Texas Driving Test Study Guide 2026: DPS Knowledge Test Prep

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) administers the written knowledge test for driver licences. You'll need to pass before taking the driving skills test.

Texas Knowledge Test Format

- 30 questions for Class C (standard passenger vehicle) - Must answer 21 correctly (70%) to pass - Topics: traffic laws, road signs, safe driving, alcohol effects - Computer-based at DPS licence offices - Available in English and Spanish

Texas-Specific Rules

Speed Limits: 70 mph on most rural interstate highways. 75 or 80 mph on some West Texas interstates. 60 mph on rural roads. 30 mph in urban areas unless posted otherwise.

Move Over Law: Must change lanes or slow down when approaching a stationary emergency vehicle, tow truck, or TxDOT vehicle with flashing lights. Fine: $200-$1,000 for first offense.

Texting While Driving: Banned statewide. First offense: $25-$99 fine. If crash results: $100-$200. Minors: zero tolerance for any handheld use.

Alcohol: BAC limit 0.08% for adults. Commercial drivers: 0.04%. Drivers under 21: 0.00% — zero tolerance. DWI is a Class B misdemeanor; third offense is a felony.

Right-of-Way Rules

At a four-way stop: 1. First to arrive goes first 2. Tie: the driver to the right goes first 3. Straight traffic goes before turning traffic in a tie

At T-intersections: through traffic has right-of-way over traffic entering from the dead-end street.

Roundabouts: yield to traffic already in the circle. Enter when there's a gap.

Graduated Licence (Teens)

Texas has a three-stage system: - Learner's Licence (Level 1): Hold for minimum 6 months with 30 hours supervised driving (10 night hours) - Provisional Licence (Level 2): No driving midnight–5 AM for first year; no more than one passenger under 21 for first year - Full Licence (Level 3): At 18

Study Tips

Focus on the Texas Driver Handbook, available free at DPS.Texas.gov. Pay particular attention to the Move Over Law (frequently tested), BAC limits for different driver categories, and school zone speed limits.