Texas Learners License as a Teen: A guide

Teen Drivers Phase I – Texas Learner License

In Texas, there are special rules for keep teen drivers safe on the road.  These involve education and practice before getting an unrestricted license.

There are two phases to licensing for all teens before obtaining an unrestricted driver license, referred to as the Graduated Driver License program.

• Learner License – allows driving practice with a licensed adult.
• Provisional License – allows independent driving with some restrictions.

Requirements:

• 15 and 17 years of age
• Completed the required hours for the driver education classroom instruction based on the method you selected, concurrent (6 hours) or block (24 hours)
• Provide a high school diploma, its equivalent (GED) or completed Verification of Enrollment and Attendance (VOE form)

VOE Requirements:

• Enrolled in a public, private, or home school with at least 90% attendance in the past semester.
• A signature (a stamped or computer-generated signature of a school official is acceptable)

A VOE is valid for 30 days from issuance or 90 days from issuance between months of June through August.

Unable to Obtain a VOE form:

• Provide last report card with name, attendance record, and grades if you apply in the summer and are still enrolled.
• Provide proof of active enrollment in a high school equivalency exam preparation program for the last 45 days.

A Learner License has the following restrictions:

• You must have a licensed adult 21 years or older in the front passenger seat when driving.
• No cell phones allowed.  All cell phones use is prohibited, including hands-free devices unless it’s an emergency.
• If your license is suspended at any time while you hold a learner license, the initial six-month period increases by the number of days of the suspension.  This is to make sure you hold a valid learner license for a full six-months.

A Learner license must be held for at least six months unless you turn 18; it will expire on your 18th birthday.

How to apply for your Learner License

1. Visit Driver License Services – Appointments to schedule an appointment at your local driver license office.  Bring a parent, legal guardian or evidence to waive parental authorization (Example:  emancipated)
2. Complete the application, available online or at the driver license office.
3. Provide the following documentation to the license and permit specialist:
   1. Completed driver license application form
   2. Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Presence (if not a U.S. Citizen)
   3. Proof of Texas Residency.
   4. Proof of Identity.
4. Social Security Number (verified electronically)
5. Texas Driver Education Certificate showing classroom completion.
   1. Certified Driver Training Schools – (DE-964/DEE-964)
   2. Parent Taught Driver Education – (DE-964/DEE-964)
   3. Public School Driver Education – (DE-964E/DEE-964E)
6. Evidence of successfully passing the driver knowledge exam (If you have not taken this test during the classroom portion of driver education, you will take it at the driver license office).
7. Provide a high school diploma, it’s equivalent (GED) or completed Verification of Enrollment and Attendance (VOE form)
8. Provide Biometric Information (signature and thumbprints)
9. Have your picture taken.
10. Pay the application fee.
11. Pass Vision Exam.

When you get your learner license, you will receive a temporary permit to drive right away.  Double-check the information on it before you leave, let the specialist know if there are any mistakes.

Your official learner license will usually arrive by mail within 2 – 3 weeks. You can track it on our mailing status webpage.

Tobacco Awareness

Individuals under 18 years of age who are convicted of possession, purchase, consumption or receipt of cigarettes or tobacco products must attend a tobacco awareness program approved by the Texas Department of State Health Services. Failure to complete the program within 90 days could result in the suspension of the individual’s learner license (or driving privilege if not licensed).

Alcohol Awareness

Texas enacted laws to discourage drivers from drinking and driving to make Texas roads safer. These laws include a Zero Tolerance for minors (under 21 years of age) who commit any alcohol related offenses. Zero tolerance means that a minor may not purchase, attempt to purchase, consume, or possess an alcoholic beverage. If any detectable amount of alcohol is in their system while operating a motor vehicle, including a watercraft, in a public place, it is a criminal offense of Driving under the Influence of Alcohol by a Minor (DUIA by a Minor). For more detailed information, download and review our Alcohol Related Laws for Minors brochure.

For more information on enforcement actions, please visit the web pages listed under Suspensions & Reinstatement.

Article source and photo credit: Texas Department of Public Safety