Getting a Texas driver's license at 18 years old might be slightly easier than when you're 16, but there's still a lot you need to think about. The process requires showing proof of your driving skills and identity. You'll also need to pass a written exam and have a valid car registration. Here are the steps to take when aiming to obtain your Texas driver's license when you're 18.
1. Complete an Adult Driver's Education Course
Just because you're 18 doesn't mean you don't have to complete your driver's ed. It is a requirement in the state of Texas to complete this course all the way until you're 25! Just make sure you take your course from an accredited school like I Drive Safely. You'll need at least six hours of classes to satisfy this requirement.
Don't forget about the Impact Texas Young Drivers course, as well. This is a one-hour class you need to take from DPS that teaches you about the dangers of distracted driving.
2. Pass a Written Exam
The Texas written driver's exam consists of fundamental skills. Make sure you learn about parallel parking, safe lane changes, making turns like U-turns and three-point turns successfully, backing up safely, and more. You'll also want to memorize Texas state laws on obeying speed, encountering different road signs, and when to use traffic signals. Of course, if you pass your adult driver's ed class with I Drive Safely, this will satisfy the written exam requirement.
3. Prove Completion
Accredited driver's education courses will issue you a certificate/proof of program completion. Make sure you have this on you when you arrive for your written and road exams. The DPS won't allow you to take these exams without proof of your driver's education.
4. Pass an Eye Test
This is pretty self-explanatory. If you wear corrective lenses of any kind (glasses, contacts, etc.) you need to wear them when you arrive for your road test. There will be a notice on the back of your license noting if you need corrective lenses while driving. It's extremely important to make sure your license is accurate and that your vision isn't impaired while you're on the road.
5. Pass the Road Test
The road test is the most important part of getting your license. Examiners are looking for control and confidence. Make sure you know where tools are in your car, such as gear shifts, emergency breaks, blinkers, and steering. Most likely, the examiner will ask you to engage or identify these things at the start of your test. Always keep your hands at nine and three, keep your eyes on the road, and check your mirrors frequently during turns. Also, stay in your lane.
During the test, your driving instructor will make sure you're not exceeding the speed limit, following other vehicles too closely, or disobeying road signs and signals. If you follow the rules of the road and stay mindful of what you've learned in Texas driver's ed, you'll pass with flying colors!
6. Prove Your Identity
You must provide the proper paperwork to obtain your license after passing your exams both written and driving. Here are some ways you can do that:
Passport
Proof of Texas residency
Social Security card
Texas vehicle registration
Proof of insurance
Enjoy Your New Texas License
Congratulations! If you follow these steps, study hard, and make sure you're using valuable resources to get ahead, you'll have your license in no time.