Do I need a learner’s permit in Texas to take a driving test if I am 18 or older?

A lot of people, 18 years of age and older, ask if they need a Texas learner’s permit before they can get a driver’s license in Texas.

Actually, that’s kind of a tricky question because of terminology. In Texas, at the age of 18, a Texas learner’s permit expires. However, this does not mean that a person 18 or older does not need to have a learner’s license to drive.

At 18 and older (including all ages over 18) the permit is now referred to as a Class C, B-Restricted license. Basically, it is a learner’s permit for adults.

If you want to practice driving legally or take a driving test, all persons 18 or older must have a valid (unexpired) Texas Class C, B-Restricted Drivers License.

Class C refers to the weight class of the vehicle you are driving and a B-restriction means you must have a licensed driver in the front seat area with you at all times when you drive (hence a learner’s permit).

A Class C, B-Restricted driver’s license in Texas allows you to drive non-commercial vehicles under 26,001 pounds and tow trailers under 10,000 pounds.

Steps to getting a driver’s license in Texas for persons 18 and older:

  1. Gather Required Documents:

    • Proof of identity (e.g., valid U.S. passport, birth certificate)
    • Social Security Number (SSN) or proof of ineligibility
    • Proof of Texas residency (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement)
    • Proof of lawful presence in the U.S. (if applicable)
    • Proof of completion of a teen driver education course (if under 25)
    • OR completion of Adult Driver Education (ADE) course (18-24 years old) You can learn how to take our Adult 6-Hour Driver Education Class by clicking here.

  2. Apply for a B-Restricted License:

    • Visit your local DPS office.
    • Submit the required documents.
    • Pass a vision test.
    • Take the knowledge test to obtain a license. This test assesses your understanding of road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices (We include this in our Adult Class as part of the course).

  3. Practice Driving:

    • With your B-Restricted license, you are allowed to practice driving while accompanied by a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old and has at least one year of driving experience. They must sit in the front seat next to you.

  4. Complete Required Training:

    • If you are 18-24 years old, complete a 6-hour Adult Driver Education (ADE) course.
    • The ADE course covers important traffic laws, driving skills, and the dangers of distracted driving.

  5. Schedule the Driving Test:

    • Once you have practiced driving and feel confident, schedule the driving test. Be sure to bring your learner license, completion certificate for ADE, and other required documents. You can schedule a road test here.

  6. Pass the Driving Test:

    • During the driving test, you’ll demonstrate your ability to operate a vehicle safely and follow traffic rules. The examiner will assess your skills in tasks such as turning, stopping, parking, and merging.
    • Click Here for a tutorial

  7. Receive Your Class C License:

    • If you pass the driving test, you need another appointment at the DPS office to process the paperwork to receive a Class C driver’s license. This license allows you to drive non-commercial vehicles under 26,001 pounds and tow trailers under 10,000 pounds.

Remember, the steps and requirements may change, so it’s crucial to check the official Texas DPS website or contact a local DPS office for the most current and accurate information regarding the process of obtaining a Class C, B-Restricted driver’s license in Texas.