Texas prioritizes the safety of young drivers through a structured approach to licensing. This system ensures teenagers gain adequate education and driving practice before they receive full driving privileges. This process is known as the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program, designed to help A Learner become a safe and responsible driver.
The GDL program in Texas consists of two phases:
- Learner License: This initial stage allows you to practice driving under the supervision of a licensed adult.
- Provisional License: After the learner phase, you can obtain a provisional license, granting you permission to drive independently but with certain restrictions.
Learner License Requirements for a Teen Driver
To be eligible for a Texas Learner License, a learner must meet specific criteria:
- Age: You must be between 15 and 17 years old.
- Driver Education: Completion of the required hours of driver education classroom instruction is mandatory. The hours vary based on the chosen method:
- Concurrent method: 6 hours completed
- Block method: 32 hours completed
- Enrollment Verification: You need to provide proof of school enrollment. This can be:
- A high school diploma or GED.
- A completed Verification of Enrollment and Attendance (VOE) form.
Understanding the Verification of Enrollment (VOE) Form
The VOE form confirms that a learner is actively enrolled and attending school. Here are the specific VOE requirements:
- Enrollment in a public, private, or home school.
- Minimum 90% attendance in the semester preceding the application.
- The VOE form must be signed by a school official. A stamped or computer-generated signature is acceptable.
A VOE form is valid for 30 days from the date it is issued. However, VOE forms issued between June and August are valid for 90 days.
Alternatives if You Cannot Obtain a VOE Form
If a learner is unable to get a VOE form, there are alternative documents that may be accepted:
- Summer Application: If applying during the summer and still enrolled in school, you can provide your last report card. This must include your name, attendance record, and grades.
- High School Equivalency Program: Proof of active enrollment in a high school equivalency exam preparation program for at least 45 days prior to application.
Restrictions for a Texas Learner License Holder
When driving with a Texas Learner License, a learner must adhere to the following restrictions:
- Supervised Driving: A licensed driver who is 21 years of age or older must be in the front passenger seat at all times.
- No Cell Phone Use: All cell phone use is strictly prohibited while driving, including hands-free devices, unless it is a genuine emergency.
- License Suspension: If your learner license is suspended, the mandatory six-month holding period will be extended by the duration of the suspension. This ensures a learner holds a valid learner license for a full six months.
A Texas Learner License must be held for a minimum of six months, unless you reach 18 years of age before then. The license will automatically expire on your 18th birthday.
How to Apply for Your Texas Learner License: A Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for your Learner License in Texas is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to ensure a learner is prepared:
- Schedule an Appointment: Visit the Driver License Services – Appointments website to schedule an appointment at your local driver license office. It is required to bring a parent, legal guardian, or legal documentation if you are emancipated and parental authorization is waived.
- Complete the Application: Fill out the application form. This form is available online or at the driver license office.
- Provide Required Documentation: Present the following documents to the license and permit specialist:
- Social Security Number: Your Social Security Number will be verified electronically.
- Texas Driver Education Certificate: Proof of completion of the classroom portion of driver education.
- Evidence of passing the driver knowledge exam. If you did not take this exam during your driver education class, you will need to take it at the driver license office.
- Proof of school enrollment: A high school diploma, GED, or completed Verification of Enrollment and Attendance (VOE form).
- Biometric Information: Provide your signature and thumbprints.
- Have your photograph taken.
- Pay the application fee.
- Pass a Vision Exam.
Upon successful application, a learner will receive a temporary driving permit immediately. Before leaving, carefully review the information on the temporary permit and inform the specialist of any errors.
Your official learner license will typically arrive by mail within 2 to 3 weeks. You can track its mailing status on the mailing status webpage.
Important Awareness Programs for Young Texas Drivers
Tobacco Awareness
Texas law requires individuals under 18 years old convicted of offenses related to tobacco products to attend a tobacco awareness program. This includes possession, purchase, consumption, or receipt of cigarettes or tobacco products. The program must be approved by the Texas Department of State Health Services. Failure to complete the program within 90 days can lead to the suspension of your learner license or driving privileges.
Alcohol Awareness
Texas has implemented strict laws to deter drinking and driving, especially among young drivers. Texas has a Zero Tolerance law for minors (under 21) regarding alcohol. This means it is illegal for a learner or any minor to purchase, attempt to purchase, consume, or possess any alcoholic beverage. If any detectable amount of alcohol is found in their system while operating a vehicle (including watercraft) in a public place, it is a criminal offense: Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol by a Minor (DUIA by a Minor).
For detailed information, review the Alcohol Related Laws for Minors brochure.
For further information on enforcement actions related to learner licenses, please visit the Suspensions & Reinstatement section of the Texas DPS website.
This guide is designed to help a learner navigate the process of obtaining a Texas Learner License and understand the responsibilities that come with it. Drive safely and responsibly!
