FAQs for McAllen Adult Driver’s Ed Course
How much does driver’s ed cost?
Our Texas adult drivers ed course is priced at $34.95. This cost includes access to all required materials, allowing you to study at your own pace. The course is state-approved and fulfills Texas requirements for adult drivers education. Whether you’re in McAllen or elsewhere in the state, this course provides excellent value as an affordable and convenient step toward obtaining your Texas driver’s license. There are no hidden fees, and your progress is automatically saved so you can start and stop the course as needed without losing your place.
Do I need to take drivers ed at 18?
Yes, drivers ed is required for anyone aged 18 to 24 who is applying for a Texas driver’s license. The state mandates a 6-hour adult drivers ed course, which covers critical road safety, driving laws, and best practices. You’ll receive an ADE-1317 certificate upon completing the course, which you must present when applying for your license at the DPS. For McAllen residents, this course is available online, making it easy to complete wherever you are.
If you’re 25 or older, drivers ed is not mandatory, but taking the course can simplify the licensing process. It helps you bypass the written knowledge test at the DPS, making your journey to getting your license faster and easier.
How long does drivers ed take in Texas?
The Texas adult drivers ed course takes 6 hours to complete. This duration is fixed by the state and is sufficient to cover essential topics like Texas traffic laws, defensive driving, and preparation for the Texas permit test.
You can finish the course in one day or spread it across multiple sessions, depending on your schedule. For residents in McAllen, this flexibility makes it easy to fit the course into your routine. The online platform allows you to log in and out as needed, saving your progress automatically so you can continue where you left off.
How to do drivers ed?
Completing drivers ed is straightforward:
- Enroll in a state-approved Texas adult drivers ed course online.
- Complete the 6-hour curriculum, which includes videos, quizzes, and interactive lessons.
- Receive your ADE-1317 certificate upon completion.
McAllen residents can complete this entire process online from the comfort of their homes. The certificate is emailed to you immediately, and you can then proceed with the next steps to get your Texas driver’s license.
What is ITD?
ITD, or Impact Texas Drivers, is a free educational program developed by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). For adults, the specific course is called the Impact Texas Adult Drivers (ITAD) program. This one-hour video course highlights the dangers of distracted driving and is required for all applicants completing drivers ed before taking the Texas driving test.
McAllen residents should complete the ITAD program within 90 days of their scheduled test date to ensure their certificate is valid. The program is free and can be accessed on the DPS website after you’ve completed your adult drivers ed course.
What do you need to bring to take your permit test?
To take your Texas permit test at the DPS, you’ll need to bring:
- Proof of identity (e.g., U.S. passport or birth certificate).
- Proof of Social Security number.
- Proof of Texas residency (e.g., utility bill or rental agreement).
- Your ADE-1317 certificate (if aged 18–24).
Additionally, you should complete the application form (DL-14A) beforehand to save time during your appointment. Residents of McAllen can visit the nearest DPS office to submit these documents and take the test.
How to get a Texas driver’s license?
To get a Texas driver’s license, follow these steps:
- Enroll in and complete the Texas adult drivers ed course (mandatory for ages 18–24).
- Finish the Impact Texas Adult Drivers (ITAD) program.
- Schedule an appointment at your local DPS office.
- Pass the Texas driving test or Texas DPS written test online.
For McAllen residents, there are DPS locations and approved third-party testing centers nearby to make the process more convenient. You’ll also need to bring proof of identity, residency, and your ADE-1317 certificate (if required) to your appointment.
Where else can I take your course in Texas?
Our Texas adult drivers ed course is available to residents across the state, not just McAllen. In addition to serving all of Hidalgo County, we proudly offer our course to cities like League City, Odessa, Corpus Christi, Waco, San Marcos, Carrollton, Schertz, Flower Mound, Rockwall, Tyler, Friendswood, Victoria, and McKinney. The online format ensures that wherever you are in Texas, you can easily access and complete the course.
What to know before taking the driving test?
Before taking your Texas driving test, make sure you:
- Complete the ITAD program and bring your certificate (valid for 90 days).
- Have a vehicle that meets all DPS safety requirements (e.g., functioning lights, brakes).
- Carry proof of insurance and registration for your vehicle.
- Practice key skills like parallel parking, lane changes, and defensive driving.
McAllen residents should book their driving test early, as appointments at the local DPS office or third-party testing sites can fill up quickly.
What is the basic driver’s license?
The basic driver’s license in Texas is an unrestricted license that allows you to drive independently. It is issued after completing the necessary steps, including drivers ed (if required), the ITAD program, and the Texas driving test.
For McAllen residents, the process is streamlined with access to online drivers ed courses and local DPS offices for testing. Once obtained, your Texas driver’s license will allow you the freedom to drive throughout the state.
What do you need to pass your permit test?
To pass the Texas permit test, you’ll need to prepare by studying the Texas drivers handbook and taking Texas DPS practice tests. These resources cover essential topics like traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.
McAllen residents can access practice tests online to boost their confidence and readiness for the test. Being well-prepared ensures you can pass the test on your first attempt.
How to parallel park for driving test?
Parallel parking is a key skill for your Texas driving test. Follow these steps:
- Align your vehicle parallel to the car in front of the space.
- Reverse slowly while turning the wheel toward the curb.
- Adjust as necessary to fit within the lines of the space.
McAllen drivers can practice in local parking lots or streets to perfect this maneuver before their driving test.
What do I need to bring for the Texas driving test?
When taking the Texas driving test, bring:
- A valid restricted license or permit.
- Your ITAD certificate, completed within 90 days.
- Proof of insurance and registration for the test vehicle.
- Your ADE-1317 certificate, if required.
If you’re in McAllen and don’t have access to a vehicle, some third-party testing centers offer rentals. Confirm availability and requirements ahead of time to avoid delays.