What’s on the Texas permit test?

On test day in Texas: 30 questions, multiple choice, 70% to pass. That’s around 21 answers correct. The pool covers signs, signals, right of way, speed and following distance, alcohol rules, and a slice of Texas-only material from the state handbook. Texas tests heavily on right-on-red exceptions, school-bus rules, and the state’s specific alcohol thresholds.

Most questions are factual: what a sign means, who has the right of way at an uncontrolled intersection, what the speed limit is in a school zone. A small share are scenario-style and ask you to pick the safest action.

If you study generic DMV practice, you’ll be missing the Texas-specific section the test draws from. The handbook has rules unique to Texas; practicing on Texas-specific questions is the fix.

Sample questions (free, no signup)

Here are 6 practice questions in the Texas format. Tap each to reveal the answer and the explanation. Want unlimited? Get the app.

Question 1: What is the minimum age requirement to apply for a learner license in Texas?

• 16 years old
• 15 years old
• 14 years old

Correct answer: 15 years old

Why: In Texas, a person applying for a learner license must be at least 15 but no more than 18 years of age.

💡 Memory tip: 15 years old = Texas learner license age; think ‘1-5’.

Question 2: How long must you hold a learner license before applying for a provisional license in Texas?

• At least three months
• At least one year
• At least six months

Correct answer: At least six months

Why: Phase One requires applicants under 18 to hold a valid learner license for a minimum of six months prior to the issuance of a provisional license.

💡 Memory tip: Six before Provisional: keep your learner license for six months.

Question 3: What is the number one killer related to driving according to Texas law?

• Distracted driving
• Alcohol
• Speeding

Correct answer: Alcohol

Why: According to the Texas Driver Handbook, alcohol is the number one killer on Texas roadways, causing more traffic fatalities than any other single factor.

💡 Memory tip: Texas roads: Alcohol is the #1 killer. Remember it on test day.

Question 4: What should drivers be most alert for on Texas roadways?

• Weather conditions and road maintenance
• Only construction zones and school areas
• Distractions in their own vehicle and impaired or unsafe drivers

Correct answer: Distractions in their own vehicle and impaired or unsafe drivers

Why: Drivers must avoid distractions in their own vehicle while also staying alert for impaired or unsafe drivers sharing the roadway - failing to do so could have tragic consequences.

💡 Memory tip: Texas Two-Step: inside distractions; outside impaired/unsafe drivers.

Question 5: What type of driver license is required to operate an autocycle in Texas?

• Commercial driver license
• Class C driver license
• Motorcycle license only

Correct answer: Class C driver license

Why: According to the Texas Driver Handbook, an autocycle can be operated under a Class C driver license. An autocycle is defined as a motor vehicle with not more than three wheels, equipped with a steering wheel and seating that doesn’t require straddling.

💡 Memory tip: Class C license = 3 wheels, no straddle; think autocycle.

Question 6: In Texas, what does DWLI stand for?

• Driving While License Invalid
• Driving While License Incomplete
• Driving Without Legal Insurance

Correct answer: Driving While License Invalid

Why: DWLI stands for ‘Driving While License Invalid’.

💡 Memory tip: DWLI = Driving While License Invalid; no legal license, no drive.

Texas-specific rules to know

Eight items pulled from the Texas handbook that we keep seeing on the test. Quick read; high payoff.

• Brakes - You should never pump antilock brakes.
• Pedestrians - Turning may result in the blind pedestrian becoming disoriented and vulnerable to being hit by another right turning vehicle when attempting to cross the street, as blind pedestrians with a green…
• Speed limits - Although the speed limit is considered the maximum speed, you may need to drive slower depending on visibility and road conditions.
• Parking - You must not park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant to ensure emergency access for fire department personnel.
• Right of way - At an all-way stop, when vehicles arrive at the same time, the vehicle to the right gets to go first.
• Driving rule - Keeping your wheels pointed straight ahead until it is safe to start your turn.
• Driving rule - Pavement markings are essential traffic control devices used to guide traffic flow, indicate lane boundaries, and provide important information to drivers about road conditions and traffic patterns.
• Driving rule - The supervising driver must be seated beside the driver when supervision is required.

How to schedule your Texas permit test

You can typically schedule your Texas permit test online through the official Texas DMV / motor-vehicle agency website. Bring proof of identity, residency, and (if under 18) the required parent/guardian documentation. Fees vary by jurisdiction - check your local DMV office for current pricing. Some states require completion of driver’s education before testing.

This page references rules from the Texas Driver’s Handbook. We are not affiliated with the Texas DMV.

Studying in a neighboring state?

Each state’s exam is different. If you’re studying for a different state, here are nearby ones: New Mexico permit test practice, Oklahoma permit test practice, Arkansas permit test practice.

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are on the Texas permit test?

The Texas DMV permit test has 30 questions. You need to answer at least 70% correctly to pass.

What is the passing score for the Texas permit test?

You need 70% to pass - that’s roughly 21 out of 30 questions correct.

How old do I have to be to take the Texas permit test?

The minimum age in Texas is 15. Check your local DMV office for any additional requirements like a parent’s signature or driver’s education enrollment.

Can I retake the Texas permit test if I fail?

Yes. Most Texas DMV offices let you retake the test, often after a short waiting period. Some locations charge a small re-test fee. Check your local DMV office for the exact rules.

Is the DMV Ready app good for Texas?

For Texas: 30-question practice exams, 70% pass mark, content from the Texas driver handbook. Same shape as the real test.

See all 50 states + DC →