Adult Driver's Ed FAQs for Weslaco Residents
Do I need drivers ed to get my permit?
If you are between 18 and 24 years old, you are required by Texas law to complete a Texas adult drivers education course to apply for your driver's license. This 6-hour course is designed to educate you on traffic laws, defensive driving, and road safety. Once you finish, you’ll receive an ADE-1317 certificate, which is required to get your license.
If you’re 25 or older, the course is optional, but it can simplify the process. By completing it, you can bypass the written knowledge test at the DPS office. Remember, in Texas, adults don’t receive a separate learners permit - your restricted license serves that purpose&8203;&8203;.
Do you offer courses outside Weslaco?
Yes! While our Texas adult drivers ed course is available for Weslaco residents, we also serve adults across Hidalgo County and many other Texas cities. We offer the same high-quality, state-approved course to residents in Mission, Irving, Rockwall, Temple, Baytown, Conroe, Longview, Plano, Hutto, Waco, League City, La Porte, Cedar Hill, and Midland. Whether you're in Weslaco or another city, our online course is accessible to all&8203;&8203;.
What is a DE-964 certificate?
The DE-964 certificate is issued to teenagers under 18 upon completing a teen drivers education course. Adults 18-24 years old, however, receive the ADE-1317 certificate after finishing the Texas 6-hour adult driving course. This certificate is required when applying for a Texas driver’s license and proves you’ve met the education requirement for your age group&8203;&8203;.
If you go to driving school, can you get your license faster?
Yes, completing an adult drivers ed course can speed up the process of getting your Texas driver’s license. If you’re 18-24, finishing this course allows you to skip the written knowledge test at the DPS. For those 25 and older, the course is optional but can save time and help you feel more prepared for your Texas DPS knowledge test and road test&8203;&8203;.
How many hours do you have to drive to get your license?
In Texas, adults 18 and older are not required to log a specific number of driving hours before taking their road test. However, practicing with a supervising driver or taking professional driving classes is highly recommended to build confidence and ensure you’re ready for the road test&8203;&8203;.
How many hours of driving do you need over 18?
There is no state-mandated requirement for supervised driving hours if you’re 18 or older. However, practicing under the supervision of a licensed adult (21+) or taking professional driving lessons is advised to help prepare for the Texas driving test&8203;.
How much is it to get my license?
The fee for a Texas driver’s license is $33. This includes the cost of issuing the license and any required tests. Additional fees may apply if you need to retake the Texas driving test or use a third-party testing facility&8203;.
What do they test you on during the road test?
The Texas driving test evaluates your ability to:
- Safely operate a vehicle.
- Obey traffic laws and signals.
- Perform key maneuvers like lane changes, merging, parallel parking, and stopping.
The test lasts about 20-30 minutes and is designed to assess your real-world driving skills&8203;&8203;.
Is there a written test for a driver’s license?
If you’re 18-24 and complete the Texas adult drivers ed course, the written knowledge test is included in the course, and you don’t need to take it separately. If you’re 25 or older and opt out of the course, you’ll need to pass the written knowledge test at the DPS office&8203;&8203;.
Do I need a permit if I’m over 18?
Adults 18 and older don’t receive a traditional learners permit. Instead, you’ll be issued a restricted license with a B restriction, which functions like a permit. This allows you to practice driving with a licensed adult until you’re ready to take the Texas driving test&8203;&8203;.
How much does it cost to take the permit test?
The Texas DPS knowledge test is included in the $33 driver’s license application fee. If you take the Texas adult drivers ed course, the written test is built into the course, so no additional fee is required&8203;.
After passing the written driving test, how long until I get my license?
Once you pass the road test, the DPS will issue a temporary paper license valid for 90 days. Your permanent driver’s license will arrive by mail within 2-3 weeks. If there are delays, ensure your mailing address on file with the DPS is correct&8203;.
Why should I take driver’s ed if I’m 25 or older?
Even though it’s not required for adults 25+, taking a Texas adult drivers ed course simplifies the licensing process. It helps you skip the written test at the DPS and ensures you’re well-prepared for both the road test and safe driving&8203;&8203;.
Do you offer driving lessons for adults?
While our online course doesn’t include in-car driving lessons, we encourage you to consider Texas behind the wheel drivers training through local instructors. These lessons can provide hands-on experience, focus on areas like parallel parking or highway merging, and boost your confidence before the road test&8203;.