The Quick Answer
Two Types of DE-964 Certificates
You will receive two separate certificates during your driver education course. Each one is used at a different stage of the licensing process.
1. Learner License Certificate (DE-964E)
The DE-964E is marked "FOR LEARNER LICENSE ONLY" and is issued after completing the first 6 hours of classroom instruction and passing the written knowledge test. You take this certificate to DPS to get your learner permit. For parent-taught students, the form is called PTDE-964 but has the same legal value as the commercial school DE-964.
- When issued: After 6 hours of classroom + passing the written test
- Used for: Getting your learner permit at DPS
- Certificate expires: Never
- Written test score expires: 2 years from test date
2. Driver License Certificate (DE-964)
The DE-964 is marked "FOR DRIVER LICENSE ONLY" and is issued after completing all 24 hours of classroom instruction. You take this certificate to DPS along with your other documents when applying for your provisional license.
- When issued: After completing all 24 classroom hours
- Used for: Getting your provisional license at DPS
- Certificate expires: Never
Printing Requirements
Expiration Summary
Here is a quick reference for what expires and what does not:
| 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 |
What If My Written Test Score Expired?
If more than 2 years have passed since you passed the written test, here is what happens:
- Your DE-964E certificate is still valid — the certificate itself does not expire.
- Retake the written test at DPS — you will need to take the knowledge test at a DPS office instead of using your course score.
- Same material — the DPS test covers the same traffic laws and road rules from your driver education course.
- Small fee applies — there is a fee for the DPS written test.
Best Practice: Don't Delay
The easiest way to avoid complications is to stay on schedule. Here are the key timelines to keep in mind:
- Get your permit within 2 years — after completing the first 6 hours and passing the written test, visit DPS before the 2-year test score expiration.
- Time your ITTD carefully — complete the ITTD course 1–2 weeks before your road test, since that certificate expires in 90 days.
- Keep copies safe — download and save copies of your certificates from your ParentTaught.com account as backup.
Need a Copy of Your Certificate?
If you have lost your DE-964 certificate or need a fresh copy, you can download it anytime from your ParentTaught.com account. Log in and go to the certificates section to print a new color copy.