Questions about Parent-Taught Drivers Ed in Texas (FAQs)

Course Information

Course Information

1. Who needs to take Texas drivers ed? Is there an age requirement?

In order to get your Texas learners license, you must complete 32 hours of formal drivers education. I Drive Safely’s online Texas drivers ed courses fulfill that requirement. You need to be at least 15 years old to get your Texas learners permit; you need to be at least 14 years old to do this course.

2. How does I Drive Safely’s online drivers ed course work?

The Texas online teen drivers ed program is a state-mandated 32 hours long. The information in our course is broken up into 12 units, each covering a specific topic regarding driving in Texas. After you complete each chapter, you’ll be given a short multiple-choice quiz. At the end of the course, you will be given a 50-question final exam. You will successfully complete the course by passing with an 80% or greater.

3. What’s the difference between the Texas parent-taught drivers ed course and the Texas TDLR-approved drivers ed course?

In parent-taught drivers ed, the class is led by your parent(s). You will complete 32 hours of online instruction, and your in-car driving lessons, all with your parent or guardian. Our DPS/TDLR-approved drivers ed course is still done online, but with the guidance of our team of experienced driving instructors. Your parent or guardian does not do the driving instruction; you’ll need to complete 44 total hours of supervised driving practice. This includes 7 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction with a licensed driving school and 7 hours of in-car observation, along with an additional 30 hours of supervised driving practice, 10 of which must be done at night.

4. How do I qualify to be an instructor for Texas parent-taught drivers ed?

The instructor can be a parent, stepparent, grandparent, step-grandparent, foster parent, or legal guardian and must meet the following requirements:

• Must have a valid Texas drivers license for the last three years. Active U.S. military personnel and their spouse may participate as instructors if they hold a valid license from their state of permanent residence or last duty station for the preceding three years.
• The instructor must have fewer than 6 points on his or her driving record.
• Cannot have a conviction (including a probated sentence) of criminally negligent homicide or driving while intoxicated.
• Must have a license that has not been suspended, revoked, or forfeited in the past three years for traffic–related violations.
• May not be disabled due to mental illness. Questions as to mental stability will be forwarded to the Medical Advisory Board for determination.

The instructor should verify they have a driving record in good standing. Order a copy of you Driving Record to confirm eligibility to be an instructor.

5. Does your online drivers ed course satisfy Texas DPS requirements?

Yes – our online course is DPS/TDLR-approved and meets all of the state’s requirements needed to get your Texas learners permit.

6. How long will it take me to finish the course?

You may work on our Texas online drivers ed course at your own pace; keep in mind, however, that the state of Texas prohibits participants from finishing the course in less than 16 calendar days.

7. What if I don’t pass the Texas online drivers ed final exam?

No worries. You’re allowed to take the final as many times as you need to pass.

8. How soon will I receive my certificate of completion?

As soon as you complete the course, we will send you your certificate of completion via email or FedEx, your choice.

9. How do I apply for a Texas learner license?

There are a few things you’ll need to get your Texas learners permit.

• AGE: You must be between 15 and 18 years old to apply for your permit.
• 6-Hour Permit Qualification Certificate
• Application for Texas Driver License, DL-14a
• Classroom Instruction Record 
• Behind the Wheel Instruction  Log
• The required fee for Instruction Permit Issuance
• Proof of registration and insurance (if you own the vehicle)
• Proof of identity
• PTDE Program Receipt

10. Do I receive a certificate of completion for the ITTD course?

Yes; upon completion you will be sent a certificate that must be presented at the time of your road test. It’s important to note that your certificate expires in 90 days; if you fail to take your road test within that time, you will be required to complete the course ITTD again.