DeWitt County Drivers License Online Course

If you are 18 to 24 years old, Texas law requires that you complete a Texas 6-hour driving course, also called an adult drivers ed course, before applying for a Texas adult driver license. This program teaches essential road rules, traffic safety, and defensive driving techniques while preparing you for the Texas drivers license written test.

For adults 25 or older, completing the course is optional. However, it is strongly recommended because it allows you to skip the Texas DPS written test online or in-person, making the licensing process much more efficient.

Upon completing the Texas adult driver education course, you will receive a Certificate of Completion. This document will be emailed to you within one business day, and you must bring it to the DPS during your visit. If you decide not to take the course and are 25 or older, you will need to pass the Texas permit test by studying the Texas DPS handbook and taking our Texas DPS practice test, designed to ensure you're fully prepared for success.

The Impact Texas Adult Drivers (ITAD) program is a free, state-mandated video course that educates drivers about the dangers of distracted driving. It is required for adults who have completed an adult drivers ed course.

• Eligibility: All adult drivers 18+ who completed a Texas adult driver education course must take this program.
• Timing: You must complete ITAD within 90 days before your scheduled Texas DPS behind the wheel test. Completing it too early will require you to retake the course.
• Registration: Enroll through the Texas DPS website using the Certificate of Completion from your drivers education course.

If you plan to apply for a restricted license first, you can delay completing this program until closer to your Texas driving test appointment.

To apply for your Texas adult driver license, you must bring several documents to your DPS appointment. Whether you're pursuing a restricted license or taking the full Texas behind the wheel test, these documents are essential:

• Proof of identity, such as a U.S. passport or birth certificate.
• Proof of Texas residency, such as a recent utility bill or rental agreement.
• Social Security Number or proof of ineligibility.
• Certificate of Completion from your Texas drivers license online course, if applicable.

Residents of DeWitt County should note that there are no DPS offices directly in the county. The nearest options for services are in nearby towns such as Victoria, Yoakum, or Gonzales. Appointments at these offices can fill quickly, so it's best to schedule early to avoid delays.

While Texas adult drivers do not receive a traditional Texas learners permit, first-time drivers can apply for a restricted license, also known as a Texas restricted license with a B-restriction. This license allows adults to practice driving with a licensed adult aged 21 or older in the passenger seat.

To obtain this license, visit a DPS office with the required documents and complete the vision test. If you've completed an adult drivers ed course, you won't need to take the Texas drivers license written test. If you did not take the course, you must pass the Texas permit test online or in person.

Unlike for minors, there is no mandatory holding period or minimum driving hours for adults with a restricted license. However, gaining supervised driving experience is highly recommended to build the skills necessary for the Texas DPS drivers license test.

After obtaining your restricted license, practicing your driving skills is crucial. DeWitt County's rural roads, quiet neighborhoods, and access to highways offer diverse opportunities for real-world driving practice.

• Practice with a Licensed Driver: A qualified adult, aged 21 or older with a valid driver's license, must accompany you at all times while driving.
• Target Key Scenarios: Practice essential maneuvers such as parallel parking, merging onto highways, and driving in different weather conditions.

Although not required by Texas law, professional driving lessons can help refine your skills and increase confidence. Many instructors offer Texas driving lessons that focus on passing the Texas driving test and ensuring safe, independent driving. Lessons can cost between $120 and $180 for two-hour sessions, but the investment is worthwhile for first-time drivers.

When you feel prepared, schedule your Texas DPS behind the wheel test. Residents of DeWitt County will likely need to visit DPS offices in Victoria, Gonzales, or other nearby towns for their test. Some private third-party testing facilities also offer the test and may provide greater scheduling flexibility.

• Prepare for the Test: Bring the following items on test day:
  • All required documents from your restricted license application.
  • Your ITAD certificate, completed within the last 90 days.
  • Proof of insurance for the vehicle you'll use.
  • A vehicle that meets all safety requirements, including functioning lights, brakes, and mirrors.
• No Vehicle? Many third-party testing facilities offer rental vehicles for the Texas drivers license test. Check in advance if you need this option.

During the test, your examiner will assess your ability to:

• Obey traffic laws and signals.
• Safely perform maneuvers like lane changes and parallel parking.
• Demonstrate situational awareness and defensive driving.

If you fail the test, you can retake it up to three times without reapplying for your license. Be sure to practice areas of difficulty before attempting the test again.

Congratulations! After passing your Texas driving test, you will receive a temporary paper license at the DPS office. Your official Texas adult driver license will arrive by mail within 2-3 weeks.

While waiting for your permanent license, keep the temporary license with you at all times when driving. Double-check that the address you provided to the DPS is correct to avoid delivery delays.

As a new driver in DeWitt County, you'll have the freedom to explore the county's rich history and scenic drives. From Cuero's historic landmarks to the serene roads near Yorktown, your new Texas drivers license opens doors to endless possibilities.