Texas driving questions, answered
What a new driver in Texas asks, answered in two or three sentences from Texas’s own manual, code, court schedule or licensing pages, and kept only after every figure in it was found in the source it cites. How the answers are made
What happens if I get pulled over and I don't have my license on me?
Under Texas law, you can get a ticket, and the court sets a fine of up to $200. If you bring your valid license to court, the charge can be dropped, though the court may charge a fee of up to $10.
Sources: Tex. Transp. Code § 521.025 · as of 8 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
What happens if I get caught texting while driving?
Under Texas law, an officer can ticket you for reading, writing or sending a message while driving, unless you're stopped. A first offense means a fine the court sets, from $25 to $99. Using a hands-free device, GPS, or reporting an emergency is a defense.
Sources: Texas driver’s manual p. 54 · Tex. Transp. Code § 545.4251 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
What happens if I'm driving past my curfew with a provisional license?
With a provisional license, you can't drive between midnight and 5:00 a.m. unless it's for work, a school activity, or a medical emergency.
Sources: Texas driver’s manual p. 3 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
How many friends can I have in the car when I first get my license?
With your first license, called a provisional license, you can carry only 1 passenger under 21 who isn't family. Family members don't count toward that limit.
Sources: Texas driver’s manual p. 3 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
If I fail my driving test, how soon can I take it again?
If you fail the drive test, your application stays open at the license office for 90 days. After 90 days or 3 failed tests, you need a new application and a new fee.
Sources: Texas Department of Public Safety — Driver Safety Checklist (DL-60) · as of 11 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
How long do I have to hold my permit before I can take the road test?
If you're under 18, you have to hold your learner license for at least 6 months before you can get your provisional license.
Sources: Texas driver’s manual p. 2 · Texas Department of Public Safety — Texas Provisional License as a Teen · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
What car insurance do I need to drive?
You must carry at least the minimum liability insurance. That's $30,000 for one person hurt, $60,000 for two or more, $25,000 for property damage.
Sources: Texas driver’s manual p. 18 · Texas Department of Public Safety — Financial Responsibility Insurance Certificate (SR-22) · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 14 October 2026.
What happens if I crash my parents' car?
You must give your name and address, the car's registration number and your insurer's name to anyone hurt or with a car involved. If someone is hurt, you must help them, including getting them to a doctor or hospital if they need it or ask. You should also swap phone numbers, plate numbers, license and insurance details with the other drivers.
Sources: Texas driver’s manual p. 59 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
How far from a fire hydrant do I have to park?
You can't park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant.
Sources: Texas driver’s manual p. 42 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
Can I use my phone at a red light?
Yes, for texting: Texas law bans reading, writing or sending messages while you drive, unless your vehicle is stopped.
Sources: Tex. Transp. Code § 545.4251 · as of 8 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
How much is the fine for speeding in a school zone?
The speed on a school zone sign is the limit you must follow whenever its yellow light is flashing.
Sources: Texas driver’s manual p. 31 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
What happens if I get caught driving alone on my permit?
Your learner license only lets you drive with a licensed driver beside you. That person must be 21 or older with at least 1 year of driving experience.
Sources: Texas driver’s manual p. 1 · Tex. Transp. Code § 521.222 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 14 October 2026.
Any question about Texas driving law can be asked in the box, not only these: each answer comes from Texas’s own manual or code, cited. Ask a question