A Texas Hardship License, formally known as a Minor’s Restricted Driver License (MRDL), allows certain teens to obtain a license earlier than usual due to specific hardship situations. Here’s an overview:
Who is Eligible for a Hardship License?
To be considered for a hardship license, the applicant must:
- Be at least 15 years old but under 18.
- Have completed an approved driver education course (like ParentTaught.com).
- Have passed the vision test, knowledge test (written exam), and the driving test.
- Meet all other standard requirements for a provisional license (e.g., VOE, ITTD program if applicable at the time of application for full privileges).
AND prove one of the following hardship conditions to the DPS:
- Unusual Economic Hardship: An unusual economic hardship exists for the family of the applicant.
- Family Illness/Disability: Sickness, illness, or disability of a member of the applicant’s family requires the teen to drive.
- Death-Related Emergency: A death in the applicant’s family creates an emergency need for driving.
- Vocational Education Program: The applicant is enrolled in a vocational education program and requires a driver license to participate.
How to Apply
If your teen meets the driver education and testing requirements and qualifies under one of the hardship conditions:
- You will need to complete the Application for Minor’s Restricted Driver License (DL-77). This form details the specific hardship and requires supporting documentation (e.g., physician’s statement for illness, school certification for vocational program).
- Gather all other standard documents required for a provisional license (DE-964, VOE, proof of identity, residency, etc.).
- Schedule an appointment and apply in person at a DPS office. A parent or legal guardian must accompany the teen.
The DPS will review the application and supporting evidence to determine if a hardship license will be granted. If approved, the license will likely have restrictions (e.g., times of day, routes, purpose of driving).
Completing a driver education course like ParentTaught.com is still a prerequisite for a hardship license. The hardship license essentially allows a teen to get their restricted license at 15 instead of waiting until 16 for a standard provisional license, provided they meet the strict hardship criteria.