Montague County Approved Texas Drivers License Course

If you're 18-24 years old, completing a Texas adult drivers ed course is a legal requirement before applying for a Texas driver's license. This 6-hour approved driving course online covers traffic laws, defensive driving techniques, and road safety. Completing it also allows you to skip the Texas permit test at the DPS office, as the Texas drivers license written test is included in the course.

Adults 25 years or older can choose to skip this course but are strongly encouraged to take it. The knowledge gained from the Texas adult drivers ed course simplifies the licensing process and equips you with essential driving skills. Even if you feel confident, brushing up on state laws and road rules through this course or the Texas drivers license handbook is invaluable.

Once you complete the course, a Certificate of Completion will be issued electronically, which you'll need to proceed. You can also prepare for the Texas adult permit test with a Texas DPS practice test, readily available online to reinforce your knowledge.

The next step for all applicants, regardless of age, who completed a Texas adult driver education course is the Impact Texas Adult Drivers (ITAD) program. This free, one-hour video course focuses on the risks associated with distracted driving.

• Eligibility: Required for anyone completing a Texas adult driving course.
• Timing: Complete the program no more than 90 days before your Texas DPS driving test, as the certificate expires after this window.
• Registration: You can register on the DPS website after obtaining your Certificate of Completion from the Texas adult drivers ed course.

If you're not scheduling your road test immediately, hold off on completing the ITAD course until you're ready. For those who haven't taken drivers ed, this step is not required until you complete the driving test prerequisites.

For first-time drivers, obtaining a restricted driver's license is essential to legally practice driving with supervision. Though commonly referred to as a learner's permit for adults, this restricted license operates similarly. Adults 18+ have this option, while those under 18 receive a provisional Texas restricted license.

Montague County does not have its own DMV office, so residents can visit DPS offices in nearby counties such as Denton or Wichita Falls. Call ahead to confirm hours of operation and required documents.

When visiting the DPS office to apply, bring:

• Proof of identity (e.g., U.S. passport or birth certificate).
• Proof of Texas residency, such as a utility bill or rental agreement.
• Proof of Social Security Number.
• Certificate of Completion for your Texas adult drivers ed course (if applicable).
• Completed Driver License or Identification Card Application (DL-14A).

You'll also undergo a vision test to confirm you meet the eyesight requirements for driving. The application fee is $33.

If you completed an approved 6-hour driving course online, the Texas drivers license written test will not be required. Otherwise, be prepared to take the Texas adult permit test at the DPS office. Use a Texas DPS practice test to prepare, ensuring you're ready for questions on Texas road rules, traffic signs, and safe driving practices.

After obtaining your restricted license, you can begin practicing supervised driving. Texas law requires a supervising driver to be at least 21 years old, have a valid Texas driver's license, and sit in the front passenger seat. This supervised practice is invaluable for developing safe driving habits and confidence.

While there's no mandatory practice period for adults, it's wise to log significant driving time in different conditions. Montague County's rural roads, quiet neighborhoods, and scenic routes near landmarks like the Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland provide excellent opportunities for practice.

Professional driving classes can also be beneficial. Certified instructors focus on advanced maneuvers like parallel parking, merging, and lane changes, which are critical for passing the Texas DPS driving test. These Texas driving lessons typically cost between $120 and $180 for a two-hour session but can save you time and help address specific areas of concern.

When you're confident in your driving abilities, schedule the Texas DPS driving test. This step evaluates your practical skills and determines if you're ready for an unrestricted Texas drivers license. Montague County residents can schedule tests at DPS offices in neighboring counties or at third-party testing centers, which often have more flexible hours and shorter wait times.

Before your test:

• Ensure you have all necessary documents, including your restricted license, ITAD certificate, and proof of vehicle insurance.
• Verify your vehicle meets DPS safety standards, with functioning lights, brakes, and mirrors.

The Texas driving test evaluates your ability to operate a vehicle safely, obey traffic laws, and perform essential maneuvers such as:

• Lane changes.
• Parking (including parallel parking).
• Merging into traffic.
• Stopping and signaling correctly.

If you fail, you can retake the test up to three times without reapplying. Use the examiner's feedback to improve, and consider scheduling additional driving classes if needed. Third-party testing facilities often provide rental vehicles for the test, which can be a convenient option if you don't have access to a car.

Upon passing the Texas DPS drivers test, you'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 90 days. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within 2-3 weeks. To avoid delays, double-check your mailing address during your DPS visit.

Montague County is known for its rich history and small-town charm. Once you have your Texas driver's license, you'll have the freedom to explore local attractions, such as the historic courthouse in Montague and the Chisholm Trail markers in Nocona. Residents also enjoy driving to nearby cultural events in Denton or recreational activities in Wichita Falls, making a driver's license a vital tool for accessing the region's diverse offerings.

Additional Tips for Montague County Residents

• Utilize a Texas DPS practice test to prepare for the Texas adult permit test, even if you've taken Texas adult drivers ed. Practice tests boost confidence and ensure you're ready for the real test.
• Montague County's rural roads can help new drivers build skills like driving in open areas and handling country roads. Be sure to practice in varying weather conditions and traffic situations.
• Since the county lacks a DMV office, plan trips to nearby locations like Wichita Falls for all DPS services. Scheduling appointments in advance can save time.