Lubbock County Driver’s Ed FAQ
Do you have to do drivers ed at 18?
Yes, if you are between the ages of 18 and 24 in Texas, you must complete a state-approved 6-hour adult drivers ed course before applying for a driver’s license. This course provides foundational knowledge about Texas traffic laws, defensive driving strategies, and preparation for your Texas driving test. Once you successfully complete the course, you’ll receive an ADE-1317 certificate, which is required when visiting the DPS for your license application.
For those 25 years or older, drivers ed is not mandatory, but it remains highly recommended. Completing the course offers significant benefits, such as allowing you to skip the written knowledge test at the DPS. This simplifies the licensing process and provides valuable insights into driving laws, which are especially useful for first-time or returning drivers.
Whether you are required to take the course or not, it can help you feel more prepared and confident about navigating the roads in Lubbock County and beyond.
What do you need to request from the state before starting drivers ed?
There is no need to request any documents or approvals from the state before starting drivers ed. Enrolling in a TDLR-approved Texas adult driver education course is simple and doesn’t require prior authorization.
Once enrolled, you can start the course at your convenience. After completing it, you’ll receive an ADE-1317 certificate, which is essential for the licensing process. For Lubbock County residents, this means you can jump into your driver education journey without delays or extra paperwork.
What is drivers ed like?
Drivers ed provides a comprehensive introduction to safe and responsible driving. In Texas adult driver education, the course is structured to cover all the essential topics for earning your license and becoming a skilled driver:
- Traffic Laws and Regulations: Learn the rules of the road, including speed limits, right-of-way, and signage.
- Defensive Driving Techniques: Understand how to anticipate and respond to potential hazards, such as reckless drivers or poor weather conditions.
- Road Safety Practices: Explore the importance of avoiding distractions, understanding the dangers of impaired driving, and handling emergencies.
- Driver’s Exam Preparation: Build knowledge to pass the written and practical driving tests.
- Driver Responsibilities: Learn about regular vehicle maintenance and your role in ensuring road safety for everyone.
Online adult drivers ed courses are designed to be user-friendly, making them accessible for learners of all backgrounds. If you are in Lubbock County, you’ll also appreciate the flexibility to complete the course from home or on the go.
How to take drivers ed online?
Taking drivers ed online is straightforward and convenient, particularly for busy individuals. To get started:
- Enroll in a State-Approved Course: Choose a TDLR-approved Texas adult driver education provider.
- Start at Your Convenience: Once enrolled, begin the lessons immediately. The platform allows you to log in and out at your convenience, making it easy to fit into your schedule.
- Complete the Course: Work through the 6-hour curriculum, which covers traffic laws, safe driving techniques, and defensive driving practices.
- Receive Your Certificate: After completing the course, you’ll instantly receive your ADE-1317 certificate via email.
Lubbock County residents can access this online format from any device with internet access, ensuring a flexible and efficient way to meet Texas licensing requirements.
How many hours of driving do I need to get my license?
For adults in Texas, there is no required number of supervised driving hours to get your license. However, if you’re new to driving, it’s strongly advised to practice as much as possible with a licensed adult.
Here’s what to consider:
- Practice Hours: Regularly practice driving under various conditions, such as nighttime, heavy traffic, and inclement weather.
- Driving Lessons: Professional Texas driving lessons are highly beneficial for first-time drivers, as they focus on skills like parallel parking, merging, and defensive driving.
- Confidence Building: Practicing under supervision helps you prepare for real-world challenges and ensures readiness for the Texas driving test.
Although there’s no minimum requirement, adequate practice is key to passing the road test and driving safely in areas like Lubbock County.
What happens after passing the road test?
After passing the Texas driving test, you’ll receive a temporary paper driver’s license that is valid for 90 days. Your permanent Texas driver’s license will be mailed to you within 2–3 weeks.
While waiting, make sure to carry your temporary license whenever you drive. If you don’t receive the permanent license within three weeks, it’s important to contact the DPS to check the status of your application.
For those in Lubbock County, you can use this time to familiarize yourself with local driving rules and practice navigating around the city. This is especially helpful if you’re new to the area.
How long does it take to get a driver’s license in Texas?
The time it takes to obtain a Texas driver’s license depends on how quickly you complete the necessary steps. These include the 6-hour adult drivers ed course, the ITAD program, and scheduling appointments at the DPS.
For most people, the entire process - from enrolling in drivers ed to receiving your permanent license - takes approximately 2–6 weeks. Lubbock County residents should plan ahead, especially during busy seasons, as DPS appointments can fill up quickly.
How long are drivers tests?
Drivers tests in Texas generally take 20–30 minutes. During this time, you’ll be assessed on your ability to:
- Safely operate the vehicle.
- Follow traffic laws, including observing stop signs and speed limits.
- Perform essential maneuvers like lane changes, parking, and merging.
To prepare, make sure your car meets DPS safety standards and that you bring all required documents. If you’re in Lubbock County, scheduling your test early at a nearby DPS office or third-party location can save time and hassle.
Do you offer the Texas adult drivers ed course outside of Lubbock County?
Yes, we proudly serve students not only in Lubbock County but across many parts of Texas! While our course is perfect for residents of Lubbock and the surrounding areas, we also cater to students from other counties like Goliad County, Jones County, Van Zandt County, Medina County, Brazos County, and Orange County.
Additionally, we support learners in cities such as Goliad, Anson, Canton, Bryan, Kerrville, Eagle Pass, Hondo, and Lockhart. Wherever you are in Texas, our Texas adult drivers ed course is designed to meet your needs, helping you prepare for the Texas drivers license process with ease.
With our state-approved, online format, you can complete the required coursework at your own pace, no matter your location. Whether you're preparing for the Texas DPS permit test or looking to streamline the licensing process, we're here to help!
Do I still need a permit at 18?
If you are 18 or older in Texas, you do not receive a traditional Texas learners permit. Instead, you’ll be issued a restricted driver’s license with a “B” restriction. This functions similarly to a learners permit for adults and allows you to practice driving with a licensed adult (21 or older) in the passenger seat.
Do you have to take a written test for your license?
If you complete an adult drivers ed course, you can skip the written knowledge test at the DPS. This is because the Texas drivers license written test is included in the course curriculum.
For adults 25 and older who choose not to take drivers ed, passing the written test is a mandatory step in obtaining a driver’s license. Preparing with a Texas drivers license test practice resource is highly recommended.
How to obtain a drivers license in Texas?
To obtain a Texas driver’s license as an adult, follow these steps:
- Complete Drivers Ed: Required for ages 18–24; optional but beneficial for 25+.
- Finish the ITAD Program: A free one-hour distracted driving course available online.
- Gather Documents: Collect proof of identity, residency, and your ADE-1317 certificate.
- Schedule the Driving Test: Book your Texas driving test at a DPS office or approved third-party location.
- Pass the Tests: Complete the road test and provide all necessary documentation.
- Receive Your License: You’ll be issued a temporary license while waiting for the permanent one by mail.
By completing these steps, you’ll be well on your way to driving legally and confidently in Texas.