Steps necessary for a teen in Texas to get a driver’s license
In Texas, obtaining a driver’s license as a teenager involves several steps, and enrolling in a driver education program like Drive Smart can be beneficial. Here are the steps necessary for a teen in Texas to get a driver’s license, along with how a driver education school like Drive Smart can assist:
Step 1: Learner License (Instruction Permit)
- Eligibility: The teen must be at least 15 years old to apply for a learner license in Texas.
- Enroll in a Driver Education Program: Consider enrolling in a Texas-approved driver education program like Drive Smart. This program provides both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training, which is essential for learning the rules of the road and safe driving practices.
- Complete Classroom Instruction: Attend the classroom instruction sessions provided by the driver education school. The student must complete 6 hours of the classroom to get a learner’s license, but they must complete all 32 required classroom hours and 14 hours of behind-the-wheel training at the school (or with the parent if parent taught) to get a driver’s license. These sessions cover topics such as traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving techniques.
- Obtain a Learner License: After completing the 6 hours of classroom instruction and passing the knowledge test, you can apply for a learner license at your local Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. You will need to bring the necessary documents, including proof of identity, Social Security number, proof of residency, and proof of completion of a driver education program.
- Practice Driving: With a learner license, the teen can practice driving under the supervision of a licensed adult (typically a parent or guardian). There may be restrictions on the hours during which they can drive and the number of passengers they can carry.
Step 2: Provisional License
- Complete 32 hours of classroom and 14 hours of Behind-the-Wheel Training: Continue your behind-the-wheel training with a certified instructor from a driver education program, like Drive Smart. This practical training is crucial for developing safe driving skills.
- Hold the Learner License for Six Months: Texas requires teen drivers to hold a learner license for at least six months and be at least 16 years old before applying for a provisional license. The student must also complete a 30-hour log of driving hours that are to be done with a parent in addition to the 14 hours of in-car training they receive at the driving school. Pass the Driving Skills Test: Schedule and pass the driving skills test administered by the Texas DPS. The driver education program should help you prepare for this test.
- Apply for a Provisional License: Once you’ve met the above requirements, you can apply for a provisional license. This license allows you to drive without supervision but still comes with certain restrictions, such as curfew hours and passenger limits.
Step 3: Full Driver’s License
- Hold the Provisional License: Texas teens must hold a provisional license until they turn 18. During this time, they must avoid traffic violations and complete any required driver improvement programs.
- Apply for a Full Driver’s License: After successfully holding the provisional license and meeting all requirements, you can apply for a full, unrestricted driver’s license.
A driver education school like Drive Smart can help by providing the required classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training, preparing teens for the knowledge and driving skills tests, and ensuring that they learn safe driving practices. Additionally, these schools often offer convenient scheduling options and experienced instructors who can guide teens through the process of becoming responsible and skilled drivers in Texas. Remember to check with the Texas DPS for the most up-to-date information and specific requirements related to driver’s licensing for teenagers in Texas.