Austin Adult Drivers Education

  • Earn your Texas driver's license faster with our DPS-approved course.
  • Retake unlimited quizzes to ace your Texas written driving test online practice.
  • Skip the Texas permit test at the DPS after completing our online course.
  • Study smarter with a free Texas DPS driver's handbook included.
  • Fully accredited by the BBB with an A+ rating for trust and quality.
  • Meets all Texas DPS driver license requirements for adults.
$34.95
Limited time offer. Regular price $69.95
18+
A driving course for adults
Pass guarantee
Pass the 6 hour driving course or get your money back
Texas Adult Drivers License Guide
Simplified steps for obtaining a Texas adult drivers license, tailored for individuals in Austin, Texas, with a focus on drivers education and preparation.

Verify Eligibility and Understand Requirements

Obtaining a Texas driving license as an adult begins with understanding the rules that apply to your age group. If you are between 18 and 24 years old, you must complete a Texas adult drivers ed course before applying for a license. If you are 25 or older, the course is optional but highly recommended. Completing it can save you time by including the drivers license written test within the course itself, allowing you to skip the Texas DPS permit test at the DPS office.

The process differs slightly for Austin residents because of the city's unique traffic environment, including bike-friendly streets and heavy congestion in areas like downtown. Having clear knowledge of the requirements can help you navigate the process efficiently.

Enroll in a Texas Adult Drivers Ed Course

Enrolling in an approved 6-hour driving course online is one of the most straightforward steps in obtaining your Texas adult drivers license. This course is mandatory for individuals aged 18-24 and beneficial for those 25 and older.

These courses are tailored to teach critical concepts such as:

  • Texas traffic laws.
  • Defensive driving strategies.
  • Rules for navigating city-specific challenges like Austin's pedestrian zones and bike lanes.

Upon completion, you'll receive a Certificate of Completion, which is often emailed within one business day. This certificate is necessary for further steps in the process and can save you time at the DPS office by eliminating the need to take the Texas permit test separately.

Complete the Impact Texas Adult Drivers (ITAD) Program

The ITAD program is required for adults who complete drivers education. This free, one-hour video course educates drivers about the dangers of distracted driving, with a focus on practical tips to stay focused behind the wheel.

Here's how to ensure a smooth ITAD process:

  • Complete the course within 90 days of your Texas DPS driving test.
  • Use your drivers ed Certificate of Completion to register for the program online.
  • Keep the ITAD certificate to present at your Texas DPS road test.

Austin's bustling streets, like those around the University of Texas campus, are prime examples of areas where distracted driving can lead to accidents. The ITAD program prepares drivers to navigate these challenges safely.

Prepare for the Texas Permit Test (Optional for 25+)

For adults 25 and older who opt out of drivers education, passing the Texas DPS permit test is mandatory. Preparation is key to success. Use the Texas DPS handbook to study all relevant rules and road signs and take advantage of online resources like the Texas DPS practice test.

The practice driving test is particularly useful for identifying weak points and building confidence. Austin's unique traffic patterns, including high-speed highways like I-35 and residential areas with heavy pedestrian activity, may be covered in the written test. Familiarizing yourself with these scenarios can increase your chances of passing on the first attempt.

Gather the Necessary Documents

To streamline your visit to the Texas DPS office in Austin, ensure you have the required documents ready. These include:

  • Proof of Identity: Such as a U.S. passport or birth certificate.
  • Proof of Lawful Presence or Citizenship: A document confirming your legal status in the U.S.
  • Proof of Texas Residency: A recent utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement.
  • Social Security Number: Your Social Security card or another official document containing your number.
  • Certificate of Completion from Drivers Ed: Required if you took a Texas adult drivers ed course.

Austin residents can visit convenient DPS locations such as those on North Lamar Blvd, South I-35 Frontage Rd, or Research Blvd. Double-check the operating hours and make an appointment where possible.

Apply for a Texas Restricted License

For adults 18 and older, the next step is obtaining a restricted driver's license. This license allows you to legally practice driving with a supervising driver who is 21 years or older. While referred to as a "permit" in common language, the official term for adults is a restricted license.

This step is especially important for first-time drivers, as it gives them the opportunity to gain real-world experience before taking the Texas DPS driving test.

Practice Driving with a Restricted License

Once you have your restricted license, it's time to start practicing. Austin's mix of urban and suburban streets offers varied driving conditions.

Key areas to practice in Austin include:

  • Downtown Streets: Gain experience with pedestrian-heavy zones and traffic lights.
  • I-35 and Mopac Expressway: Practice merging and maintaining speeds on highways.
  • Residential Areas: Learn how to handle slower traffic, narrow streets, and stop signs.

While there's no mandatory minimum practice time for adults, ensuring you are comfortable with a range of scenarios will make you more confident during the Texas DPS road test.

Consider Professional Driving Lessons

For extra preparation, behind the wheel drivers training with a certified instructor can be invaluable. These lessons focus on advanced skills such as parallel parking, handling traffic on Austin's crowded highways, and navigating challenging road conditions.

Professional lessons, though optional, provide feedback on your driving and help address any areas where you feel uncertain. They're a great resource for adults who may need extra practice before their Texas DPS driving test.

Schedule Your Texas DPS Road Test

When you're ready, schedule your Texas DPS road test. This can be done online for Austin-area DPS locations or through approved third-party testing centers. Popular DPS offices in Austin include the North Lamar location, which is centrally located and easily accessible.

Ensure all your documents are in order, including:

  • Your restricted license.
  • ITAD certificate (valid within the last 90 days).
  • Proof of insurance for the vehicle you'll use.
  • A roadworthy vehicle meeting DPS safety standards.

For those without access to a vehicle, some third-party centers offer rentals specifically for the road test.

Take and Pass the Texas DPS Road Test

The Texas DPS road test evaluates your ability to:

  • Obey traffic laws.
  • Perform key maneuvers like lane changes, stopping, and parking.
  • Drive safely under real-world conditions.

Austin's road test routes often include high-traffic areas, intersections, and residential zones, offering a comprehensive evaluation of your driving skills. If you fail the test, don't worry-you can retake it up to three times without reapplying for your license. Take feedback from the examiner seriously and practice accordingly.

Receive Your Unrestricted Texas Driver's License

Congratulations! After passing the road test, you'll receive a temporary Texas driver licence, valid for 90 days, while your permanent license is mailed to your address. Most applicants receive their official license within 2-3 weeks.

Ensure your mailing address is up to date with the DPS to avoid delays. In the meantime, enjoy exploring Austin's roads and scenic routes, such as the nearby Hill Country or Lady Bird Lake area, with your new driving freedom.

Additional Tips for Austin Residents

  • Leverage Local Resources: Austin is home to several Texas DPS offices and third-party testing centers, making it convenient to find a location that fits your schedule.
  • Practice Smart: Take advantage of the Texas DPS practice test to prepare for the written driving test online and build your confidence.
  • Drive Responsibly: Austin's vibrant community includes cyclists, pedestrians, and eco-conscious drivers, so always stay alert and considerate on the road.

By following these steps, adults in Austin can navigate the process of obtaining a Texas adult drivers license with ease, combining structured education with hands-on experience to become safe and confident drivers.

Recommended by leading driver safety & consumer protection organizations

Austin Adult Driver Education: Online vs. Classroom

Tailored Learning for Austin's Busy Residents

Drivers License Online Course

Learn Anywhere, Anytime - Without the Austin Commute

$34.95
Read more

For Austin residents looking to earn their Texas adult drivers license, an online course is the ideal solution. Designed for flexibility, it allows you to learn at your own pace without the need to navigate Austin's notoriously busy roads. Whether you're preparing for the Texas permit test or just starting your adult drivers ed course, the online format saves you time and energy.

  • Environmentally Friendly: Say goodbye to printed materials and unnecessary driving. Opting for an online course reduces your carbon footprint while giving you access to all the resources you need digitally.
  • Automatic Record Keeping: Keep your progress and certifications stored safely online. This means no more misplaced documents when it's time to complete your Texas DPS driver license paperwork.
  • Skip the Written Test: Completing the Texas adult driver education course allows you to bypass the written knowledge test at the DPS, making the journey to your license even smoother.

For Austin residents balancing work, school, or family commitments, this online option offers unparalleled convenience. Start today and take one step closer to earning your Texas drivers license without the stress of classroom scheduling or commutes!

Classroom Drivers Ed in Austin

Traditional Learning, Without the Austin Edge

Read more

While classroom-based Texas drivers education has been a traditional choice, it might not be the best fit for Austin's fast-paced lifestyle. These programs require in-person attendance, often leading to logistical challenges such as navigating Austin's heavy traffic and limited parking options.

  • Limited Learning Tools: Unlike online courses that use interactive media and engaging content, classrooms tend to rely on lectures and printed materials, which may not resonate with all learners.
  • No 24/7 Support: Unlike online programs, traditional classroom courses don't offer round-the-clock assistance for questions or technical issues, limiting access to help when you need it.
  • Peer Pressure Concerns: For some students, participating in a classroom environment may feel intimidating, especially when asking questions or sharing opinions.

Austin's growing population and traffic congestion make traditional classrooms a less practical choice. Save time and stress by enrolling in an online adult drivers ed course that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle while preparing you efficiently for your Texas adult permit test.

DMV Offices Near You
Your Guide to DMV Locations in Austin

Texas DPS - Austin

6121 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78752

3.5(507)
Texas DPS - Austin

6425 S I-35 Frontage Rd suite 180, Austin, TX 78744

3.2(875)
Texas DPS - Austin

5805 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78752

2.8(305)
Texas DPS - Austin

13730 Research Blvd, Austin, TX 78750

3.5(646)
Ace the Austin Roads, Hassle-Free
Your Fast Track to a Texas Adult Drivers License
Learn Your Way
Experience the freedom to study for your Texas adult drivers ed course on your schedule. Whether you're at home in Austin's hustle or enjoying downtime at Zilker Park, you can learn at your own pace without the stress of traditional classrooms. Get closer to your Texas drivers license with convenience tailored to you.
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Track Your Success
Stay on top of your progress with user-friendly tools that show you exactly where you are and what's next. Austin students love how this Texas adult drivers ed course ensures no missed steps. From mastering the Texas DPS handbook to acing the Texas written driving test practice, you'll know you're always on track.
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Make Learning Fun
Dive into an engaging experience with game-like features such as badges, leaderboards, and rewards. Austin learners stay motivated and excited while preparing for their Texas permit test or Texas DPS driving test. Learning to drive has never been this fun or effective!
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Austin Drivers Ed FAQs
Your Guide to Texas Adult Licensing
Does drivers ed expire?

The certificate of completion for a Texas adult drivers ed course does not expire. This means you can complete the course and use the certificate at any time when applying for your Texas driver license. This flexibility is particularly useful if you plan your Texas DPS driving test for a later date. However, it’s important to note that the Impact Texas Adult Drivers (ITAD) program certificate, which is required before taking the driving test, does expire. The ITAD certificate is valid for 90 days, so you’ll need to schedule and complete your road test within this timeframe.

How much are driving classes?

The cost of a Texas adult drivers ed course is $34.95 if taken online. This fee includes access to state-approved course materials and progress tracking, making it a convenient and affordable way to fulfill the education requirement.

For hands-on driving lessons, such as behind-the-wheel training, costs typically range from $120 to $180 for a two-hour session. In Austin, you can find driving schools offering professional lessons tailored to first-time drivers or those looking to refine their skills before the Texas DPS behind-the-wheel test. Prices may vary based on the specific services provided, but most packages aim to offer value for money.

How long do you have to take drivers ed?

There’s no deadline for completing a Texas adult drivers ed course. The course itself takes a total of six hours, as mandated by the state of Texas for drivers between 18 and 24 years old. You can complete it in one day or divide it into several shorter sessions over weeks or even months.

For example, an Austin resident with a busy schedule can work through the course at their own pace without worrying about rushing. The self-paced format ensures that no progress is lost, as your work is saved automatically every time you log out.

Do you take drivers ed before permit?

Yes, if you are 18 to 24 years old, completing a Texas adult drivers ed course is required before obtaining a restricted driver license, often called a Texas adult learners permit. This course includes the written knowledge test, meaning you won’t need to take it separately at the DPS.

For adults aged 25 and older, drivers ed is not required, but it’s highly recommended. Completing a Texas adult drivers ed course allows you to skip the written knowledge test at the DPS, streamlining the licensing process and providing critical road safety knowledge.

Do you only offer drivers ed in Austin?

No, while we proudly serve the Austin community, our Texas adult drivers ed course is available online to adults across the state. In addition to Austin and Travis County, we provide access to residents of cities like Fort Worth, Victoria, Beaumont, Frisco, Corpus Christi, North Richland Hills, Harlingen, Conroe, El Paso, Cedar Park, Midland, and Brownsville.

This wide coverage ensures that wherever you are in Texas, you can take advantage of our convenient, state-approved course and prepare for your Texas driver license from the comfort of your home.

How to take drivers ed online?

Taking drivers ed online is simple and flexible. Start by enrolling in a Texas adult drivers ed course, like ours, which is state-approved and tailored to adults 18 years and older. Once enrolled, you can log in from any internet-enabled device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer.

The course is designed to save your progress, allowing you to work through the six hours at your own pace. This is particularly helpful for individuals in Austin juggling busy schedules, as it lets you complete the lessons when it’s most convenient for you. Upon completion, you’ll receive your ADE-1317 certificate, which is required to apply for your Texas driver license.

How much does a driver's license cost in Texas?

The cost of obtaining a Texas driver license is $33 for adults aged 18 and older. This fee is paid when you submit your application at the DPS office and covers the processing of your Texas driver license.

If you choose to take the Texas driving test at a third-party testing center, additional fees may apply, usually ranging from $50 to $80. In Austin, several approved facilities provide testing services if you prefer a more flexible schedule compared to DPS offices.

How far away from the curb for parallel parking in Texas?

When parallel parking during your Texas DPS driving test, your vehicle must be within 18 inches of the curb. Parking too far away or hitting the curb can result in point deductions or even failure, depending on the severity of the error.

Practicing this skill on Austin streets, especially in busier areas with tight parking spaces, can help you master it before your test. Use cones or markers to simulate curbs while practicing if you’re in an open lot.

What is the minimum score to pass road test Texas?

To pass the Texas DPS driving test, you need a minimum score of 70 out of 100. This score reflects your ability to follow traffic rules, demonstrate safe driving habits, and perform specific maneuvers like parallel parking and lane changes.

In Austin, it’s a good idea to practice in environments similar to where you’ll take your driving test, including residential streets, busy intersections, and parking lots, to build confidence and familiarity with local road conditions.

How to get a drivers license at 18?

To get a Texas driver license at 18:

  1. Complete a Texas adult drivers ed course (required for 18-24 years old).
  2. Finish the Impact Texas Adult Drivers (ITAD) program.
  3. Gather the necessary documents, including proof of identity and residency.
  4. Schedule your driving test at a DPS office or an approved third-party provider.
  5. Pass the Texas DPS behind the wheel test and pay the $33 fee.

Once you pass, you’ll receive a temporary license, and your permanent Texas driver license will be mailed to you.

Can I take my drivers permit test online?

Yes, adults aged 18 to 24 can take the written portion of the Texas permit test online as part of a Texas adult drivers ed course. The course includes the Texas DPS written test online, which eliminates the need to take it separately at a DPS office.

After completing the course, you’ll receive an ADE-1317 certificate to present when applying for your Texas driver license. However, the driving test must still be taken in person.

How many points can you get off on your drivers test?

You can lose up to 30 points on the Texas DPS driving test and still pass. Points are deducted for errors such as failing to signal, improper lane changes, or not stopping correctly at signs. However, a single serious violation, like running a red light, can result in automatic failure.

To maximize your chances of passing, practice extensively in Austin traffic conditions, such as merging onto busy highways or navigating downtown intersections.

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