If you're wondering whether your DE-964 driver education certificate has expired, the short answer is: no, it hasn't. DE-964 certificates issued in Texas do not expire. But there is an important nuance involving your written test score that catches many families off guard.
The Two Types of DE-964 Certificates
During your driver education course, you'll receive two separate DE-964 certificates. Each serves a different purpose at the DPS.
1. Learner License Certificate (DE-964E)
This certificate is marked “FOR LEARNER LICENSE ONLY” and is issued after you complete the first 6 hours of classroom instruction and pass the written knowledge test. You take it to the DPS to get your learner permit.
- Certificate expires: Never
- Written test score expires: 2 years from the date you passed
2. Driver License Certificate (DE-964)
This certificate is marked “FOR DRIVER LICENSE ONLY” and is issued after you complete all 24 hours of classroom instruction. You take it to the DPS when applying for your provisional license.
- Certificate expires: Never
For parent-taught students, these are labeled PTDE-964 instead of DE-964, but they carry the same legal value. DPS accepts both equally.
The 2-Year Written Test Score Rule
This is where the confusion comes in. While your DE-964E certificate itself never expires, the written test score printed on it is only valid for 2 years. If more than 2 years pass between passing your written test and visiting the DPS for your learner permit, you will need to retake the written knowledge test at the DPS.
The certificate is still valid — you just need a fresh test score. The DPS test covers the same traffic laws and road rules from your driver education course, so studying your course material is good preparation.
Don't Confuse DE-964 with ITTD
The ITTD (Impact Texas Teen Drivers) certificate is a completely separate document. It's a free 2-hour online course required before your road test. Unlike the DE-964, the ITTD certificate expires after just 90 days.
This is why we recommend waiting to complete the ITTD course until 1–2 weeks before your road test appointment. If you complete it too early and the 90 days pass, you'll need to take it again.
Expiration Quick Reference
| Document | Expires? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| DE-964E (Learner Certificate) | No | Valid indefinitely |
| Written test score (on DE-964E) | Yes | 2 years from test date |
| DE-964 (Completion Certificate) | No | Valid indefinitely |
| ITTD Certificate | Yes | 90 days from completion |
Printing Your Certificate
One more thing to know before heading to the DPS: if your DE-964 certificate has a green background, it must be printed in color. DPS will reject a black-and-white printout of the green template. Newer black-and-white certificates can be printed in B&W without issue.
This is the most common reason families get turned away at the DPS — don't let it happen to you.
Need a Copy of Your Certificate?
If you've lost your DE-964 certificate, you can download a fresh copy anytime from your ParentTaught.com account. Log in and go to the certificates section to print a new color copy.
For the complete guide to DE-964 certificates including detailed FAQ, see our full DE-964 certificate guide.
Starting Your Course?
Our state-approved PTDE course includes both DE-964 certificates — issued automatically when you reach each milestone.
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