The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has specific requirements for accepting DE-964 certificates. Understanding these requirements ensures your certificate will be accepted when you apply for your learner permit or driver's license.
DPS Certificate Requirements
For the DPS to accept your DE-964 certificate, it must:
- Be issued by a TDLR-approved and currently licensed driving school
- Include a valid TDLR school license number
- Contain your full legal name matching your identification documents
- Display your correct date of birth
- Show the course completion date
- Have a unique certificate number
- Include the school administrator's signature
- Be printed and presented in person
Printing Your Certificate
DE-964 certificates must be printed and brought to your DPS appointment:
- Printed copy from your home or office printer
- Official certificate on security paper (if mailed by school)
- Older green-background templates should be printed in color. Newer black-and-white templates can be printed in black and white.
Common Reasons for Certificate Rejection
The DPS may reject your certificate if:
- Name on certificate doesn't match your ID exactly (including middle names/initials)
- Date of birth is incorrect or doesn't match your ID
- TDLR school license number is missing or invalid
- School's TDLR license has been revoked or suspended
- Certificate appears altered or tampered with
- Certificate is illegible due to poor print quality
- Required signatures are missing
Verifying Your Certificate Before DPS Visit
To avoid problems at the DPS, verify these details before your appointment:
- Compare your name on the certificate to your birth certificate or ID
- Confirm your date of birth is accurate
- Check that the TDLR school license number is present
- Ensure the completion date is shown
- Verify the certificate number is included
- Confirm the administrator's signature is visible
- Test that your file opens and prints properly before your appointment
DPS Verification Process
When you present your DE-964 at the DPS:
- The examiner will review the certificate for completeness
- They may verify the TDLR school license number in their system
- They'll compare your information to your identification documents
- The certificate information will be entered into your DPS record
- You may be asked questions about your driver education course
What to Bring to Your DPS Appointment
Along with your DE-964 certificate, bring:
- Proof of identity (birth certificate, passport, or valid ID)
- Social Security card or verification letter
- Two proofs of Texas residency
- Proof of ITTD course completion (for provisional license appointment only)
- 30-Hour Behind-the-Wheel Practice Log (for provisional license appointment only)
- Parent or legal guardian must attend in person (if under 18)
- Payment for applicable fees
Important Note
DPS policies and requirements can vary slightly between offices and may change over time. If you have any concerns about your certificate's acceptance, call the specific DPS office where you plan to apply before your appointment. They can confirm whether your certificate meets current requirements and save you a wasted trip.