Required Documents to Start Each Course

1. 6-Hour Adult Driver Education Course (Ages 18-24)

   • Proof of Identification: A valid government-issued ID (such as a Texas ID card or passport).
   • Social Security Number: Required if available.
   • Residency Proof: Documents such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement showing a Texas address.
   • Application for a Driver’s License: You may need to fill out this form to start the process at the Department of Public Safety (DPS) after course completion.

2. 32-Hour Parent-Taught Driver Education Course (Ages 14-17)

   • Texas Residency Proof: Such as a utility bill or other document showing a Texas address.
   • Parent Authorization: The parent or guardian must register as the course instructor and obtain approval from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).
   • Instruction Permit: After completing part of the course, teens may apply for a learner’s permit to practice driving with a parent or guardian.

3. Defensive Driving Course

   • Proof of Identification: A Texas driver’s license is typically needed to enroll.
   • Court Paperwork (if applicable): If the course is taken to dismiss a ticket, you’ll need court permission and paperwork showing that defensive driving is allowed to clear the ticket.
     

     o start any of these three driver’s education courses in Texas, certain documents and requirements must be met based on your age and the specific course. Here’s a breakdown of what is required for each course and the steps to get your license once the course is completed.
     Steps to Get Your License After Completing the Course

     1. Complete the Driver Education Course

        • Upon finishing the course, you’ll receive a completion certificate. For adult and teen courses, this certificate must be presented when you apply for a license at the DPS.

     2. Pass the Written Knowledge Test

        • If you haven’t already completed it within the course, you’ll need to take and pass the written test at a DPS office. The test covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.

     3. Obtain an Instruction Permit (Teens Only)

        • After passing the written test, teens (14-17) receive a learner’s permit. They must then complete a required number of driving hours with a parent or guardian before applying for a license.

     4. Pass the Road Skills Test

        • Schedule and pass a road test with a DPS examiner, demonstrating your practical driving skills. This test assesses your ability to safely operate a vehicle according to Texas road rules.

     5. Provide Required Documents for License Application

        • Proof of Identity: Valid ID or birth certificate.
        • Social Security Number: Document showing your SSN.
        • Residency Proof: A Texas address (utility bill, lease, etc.).
        • Course Completion Certificate: Showing you’ve completed the required driver education course.
        • Application Fee: Pay the necessary fee for your driver’s license.

     6. Receive Your Texas Driver’s License

        • Once you pass the road test and provide all required documents, you’ll receive your Texas driver’s license, allowing you to legally drive within the state.

     Each course prepares you for the licensing process in Texas and helps ensure that you’re a safe, knowledgeable driver.