefer to submit your renewal request by mail, you will need to follow the instructions as set forth in the renewal notice you receive.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Texas

How does a military member obtain a motorcycle license?
Follow the same steps for a standard drivers license to apply for a motorcycle drivers license. If you are currently stationed outside the state, you can rest assured that your license will stay valid for up to 90 days after you have been discharged. Thereafter, you should visit a nearby Texas DPS office to begin the process of renewing your driver’s license.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Texas

How long do I need my learners permit before I can get my drivers license?
You can apply for your TX learners permit at the age of 15, however, a parent or legal guardian will be required to sign your application on your behalf. You must hold the driver’s permit for at least six months before you can then apply for a provisional license. You will be able to apply for a standard license once you have reached the age of 18.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Texas

How long will it take to get my new ID card?
By getting in contact with the Texas Department of Public Safety, a driving license representative will be able to provide you with further information about when you can expect to receive your ID card. You can also ask in person at a driving license office. Meanwhile, be aware that the fee to obtain an ID card is $16 if you are under the age of 60. For individuals who are 60 or over, the cost is reduced to $6. Additionally, those over the age of 60 will not be required to renew their identification card.

For more information: How to Apply for a Texas Identification Card

If I’m out of state and lost my ID, how can I get a new one?
For your convenience, Texas provides a packet with thorough information for those who need to replace ID card credentials and are currently out-of-state. Familiarize yourself with the Out of State or Out of Country Renewal/Replacement/Change of Texas Driver License or Identification (DL/ID) Card documents. This packet contains information that includes but is not limited to the following:
  • Social Security Number requirements
  • Commercial driver license holders
  • Active duty military members
  • Application for renewal or duplicate driver’s license or ID
  • Adding a motorcycle license to your TX drivers license
  • Replacement forms
  • Texas Residency Affidavit

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Texas Driver’s License or ID Card

Is there a minimum age I have to be to get a commercial drivers license?
Texas allows you to get a commercial driving license at the age of 18. However, if you wish to obtain an interstate license, you must be at least 21. Regardless of your age, you will still be required to fulfill all the necessary requirements of obtaining a commercial driver’s license in the state. This includes passing various exams, such as a road skills test, vision test and written knowledge test.

For more information: Texas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the age restrictions to ride a motorcycle?
If you have never obtained a drivers license before, the first step is to apply for an instruction permit, which you can do so at the age of 15. If you are over the age of 18, you will not be required to complete classroom hours as part of a driver education course.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Texas

What are the available commercial license endorsements?
When you apply for a CDL, you can have one of the following types of CDL endorsements:
  • H endorsement: To operate a vehicle that holds hazardous material
  • N endorsement: To operate a tank vehicle
  • S endorsement: To operate a school bus
  • X endorsement: To operate a combination of hazardous material and tank vehicle
  • P endorsement: To operate a vehicle with passengers

For more information: Texas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the fees associated with an ID card?
The fees to apply for ID card credentials depend on your age. If you are under the age of 60, it is $16. If you are 60 or over, the fee is $6 and has no expiration date. These fees also apply for a renewed ID card. If you are replacing your ID card, the cost is $11. For temporary visitors in the United States, you can also obtain a limited term identification card for $16. Fees may vary.

For more information: How to Apply for a Texas Identification Card

What are the learners permit restrictions during my first year?
Obtaining a learner’s permit is your first step to getting a standard driver’s license. However, while you are a learner’s permit holder, you should take note of certain restrictions that will apply. Failure to adhere to these rules may result in a traffic ticket or the revocation of your license. To use your permit for driving, you must be mindful of the below restrictions:
  • A licensed adult who is 21 or older must be with you while you are driving.
  • A licensed adult who is 21 or older must be with you in the front seat.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Texas

What are the medical certifications required to obtain a CDL?
To obtain a commercial driver’s license in Texas, not only are you required to pass several tests, but you will also need to present a few certifications/form. In Texas, CDL drivers need to submit the following:

Additionally, depending on your commercial driving license type, you will be required to present a medical examiner certificate.

For more information: Texas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the penalties for getting a traffic ticket with a driver’s permit?
If you have a Texas learner s permit and are issued traffic fines, you face higher penalties. To find out more information about any potential consequences, get in touch with the county clerk office in the county you received your ticket.

For more information: Traffic Tickets and Violations in Texas

What are the requirements to operate a three-wheel motorcycle?
For information about your three-wheel motorcycle and the process to register it or obtain a driving license, contact the Texas Department of Public Safety through their website. Keep in mind that in order to get a motorcycle license in Texas, there are various rules and guidelines you will need to follow. Some of these include but are not limited to passing a written knowledge exam, as well as a road skills driving test.

At the time of your application, you will also need to present proof of your identity, residency in the state, legal presence in the country and verification of your Social Security number.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Texas

What documents do I need to get a learner’s permit?
When getting drivers permit credentials, you must present proof of:
  • Social Security Number, such as a Social Security Number card or W-2.
  • Identity, such as your passport or permanent resident card. For a full list of acceptable documentation, visit here.
  • Texas residency, two documents such as a utility bill and mortgage statement. For a full list of acceptable documentation, visit here.
  • Legal status in the US, such as your United States passport or permanent resident card.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Texas

What documents do I need to get a motorcycle license?
To apply for your Texas motorcycle endorsement, present documentation that proves the following:
  • Your identity
  • Social Security Number
  • Legal status in the country
  • Texas residency

Additionally, you will need to fill out the proper motorcycle license application and present proof of car registration. To obtain a motorcycle license, a certificate of completion from a motorcycle safety course is also required.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Texas

What exams do I need to pass to get a motorcycle license?
When applying for your TX motorcycle driving license, you need to pass the following exams:
  • A written knowledge exam
  • A driving skills test
  • A standard visions exam

Your written knowledge exam will consist of both basic knowledge questions, as well as motorcycle knowledge.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Texas

What happens to my commercial driver license if I am convicted of a DUI?
If this is your first conviction, you may have your CDL license disqualified for at least a year. You may also face criminal charges, and if that is the case, you are also required to notify your employer of the offense within 30 days. If you disregard this, you will face additional penalties. To get your license reinstated, you will first need to complete your suspension period, then meet any other additional requirements related to your offense.

For more information: Texas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What is an ID card?
A Texas DMV ID card is a document that helps you identify yourself when necessary, whether it is with an authority figure, such as the police, or at a local bar. An identification card is mostly used by individuals who do not drive, yet need an identification document with them at all times.

For more information: How to Apply for a Texas Identification Card

What is the passing score for a written test?
The written test for your drivers permit consists of several multiple-choice questions. For information regarding the passing score, contact a local DPS branch. To be best prepared, take some time to study for the written test ahead of time. By taking a practice test, you will learn all the “ins and outs” about road safety and how to become a responsible driver. The more prepare you are, the more confident you will feel during your exam.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Texas

What test do I need to take for my learners permit?
In the state of Texas, you are required to pass a knowledge written exam in order to obtain your learner’s permit. This exam will be taken at the DPS office. Prior to obtaining a regular driver’s license, though, you will also need to pass a road skills test with your vehicle and a meet vision standards as defined by the Texas DMV. Aside from these exams, you must also present proof of identity, residency and legal status when applying for your learner’s permit.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Texas

What tests do I have to take to obtain a CDL?
In order to be granted a commercial driver’s license in the state of Texas, there are several steps you need to follow. As part of the process, you will be required to take a few exams, such as the ones listed below:
  • A writing knowledge test
  • A road skills test
  • A vision test

For more information: Texas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

When does my ID card expire?
You are required to renew ID card documentation every six years in Texas. However, this is not the case for those individuals who are 60 or older. If you are a senior in the state of Texas, you will not be required to renew your identification card as it will contain no expiration date.

Keep in mind, though, that if you are under the age of 60 and you have an identification card that has been expired for more than two years, you will need to re-apply for a new one.

For more information: How to Apply for a Texas Identification Card

Where can I obtain an ID card?
You can get ID card documentation at a nearby DPS office. For your convenience, use our DPS locator to locate one in your area. When visiting a DPS office, make sure to bring all proper documentation with you. You can see a list of acceptable documents by taking a look at our ID Cards page. By gathering all the necessary items, you will avoid having to return a second time to get your identification card.

For more information: How to Apply for a Texas Identification Card

Who can sign for my permit or license if I am under 18?
A parent or legal guardian can sign a drivers permit application on your behalf. It is highly recommended that you schedule an appointment at your local DPS office with a parent or legal guardian present, so to avoid any issues.

In addition to completing an application, you will also need to present proof of the following:

  • Your Texas residency
  • Your legal status in the United States
  • Verification of your Social Security Number
  • Completion of a driver’s education course

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Texas