What to Bring to a Third Party Road Test in Texas – Complete Checklist
Showing up unprepared is one of the fastest ways to fail or reschedule your third-party road test. DPS-approved providers are strict about requirements — missing one item can cancel your appointment and cost you time and money.
Here’s the exact checklist every Texas driver needs for a smooth third-party road test.
What to Bring to Your Driver’s Test in Texas (DPS or Third-Party)
Quick answer: Whether you test at a DPS office or with a DPS-authorized third-party tester, bring your learner license, the driver education and Impact Texas certificates for your age, and a registered, insured vehicle in safe working order (unless your tester provides one). Teens also need a current VOE from school.
What to bring, by age
- Ages 16–17: learner license held at least 6 months, DE-964 or PTDE-964 drivers ed certificate, ITTD certificate dated within 90 days, a Verification of Enrollment (VOE) form from your school, and a parent or guardian if your tester requires one.
- Ages 18–24: learner license or completed DL application, ADE-1317 adult drivers ed certificate, and ITAD certificate dated within 90 days.
- Ages 25 and older: learner license or completed DL application. No drivers ed course is required.
What the test vehicle needs
- Current registration (paper buyer plates are OK; dealer plates are not)
- Proof of insurance for that vehicle. You don’t have to be named on the policy, but you can’t be listed as an excluded driver.
- Working brake lights, turn signals, horn, seat belts and mirrors, and safe tires
No car? Many third-party testers will let you use theirs for a small fee. See what to do if you don’t have a car for your driving test.
Must-Bring Documents
- Valid Texas Learner Permit – Must be current and in your name
- Proof of Driver Education Completion – PTDE certificate (DE-964), adult course certificate, or equivalent
- ITAD / ITTD Certificate – Required for ages 18–24
- Proof of Insurance – Current insurance card for the test vehicle
- Vehicle Registration – Current registration for the test vehicle
- Photo ID – Driver license, passport, or state ID
Vehicle Requirements – What the Test Car Must Have
- Valid Texas license plates (or temporary tags)
- Current registration and insurance
- Working seatbelts for driver and examiner
- Functional horn, brake lights, turn signals, headlights, and taillights
- Tires with adequate tread (no bald spots)
- Windshield free of major cracks that obstruct vision
- Rearview and side mirrors properly adjusted and intact
- Doors that open and close properly
Pro Tip: Many third-party providers offer a rental test vehicle for $15–$30 if yours doesn’t qualify.
Optional but Recommended Items
- Water bottle (you may be nervous and thirsty)
- Glasses or contacts if you need them for driving
- Payment method — most accept card, some prefer cash
- Proof of address (sometimes requested)
- Practice log or driving hours sheet (helpful for instructors)
What NOT to Bring or Do
- No passengers in the car during the test (only you and the examiner)
- No pets or distractions in the vehicle
- Do not bring food or drinks that could spill
- Cell phone must be silenced and out of reach during the test
Third-Party Road Test Checklist Summary
| Category | Items Needed |
|---|---|
| Documents | Learner permit, education certificate, insurance, registration, ID |
| Vehicle | Working lights/horn, seatbelts, tires, clean windshield |
| Personal | Glasses if needed, payment, calm mindset |
Step-by-Step: Day of Your Third-Party Road Test
- Arrive 10–15 minutes early
- Review all documents with the instructor
- Vehicle inspection (examiner checks lights, signals, etc.)
- Take the 15–20 minute driving skills test
- Receive immediate feedback and results
- Electronic submission to DPS (in most cases)
Pro Tip
Double-check requirements with your specific provider — rules can vary slightly. Use the DPS Approved search tool to find providers and confirm their exact checklist.
Ready for Your Third-Party Road Test?
Come prepared and increase your chances of passing the first time. Book with a trusted DPS-approved provider today.
Find a Third-Party Road Test Provider Near You →Need help preparing? Contact DPS Approved
Related Articles
- Fastest Road Test in Allen TX
- Retake Road Test with Third Party in Texas
- Parent Taught Driver Ed Road Test in Texas
- New Resident Road Test with Third Party in Texas
- Adult Road Test with Third Party in DFW
Driver’s Test in Texas: FAQs
What do I need for my driver’s test in Texas?
Your learner license (or a completed license application), the driver education and Impact Texas certificates required for your age, and a registered, insured vehicle in safe working order. Teens under 18 also need a current VOE form from school.
What do I need to bring to my driver’s test if I’m over 18?
Ages 18–24 bring an ADE-1317 adult drivers ed certificate and an ITAD certificate dated within 90 days. Ages 25 and up need no course certificate. Everyone brings a learner license or license application and a test-ready vehicle with proof of insurance.
Do I need a VOE for my driving test?
Yes, if you are under 18 and don’t have a high school diploma or GED. The VOE is valid for 30 days, or 90 days if issued June through August.
Can I take the driving test in someone else’s car?
Yes. The car must be registered and insured, and you can’t be listed as an excluded driver on the policy. You don’t have to be named on the policy.
Is what to bring different for a third-party road test?
No. Third-party testers give the same official DPS skills test, so you bring the same documents. Some testers also offer a vehicle for an added fee.