New Braunfels Driver’s Ed FAQs
Do you have to take drivers ed at 18?
Yes, in Texas, adults aged 18 to 24 are legally required to complete a state-approved 6-hour adult drivers ed course before they can apply for a Texas driver’s license. This course is designed to teach essential traffic laws, defensive driving techniques, and road safety practices. Additionally, the Texas DPS written test is included as part of the course, saving you a trip to the DPS office for this step.
If you’re 25 or older, drivers education is optional. However, completing the course can significantly benefit first-time drivers by eliminating the need to take the Texas drivers license written test at the DPS. The course is an excellent way to prepare for driving safely on Texas roads, and it simplifies the overall process of obtaining a license.
Where can I get a copy of the Texas drivers handbook?
The Texas drivers handbook, also known as the DPS handbook, is available for free download from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website. You can also pick up a physical copy at most DPS offices, including those in or near New Braunfels.
This handbook is a vital resource for anyone preparing for the Texas DPS written test or Texas driver test practice. It contains all the traffic laws, road signs, and driving rules you need to know to pass your test and become a safe driver.
Who has to pass an approved driver education course?
Texas requires adults aged 18 to 24 to pass an approved adult drivers education course before applying for a driver’s license. This course is mandatory and helps ensure that new drivers have a solid understanding of Texas traffic laws and driving safety.
For adults aged 25 and older, the course is not required but is still highly recommended. Completing the course allows you to skip the written knowledge test at the DPS and gives you a strong foundation for safe driving. Whether you’re just learning to drive or need a refresher, this course can help streamline your path to a Texas driver’s license.
What do you do in driving school?
In an adult drivers ed course, you’ll learn the key skills and knowledge necessary to become a confident and safe driver. Topics typically covered include:
- Traffic Laws and Road Rules: Detailed explanations of state driving laws, traffic signs, and safety practices.
- Defensive Driving Techniques: Strategies to help you anticipate and react to road hazards.
- Road Safety Practices: Tips to avoid distractions and manage emergencies.
- Preparation for Exams: Guidance to pass the Texas drivers license written test and road test.
Many first-time drivers also take behind the wheel drivers training to gain hands-on experience. These sessions are especially beneficial for learning practical driving skills and building confidence before the Texas DPS driving test.
Where else is your driver’s education course available?
While our Texas adult drivers ed course is popular in New Braunfels, we also serve residents in cities across Texas, including San Marcos, Houston, Arlington, McKinney, Lubbock, Waco, Brownsville, Carrollton, Midland, Richardson, and League City.
Our course is fully online, so you can complete it from anywhere in Texas. It’s designed to fit into your schedule, making it ideal whether you’re in Comal County or another part of the state.
How many hours do you need to get a license?
If you’re aged 18 to 24, you must complete a 6-hour adult drivers ed course to meet Texas requirements. This course prepares you for the written test and ensures you’re ready to handle the responsibilities of driving.
For adults aged 25 and older, there’s no mandatory drivers education or in-car driving lesson requirement. However, taking a drivers ed course can streamline the process by helping you skip the Texas drivers license written test and prepare for the DPS road test.
If you have your permit who can you drive with?
Adults in Texas receive a restricted driver’s license instead of a traditional learner’s permit. With this license, you can only drive with a licensed adult aged 21 or older seated in the front passenger seat. This is a crucial step in practicing safe driving before taking your Texas DPS driving test.
Driving alone while holding a restricted license is against Texas law and can result in penalties or delays in obtaining your unrestricted license.
How to take written driving test in Texas?
If you’re aged 18 to 24, the Texas DPS written test is included in the 6-hour adult drivers ed course, so you won’t need to take it separately. Upon completing the course, you’ll receive a certificate (ADE-1317) that fulfills this requirement.
If you’re 25 or older and choose not to take the course, you’ll need to take the Texas drivers license written test at a DPS office. To prepare, study the DPS handbook and use Texas drivers ed practice test resources to increase your confidence.
How do I get my license in Texas?
Here’s how to get your Texas drivers license as an adult:
- Complete a Drivers Ed Course: Required for 18–24-year-olds; optional for 25+.
- Finish the ITAD Program: A free one-hour course on distracted driving, required before the Texas DPS driving test.
- Pass the Written Test: Included in the drivers ed course for 18–24-year-olds or taken separately at the DPS for 25+.
- Practice Driving: Use your restricted license to gain supervised experience.
- Pass the Driving Test: Schedule your Texas DPS driving test when ready.
- Get Your License: After passing all tests, you’ll receive your unrestricted Texas driver’s license.
What does a driving test consist of?
The Texas DPS driving test evaluates your ability to operate a vehicle safely and perform essential driving maneuvers, including:
- Parallel parking
- Lane changes
- Observing traffic signs and signals
- Merging and turning safely
- Stopping at appropriate locations
To prepare, practice thoroughly with a licensed adult or consider professional Texas behind the wheel drivers training to refine your skills.
What are automatic fails on driving test?
Some actions will result in an automatic fail during your Texas DPS road test, such as:
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Failing to yield to pedestrians or other vehicles
- Driving recklessly or causing an accident
- Inability to control the vehicle safely
Ensuring your vehicle is in good working order, staying calm, and practicing defensive driving can help you avoid these mistakes.
What do I need to get a permit?
Technically, adults in Texas don’t receive a traditional learner’s permit. Instead, they are issued a restricted driver’s license with a "B" restriction. To get one, you’ll need:
- Proof of identity and residency
- Your Social Security number
- Completion certificate (ADE-1317) from the drivers ed course, if 18–24
- Proof of insurance (if you own a vehicle)
Bring these documents to your local DPS office, pass the vision test, and complete the written test if required.