How to Skip the Texas DPS Written Test

• Texas allows you to skip the DPS written test by completing a TDLR-approved drivers ed course whose final exam is state-approved as a waiver.
• This applies to adults 18 to 24 (required) and adults 25+ who choose to take the course voluntarily.
• Teens 14 to 17 can also skip the DPS written test through their drivers ed course's final exam, whether parent-taught or instructor-led.

Why People Want to Skip the DPS Written Test

The Texas DPS written test is 30 multiple-choice questions covering road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices, with a 70% passing threshold (21 of 30 correct). The pass rate is lower than people expect, partly because the questions pull from the full Texas Drivers Handbook (which is over 80 pages) and partly because DPS appointment stress doesn't help.

If you fail, you can retake the test, but the process slows you down. After three failed attempts, you have to file a brand-new application and pay another fee. Skipping the written test legitimately is faster and removes a major point of failure. For the broader licensing process, our 6-step guide to getting your Texas license at 18 walks through every requirement.

Who Qualifies to Skip the Written Test in Texas?

The waiver applies to anyone whose drivers ed final exam has been TDLR-approved as a substitute for the DPS knowledge test. That covers three groups:

Anyone over 18 with a valid out-of-state license transferring to Texas may also skip the written test by reciprocity. Texas has full reciprocity agreements with all other U.S. states and territories, plus Canada, France, South Korea, and Germany. Drivers from countries without a reciprocity agreement still need to take both tests.

Step 1: Pick a TDLR-Approved Course With a Test Waiver

Not every Texas drivers ed course's final exam waives the DPS written test. To qualify, the course must be approved by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation AND its final exam must be specifically state-authorized as a knowledge test substitute. Reputable providers will say so on the course page. If a course doesn't mention the waiver, assume the answer is no and ask before enrolling.

Step 2: Complete the Course and Pass the Final Exam

The course is self-paced and online. Adults complete 6 hours of instruction; teens complete 32 hours. At the end, you'll take a state-approved final exam. Your provider records your passing score electronically with the TDLR.

You'll receive a completion certificate, ADE-1317 for adults or DE-964 for teens, that includes the written test waiver. Print it out (or save the digital copy) for your DPS appointment.

For more detail on how the path works for adults, our guide to Texas license requirements for 18-year-olds covers each step. For the document checklist, our Texas DPS documents guide has every required item.

Step 3: Show Up at the DPS for the Road Test Only

Schedule your DPS appointment at the official Texas DPS scheduler. Bring:

• Your drivers ed completion certificate (ADE-1317 or DE-964)
• Proof of identity, U.S. citizenship, and Social Security number
• Two proofs of Texas residency
• Proof of auto insurance and vehicle registration for the test vehicle
• Application fee

The DPS examiner will verify your certificate and skip the written test entirely. You'll go directly to the vision test and on-road skills test. If you pass, you'll leave with a temporary license, and your permanent card arrives by mail within a few weeks.