Updated for 2026

Texas TxDPS (Texas Department of Public Safety)

Comprehensive study guide for the 2026 driver's knowledge exam. Everything you need to know about laws, fees, and requirements.

Total Questions

Passing Score

Standard Fee

$33

Testing System

computerized touchscreen

Critical Failure Factors

The most common reason for failing the Texas exam is confusing the specific 'Right-of-Way' rules at uncontrolled intersections and T-intersections, as well as underestimating the severity of penalties for DUI/DWI offenses.

Legal Statutes & Driving Codes

Texas traffic laws, governed by the Texas Transportation Code, place a heavy emphasis on 'Right-of-Way' protocols, which differ slightly from other states and are frequently tested. At an uncontrolled intersection (one without signs or signals), drivers must yield to any vehicle that has entered the intersection on their right. Uniquely, at a 'T-intersection,' drivers on the street that ends must yield the right-of-way to vehicles on the through street. Additionally, drivers on an unpaved road must yield to vehicles on a paved road, and those exiting a private driveway must yield to all traffic on the public street. The 'Move Over or Slow Down' law is rigorously enforced; drivers approaching stationary emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or TxDOT vehicles with flashing lights must move out of the lane closest to the vehicle or slow down to 20 mph below the posted speed limit (or 5 mph if the limit is 25 mph or less). Texas has a strict ban on texting while driving for all drivers, and drivers under 18 are prohibited from using cell phones entirely, even with hands-free devices, except in emergencies. Regarding alcohol, the legal BAC limit is 0.08%, but Texas enforces an 'Implied Consent' law. Refusing a breath or blood test results in an automatic driver license suspension for 180 days. For minors (under 21), there is a Zero Tolerance policy where any detectable amount of alcohol leads to license suspension. The state also enforces the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program (Phase 1 and Phase 2). Drivers with a provisional license (Phase 2, under 18) cannot drive between midnight and 5:00 AM, cannot have more than one passenger under 21 who is not a family member, and must hold this license for at least six months violation-free before graduating to a full license. Furthermore, failing to stop for a school bus with flashing red lights carries a substantial fine of up to $1,250 for a first offense.

Statistical Realities

Texas is a state of extremes when it comes to driving conditions and requirements, making its test unique compared to the rest of the country. One of the most critical environmental facts to remember for the test is the 'Turn Around Don't Drown' campaign. Flash flooding is the number one weather-related killer in Texas, and drivers are explicitly taught never to drive through flooded roadways, as just two feet of water can float most vehicles. Texas also boasts the highest speed limit in the United States; State Highway 130 has sections with a legal limit of 85 mph. However, drivers must remember that speed limits are set for ideal conditions, and driving at the limit during heavy rain is considered dangerous and illegal. A unique requirement in Texas is for adults between the ages of 18 and 24: unlike many states where adult education is optional, Texas requires these applicants to complete a 6-hour adult driver education course before applying for a license. Additionally, all applicants, regardless of age, must complete the 'Impact Texas Drivers' (ITD) program, a specific video course focused on the dangers of distracted driving, before taking the practical road test. The famous slogan 'Don't mess with Texas' actually originated as a TxDOT campaign against littering; throwing trash from a vehicle can result in a fine of up to $500. Insurance is mandatory, and Texas requires specific minimum coverage limits often referred to as '30/60/25' ($30,000 for injury per person, $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage). Finally, due to the state's vast rural areas, collisions with livestock (cattle) and wildlife (deer) are common, and the manual specifically advises on scanning for eyeshine at night on Farm-to-Market (FM) roads.