Texas Requirements for New Driver's Licenses
All new drivers must comply with requirements set forth by their state in order to obtain a new driver's license. The Texas list of requirements for getting a new driver's license is generally straightforward. Having certain proofs of identification as well as passing several state-administered examinations are just a couple of the requirements for obtaining a new driver's license in Texas.
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Age Requirments
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No license will be issued to drivers under the age of 16 in Texas. At the age of 15, new drivers may receive an instructional permit that is valid only with a licensed driver over the age of 21 riding in the vehicle with them and an unrestricted driver's license at the age of 16---provided the educational guidelines as outlined in the next section are met in both instances. Otherwise, 18 years old or older is the required age for becoming a licensed driver in the state of Texas.
Training Requirmements
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For new drivers aged 18 years old or older, no state mandated training courses are required before progressing to the testing phase. However, new drivers who are 15 years old may apply for a "learner's permit" if they have completed a driving course of 32 hours. New drivers aged 16 to 17 must have held a valid driving permit for at least six months prior to applying for a new driver's license in Texas.
Required Proofs and Documentation
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All new driver's must provide the same basic documentation when applying for a new driver's license in Texas. The requirements are: proof of identity (such as a birth certificate), a Social Security card, a copy of the registration for the vehicle you will be using for the test (ownership is not a requirement) and a copy of the insurance card for that vehicle (being on the policy is not required). All of this documentation, in addition to any training certificates required, must be present at the time of the application and test for the new license.
Non-U.S. Citizen Requirements
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Requirements for Non-U.S. Citizens are the same as the aforementioned ones, but proof of their current immigration status is also required. Further, if their birth certificate is in an language other than English, a certified translated copy must also be provided.
Testing Requirements
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The testing requirements for obtaining a new driver's license in Texas are threefold: a vision test, a written exam and a driving test. The vision test is conducted on site and consists of reading a series of letters or numbers on a chart from a distance. The written test is comprised of a series of questions regarding Texas driving laws and safe driving practices. You must pass the written test to proceed to the driving test. The driving test is a road test in the company of a Texas Highway Patrol officer where you are graded on how well you follow the rules as well as verbal commands. These tests can be retaken as many times as needed if you don't pass them on the first try. However, failing the vision test may require you to wear corrective lenses as a stipulation on your license.
Required Fees
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Fees for new driver's licenses are payable upon the time of testing and are not refundable. As of August 2010, the current fees for applying for a new driver's license in Texas are: $6 for ages under 18, $25 for ages 18 and over and $9 for new drivers aged 85 and older.
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