Updated March 8th, 2024
The most popular method of obtaining a license for Texas Teens ages 14-17 can be confusing for those completing it for the first time. This guide breaks down each step so you can understand the process. Our online course will also guide you though each step you need to take.
The first step is to ensure that both the instructor and the student are eligible. Click ‘View Details’ to read the requirements.
Estimated time to complete: 5 minutes
You’ll need an eligible instructor to help you learn to drive in real life.
If both you and your instructor are eligible, you can move on to Step 2!
The first step is to ensure that both the instructor and the student are eligible. Once you have read the requirements (Click ‘View Details’), you can proceed to Step 2.
Estimated time to complete: 5 minutes
You’ll need an eligible instructor to help you learn to drive in real life.
If both you and your instructor are eligible, you can move on to Step 2!
Purchase a State-Approved Parent Taught Drivers Ed Course. ParentTaught.com sells a course that is State-Approved.
Estimated time to complete: 5 minutes
Our course is self-paced and structured to accommodate your schedule. You can learn on the go with your phone, tablet, or computer.
The Parent Taught Drivers Ed Packet must be purchased from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). It costs $20 and is your way of telling the State of Texas who will be the student’s official instructor.
Estimated time to complete: 5 minutes
The Parent Taught Drivers Ed Packet is required to be purchased from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). This is a State of Texas requirement. But don’t worry; you can purchase the packet in under 5 minutes, completely online.
Complete Lesson 1 and the In-Course DPS Written Exam, and we’ll email you a Learner License Certificate.
Estimated time to complete: 6 Hours
After completing 6 classroom hours (Lesson 1), you’ll be able to complete the In-Course DPS Written Exam. We have practice tests to help you prepare, as well as unlimited retakes at no additional cost.
After completing the In-Course DPS Written Test, we’ll issue you a certificate. Take this certificate and a few other documents to the DPS, where you will receive your Learner’s Permit.
Estimated time to complete: 1 Hour
You’ll need to go to your local DPS office to get your learner license.
A learner license costs $16, and this fee is paid to the DPS, not ParentTaught.com. You can pay with a money order, cash, credit, or check.
Finish Lessons 2 through 12 inside the course. Our online course is structured as concurrent, so you can complete your driving hours (Step 7) at the same time.
Estimated time to complete: Varies
Complete the remaining 26 classroom hours, to meet the mandated 32 hours classroom instruction.
Finish your 44 driving hours.
Estimated time to complete: 44 Hours
With your designated instructor, you’ll need to complete the following:
You’ll log these hours in your driving log. You can use the Driving Manager course resource to assist you and your instructor.
With any licensed driver over the age of 21 (or your instructor), you’ll need to complete the following:
You’ll log these hours in your:
You may only complete two hours of Behind-the-Wheel instruction per day. So, completing your 44 hours will take a minimum of 22 days.
The Impact Texas Teen Drivers program (ITTD) is a free, two-hour video provided by the DPS that covers the dangers of distracted driving.
Estimated time to complete: 2 Hours
The Impact Texas Teen Drivers program (ITTD) is a free, 2-hour informational video that shares the dangers of distracted driving along with real-life stories of teens who have lost their lives. It is provided by the Texas DPS, not ParentTaught.com. You have 90 days from the date you successfully complete the program to pass the driving test. The course can be accessed from this link: https://impacttexasdrivers.dps.texas.gov/ITTD/.
You can get your Provisional Driver License once you’ve completed the above steps, and have had your Learner License for six months.
Estimated time to complete: 1 Hour
Make sure these steps are completed before you apply for your license:
If you meet the above requirements, schedule an appointment online.
To get your Provisional Driver License license, you’ll need to go to your local DPS office.
A Provisional Driver License costs $16, and this fee is paid to the DPS, not ParentTaught.com. You can pay with a money order, cash, credit, or check.
When you are ready to apply for a provisional driver license and have completed all the learner license requirements, you will need to visit a driver license office and provide additional documentation.
(Printed in Color)
You may complete the driving test requirements at the DL office or through a Third Party provider. Read about testing in other languages and driving test requirements.
Once your driver license has been issued, you will receive a temporary driver license. Before leaving the driver license office, review the printed information on your temporary driver license for accuracy. If any of the information is incorrect, notify the License and Permit Specialist. Your new card will arrive in the mail in approximately 2 – 3 weeks. To check the mailing status of your card, visit the DPS mailing status web page.
Click the mark complete button at the bottom of this page to finish the course!
We hope this breakdown helps clarify each party’s role in the Parent-Taught Driver Education journey. Remember, you’re not just teaching your teen to drive; you’re guiding them toward responsible and safe driving habits for life. Happy teaching!
If you’ve read anything about Texas Parent Taught Drivers Ed before, you’ll know there’s lots of jargon. But to keep things simple for now, here are a few key terms and concepts you should know.
PTDE:
ITTD:
Learner License:
Provisional License:
PTDE Program Guide Packet:
Written Test:
Behind-the-Wheel Test:
Learn more industry jargon in our PTDE Glossary.