What to Expect from the Texas Driving Test

Preparing for the Texas driving test is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel a bit nerve-wracking. Knowing what to expect can go a long way in easing your nerves and setting you up for success.

This guide covers everything you need to know about the Texas driving test, from the pre-test vehicle inspection to the essential skills you'll need to demonstrate on the road. Below, we've outlined each step to give you a clear picture of what the process will look like on test day.

How the Test Works

The Texas driving test is conducted by a Department of Public Safety (DPS) License and Permit Specialist (specialist), who will sit in the passenger seat to assess your driving. They will guide you through specific tasks to evaluate essential skills such as vehicle control, observation, lane positioning and adherence to traffic rules.

At the end of the test, the specialist will inform you if you passed and discuss any areas where you may need improvement. If you need to retake the test, they'll outline the next steps to help you prepare.

Vehicle Inspection

Before you start the road test, the specialist will conduct a brief vehicle inspection to ensure your car meets safety standards. This inspection includes checking that all essential functions — such as lights, signals, brakes and windshield wipers — are working properly.

Be sure to bring a vehicle that's in good working condition, as any malfunctions or missing components could result in a delay or rescheduling of your test.

Taking the Road Test

Once your vehicle passes inspection, it's time to begin the road test. During this portion, your specialist will evaluate your driving skills as you complete specific tasks, such as making turns, observing speed limits and following traffic signals.

The specialist will make sure you handle each situation safely while adhering to Texas driving laws. This test assesses your driving readiness and lets you demonstrate your ability to react responsibly in various traffic conditions.

Evaluation Criteria

During the Texas driving test, the specialist will assess your skills based on four key areas:

Control: You'll need to demonstrate smooth and precise management of the vehicle. This includes accelerating, braking and steering while navigating turns, merges and parking. You'll also need to be responsive to various driving conditions.
Observation: The specialist will assess your awareness of your surroundings. This means monitoring traffic, anticipating hazards and reacting appropriately to keep yourself and others safe.
Positioning: Maintaining proper lane discipline is essential. You should stay centered in your lane and easily navigate various driving scenarios.
Signaling: Proper turn signal use is vital for communicating your intentions to other drivers. The specialist will assess your ability to signal at the right times.

In addition to the core skills of control, observation, positioning and signaling, you will also be evaluated on the following specific tasks:

Parallel parking: Executing parallel parking with precision, staying close to the curb without touching it.
Quick stop: Performing a controlled, smooth stop from around 20 mph without causing your tires to skid.
Backing up: Reversing in a straight line for approximately 15 feet while looking over your shoulder through the rear windshield.
Obeying traffic signs and signals: Coming to a full stop at stop signs and following all traffic signals.
Using the clutch: For manual transmission vehicles, engaging and releasing the clutch correctly when shifting gears, stopping or starting, and avoiding coasting.
Driving through intersections: Slowing down, looking both ways and staying in the proper lane when entering intersections.
Smooth turns and lane discipline: Making smooth, accurate turns and maintaining lane positioning.
Right-of-way: Observing and yielding the right-of-way when required to keep traffic moving safely.
Following distance and passing: Maintaining safe following distances, passing safely and staying in the appropriate lane.
Posture and hand position: Keeping hands on the steering wheel at all times without resting your elbow on the window.

Be aware that certain actions will automatically result in a test failure, including:

Breaking traffic laws: Any violation of traffic laws, such as running a red light, failing to stop at a stop sign or exceeding the speed limit, will result in an immediate failure.
Ignoring instructions: Refusing to follow the specialist's directions during the test can demonstrate a lack of readiness and may lead to an automatic failure.
Unsafe driving: Engaging in dangerous driving behaviors, such as aggressive maneuvers, reckless speeding or causing an accident, reflects poor judgment and safety awareness, leading to an instant failure.
Point accumulation: Accumulating more than 30 points in deductions during the test is grounds for failure. This can happen through a combination of errors, such as improper lane changes, inadequate signaling or lack of vehicle control.

Preparing for these tasks and demonstrating consistent, safe driving behavior can help you pass the test.

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Our course will help you prepare for the Texas driving test and equip you with the skills required to be a safe, responsible driver. Sign up now and take the first step toward earning your license!