Learners Permit requirements for DPS

VOE Requirements:

  • Enrolled in a public, private, or home school with at least 90% attendance in the past semester.
  • A signature (a stamped or computer-generated signature of a school official is acceptable)

A VOE is valid for 30 days from issuance or 90 days from issuance between months of June through August.

Unable to Obtain a VOE form:

  • Provide last report card with name, attendance record, and grades if you apply in the summer and are still enrolled.
  • Provide proof of active enrollment in a high school equivalency exam preparation program for the last 45 days.

A Learner License has the following restrictions:

  • You must have a licensed adult 21 years or older in the front passenger seat when driving.
  • No cell phones allowed.  All cell phones use is prohibited, including hands-free devices unless it's an emergency.
  • If your license is suspended at any time while you hold a learner license, the initial six-month period increases by the number of days of the suspension.  This is to make sure you hold a valid learner license for a full six-months.

A Learner license must be held for at least six months unless you turn 18; it will expire on your 18th birthday.

How to apply for your Learner License
 

  1. Visit Driver License Services – Appointments to schedule an appointment at your local driver license office.  Bring a parent, legal guardian or evidence to waive parental authorization (Example:  emancipated)
  2. Complete the application, available online or at the driver license office.
  3. Provide the following documentation to the license and permit specialist:
    1. Completed driver license application form
    2. Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Presence (if not a U.S. Citizen)
    3. Proof of Texas Residency.
    4. Proof of Identity.
  4. Social Security Number (verified electronically) take immunation record
  5. Texas Driver Education Certificate showing classroom completion.
    1. Certified Driver Training Schools – (DE-964/DEE-964
  6. Evidence of successfully passing the driver knowledge exam (If you have not taken this test during the classroom portion of driver education, you will take it at the driver license office).
  7. Provide a high school diploma, it’s equivalent (GED) or completed Verification of Enrollment and Attendance (VOE form)
  8. Provide Biometric Information (signature and thumbprints)
  9. Have your picture taken.
  10. Pay the application fee.
  11. Pass Vision Exam.

When you get your learner license, you will receive a temporary permit to drive right away.  Double-check the information on it before you leave, let the specialist know if there are any mistakes.

 

Your official learner license will usually arrive by mail within 2 – 3 weeks. You can track it on our mailing status webpage.

What are the requirements for free drivers training?

 

  • You are younger than 18 years of age and residing in foster care now

  • You are at least 18 years old, but younger than 21, in foster care being paid for by the Department of Family and Protective Services

  • You are younger than 26 years old and aged out of the Texas Foster Care system

  • You are a child* or youth** who has experienced or are experiencing homelessness¹

  • You experienced dating violence, or you have a parent who experienced dating violence²

  • You experienced family violence, or you have a parent who experienced family violence³

 

 

Do you offer behind-the-wheel training?

Yes, we offer behind-the-wheel training as part of our comprehensive programs. Our experienced instructors will guide you through real-life driving scenarios.

What is the minimum age requirement to enroll in your programs?

The minimum age requirement to enroll in our programs is 15 years old.

How do you prove you are homeless?

Our staff can email you the necessary form to be completed by the following.

This form can be completed by your school’s homeless liaison or staff at a program that provides services to people experiencing homelessness, such as a drop-in, emergency shelter, transitional living, or housing programs.

How do you prove you are a victim of domestic violence?

If you have experienced family violence², dating violence³, or are the child of someone who experienced family or dating violence, you can get your proof one of these ways:

  • The Certification Letter for Family or Dating Violence signed by one of the professionals listed on the form

  • You can use the Eligibility Verification Form instead. Please keep in mind that an advocate* will need to fill out this form for you.

An advocate may include:

  • A family violence center staff member who assisted the victim

  • A licensed medical care or mental health provider

  • The director of an emergency shelter

  • A transitional housing director

  • The director of a transitional living program

How does the program work for foster kids?

If you are in foster care or extended foster care right now, you can get your proof in this way:

Ask your caseworker or Preparation for Adult Living (PAL) staff to fill out one of the following forms:

  • Youth or Young Adult in Foster Care Residency Verification for a Driver License or State Identification Card Fee Waiver
    (Texas Department of Family and Protective Services Form K-908-2042)

  • Foster Care Verification Form
    (Texas Department of Family and Protective Services Form K-908-4200)

How does the program work for disabled youth and adults?

They must show proof of disability. We will get you registered and a caseworker will contact you.

Do you provide third-party driving testing?

No. Instead, we offer appointment scheduling services at several DPS offices. There is a $40 fee for that service.