What You Need to Bring to the Austin DPS for Your Road Test

TL;DR

• You’ll need proof of identity, residency, and legal presence.

• A valid learner’s permit or certificate of completion is required.

• Bring your Impact Texas Driver (ITD) certificate.

• Make sure your vehicle is properly registered, inspected, and insured.

• Travis Driving School can help you prepare with behind-the-wheel training and mock road tests.

Getting ready for your road test in Austin is both exciting and nerve-wracking. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is strict about documentation, so being unprepared can result in delays or rescheduling. At Travis Driving School, we know how important this step is for new drivers, which is why we’ve put together a detailed guide on exactly what to bring to the Austin DPS for your driving test.

Proof of Identity and Residency

Before anything else, DPS requires documents to confirm who you are and where you live.

Accepted Identification Documents

• Original birth certificate or passport

• Social Security card

• Proof of lawful presence (for non-citizens)

Proof of Residency in Texas

You’ll also need two documents showing your Texas address, such as:

• A utility bill

• Lease or mortgage statement

• Bank statement

➡️ Tip: Make sure your name and current Austin address appear clearly. Travis Driving School reminds students to double-check their paperwork before test day to avoid surprises.

Learner’s Permit or Course Completion Certificates

If you’re a teen, DPS will require your learner’s permit along with certificates proving you completed the proper training.

Teen Drivers

• Learner’s permit (must be valid and unexpired)

• Certificate of completion from a Texas-approved driver education course

• Verification of Enrollment (VOE) from your school (if under 18)

Adult Drivers

• Texas learner’s permit or restricted license

• Certificate of completion from a state-approved 6-hour adult driver education course

At Travis Driving School, we help both teens and adults meet these requirements through comprehensive classroom and behind-the-wheel training.

The Impact Texas Drivers (ITD) Certificate

Texas law requires every driver license applicant to complete the Impact Texas Drivers program.

Steps to Complete ITD

1. Watch the ITD video modules (Teen or Adult version depending on your age).

2. Download and print your certificate upon completion.

3. Bring the certificate to your DPS appointment.

⚠️ Important: ITD certificates expire after 90 days, so plan your road test accordingly. Travis Driving School always advises students to time their ITD completion close to their exam date.

Vehicle Requirements for the Road Test

DPS requires you to provide your own vehicle for the exam, and it must meet state standards.

Vehicle Checklist

• Valid registration sticker

• Proof of insurance

• Valid inspection sticker

• Working lights, brakes, signals, windshield wipers, and horn

• No warning lights on dashboard (such as “Check Engine”)

If you don’t have access to a vehicle that meets these standards, Travis Driving School offers the option to use one of our cars for your road test.

Payment and Appointment Confirmation

Don’t forget the basics—your DPS appointment and the required fee.

What You’ll Need

• DPS confirmation email or appointment slip

• Payment for license fees (cash, check, or card depending on location)

➡️ Tip: Arrive at least 15 minutes early to check in and avoid missing your time slot.

Preparing with Travis Driving School

Even with the right paperwork, the road test can feel intimidating. That’s why many Austin students choose Travis Driving School for:

• Practice road test simulations

• Defensive driving lessons

• Guidance on DPS requirements and paperwork

• Safe, DPS-compliant vehicles for the exam

With proper preparation and the right documents, you’ll feel more confident walking into the Austin DPS on test day.

Conclusion

Passing your road test is one of the most exciting milestones in life, but being unprepared with documents or vehicle requirements can cause setbacks. To recap, you’ll need:

• Proof of identity and Texas residency

• Learner’s permit and course completion certificates

• ITD certificate (within 90 days)

• A roadworthy, insured vehicle

• Your DPS appointment details and payment

At Travis Driving School, we’re here to make sure you’re not just prepared for the test, but also for a lifetime of safe driving. Book your lessons with us today and let’s get you across the finish line—your Texas driver’s license!