Enroll in an Easy Online Texas Drivers Ed Course

Written by Staff Writer

If you're a Lone Star State resident under age 25 and want to get a state driving license, then a driver education course is an absolute must. Luckily, it's easy to sign up for an online program. Whether you're a teen eager to get a learner permit or an adult applying for the first time, finding the right program is very simple.

In today's connected world, tasks that once had to be completed in person can now be handled virtually. This article highlights the options and requirements for those who wish to easily complete a training program approved by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).

Teen Driver Education Requirements

All teens must endure two licensing phases known as the Graduated Driver License Program.

Learner Permit

The first phase includes several steps. You will need to gather lots of documents. But every aspiring motorist goes through this — it's worth the hassle. If you're under 18, one of the first requirements is completing an approved education course.

Although you can begin the classroom phase at age 14, you can't apply for a permit until you're at least 15.

Typically, these are the three types of education options to choose from:

  1. A traditional in-person class offered by a certified training school
  2. Online training
  3. A program offered in a public school

A learner permit, also known as an instruction permit, allows a student to legally practice driving when accompanied by a licensed adult. This mentor must be 21 or older with at least one year of driving experience, must be seated beside the student and can't be intoxicated, asleep or engaging in any distractions that prevent them from focusing on the road.

The program includes 32 hours of classroom instruction and 44 hours of supervised driving practice. This card will indicate "Learner License" on the front and expires on the minor's 18th birthday. Applicants must:

  1. Be at least 15 but no more than 18 years of age
  2. Complete the classroom section of a TDLR-approved education program, vision test and knowledge exam
  3. Meet all other requirements for a first-time original applicant

Once you complete a TDLR-approved driving course, you'll present your Texas Driver Education Certificate (DE-964) at the Department of Public Safety (DPS) office when you take your vision test. The written exam may be taken during training or at the DPS.

Provisional License

This is the transition for motorists aged 16-17 between a learner permit and a full license. This intermediate period allows teens to drive without adult supervision but with some restrictions.

To obtain one, you must have held your valid card for at least six months unless you've already reached the age of 18. You must also have completed the Impact Texas Teen Drivers (ITTD) program no more than 90 days prior to taking your skills test. ITTD is a free, two-hour informational video that shows the dangers of distracted driving.

Online Drivers Ed Options

Now that you're familiar with the basic steps, you'll need to decide on a program that best meets your needs. These days, many ordinary tasks can be completed virtually rather than in person. That's certainly true about learning to operate a motor vehicle in the Lone Star State. Yes, there are virtual options: self-taught or parent-taught drivers ed (PTDE).

PTDE

A parent-taught course provides everything you need to earn a learner permit without stepping into a classroom. With the help of a parent or guardian, you'll complete your state-required training and learn at your own pace how to operate a vehicle safely and effectively.

This program typically includes 32 hours of instructional content and 44 hours of behind-the-wheel training with your parent. PTDE also includes the Highway Sign and Traffic Law exam, which you must pass.

Self-Taught

If you're between the ages of 14-17, this class allows you to complete state-required training on your own schedule. You can train at your own pace using any device. That means no classroom sessions to attend and no traveling to an office to take exams.

This self-taught system covers driving laws, readiness and risk reduction. Completing the 32 hours of instruction and the included exam will satisfy state training requirements.

After you complete the class and pass your exams, you will receive a DE-964 certificate by mail. You must bring this certificate with you when you visit a DPS office to apply for your learner's permit.

Adult Requirements

In The Lone Star State, new motorists between 18-25 must pass a six-hour adult drivers education course. Easy options are readily available, but your choice must be TDLR-approved. The six hours of lessons should cover topics like traffic control devices, understanding the right of way, managing risks and the dangers of driving under the influence.

If you are over 18 and have never possessed a license, you must complete six hours of instruction and the free Impact Texas Adult Drivers (ITAD) program before applying. You also must pass a road test and knowledge test.

Adult Drivers Education

This class takes at least six hours to complete and is required for all new motorists in the state between 18-25. Each lesson module has a timer, and you may not advance to the next section until you have met the minimum time requirement.

Modules include:

  • Your License to Drive
  • Right of Way
  • Traffic Control Devices
  • Controlling Traffic Flow
  • Alcohol and Other Drugs
  • Cooperating with Other Roadway Users
  • Managing Risk

Each module ends with a two-question quiz. You have an unlimited number of attempts to pass each quiz. At the end of the program, you will have 180 minutes to pass a 30-question final exam.

You must score at least 70% to pass, and you have three attempts to succeed. If you do not pass in three tries, you must re-register and start over.

Further Steps

No matter which license you need, the first step — and an absolute must — is choosing and passing a driving education course. Signing up for an online option is the most convenient and hassle-free way.

Once you've crossed TDLR-compliant education off your list, you'll move on to the actual application process. This includes providing personal identification documents, paying fees and, depending on your age, completing either the ITAD or ITTD program.

Ready to get started? SafeMotorist makes it easier than ever to sign up and begin training, whether you choose Texas Parent-Taught, Texas Self-Taught or Texas Adult. The next step on your journey is just a click away!