Getting a driver's license is a big deal, and most states require new drivers to prove they're ready for the road. Texas is no different. For teens, the Lone Star State requires a learner's permit first. Then — if you satisfy all the requirements — you can move on to a Texas driver's license. This system is meant to keep everyone safe by limiting teens' time on the road while they gain more experience behind the wheel.
Here's what you need to know about Texas permit rules.
What Is the Texas Graduated License System?
Texas uses a graduated licensing system, which means that drivers aged 17 and younger must complete a series of steps before they are eligible for a full driver's license at age 18. There are two parts to the graduated system:
Learner License: Teens need a learner's permit for at least six months while they complete a driver education course and practice supervised training behind the wheel.
Provisional License: Beginning at age 16 — and after completing the Learner License requirement — teen drivers can drive independently with limitations.
At age 18, Provisional License holders can transfer to a standard Texas driver's license with full privileges.
Requirements for a Texas Learner's Permit
A Texas Learner License is only available to drivers between 15 and 17. You have to provide evidence you've either received a high school diploma, are enrolled in school at least 90% of the time, or are working toward your GED.
In addition to age and school regulations, you must also meet the driver's education requirements. The entire required curriculum is 32 hours, but to get a permit, you just need to complete at least six hours.
To apply for a permit, you'll have to show proof of:
Your U.S. Citizenship or lawful presence verification
Your residence in Texas
Your identity, including your Social Security number
Registration and insurance for your vehicle
A school report card, diploma, or other proof of enrollment
Enrollment in a qualifying driver's education course
Learner's Permit Restrictions in Texas
Once you've met the requirements for your permit, you can get behind the wheel — with significant restrictions.
The goal of the permit is to allow you to practice driving with an adult. Therefore, you must have a licensed adult 21 years or older in the front passenger seat while driving.
Teens in Texas also face stricter distracted driving rules than adults with a full license. You're not allowed to use any type of wireless device or cell phone while driving — even if it's hands-free. The only exception is for an emergency. If caught, you could have your permit suspended, which will delay when you can apply for your regular license.
You're also required to have the learner's permit for at least six months before you can apply for a driver's license. The only exception to this is if you turn 18 while you're still in the learner's permit phase. If your permit is suspended for any reason before you're 18, then you'll have extra days tacked on to the six-month period.
Requirements for a Texas Provisional License
When you've gotten your fill of practice with an adult, you're ready to move up to the Provisional License. To be eligible, you need to:
Have had your Learner License for at least six months
Be 16 or 17 years old
Complete the full driver's education course, including behind-the-wheel training
Complete the Impact Texas Teen Driver Program
Pass your road test
When you complete these steps, you will have your Provisional License.
Provisional License Restrictions in Texas
This Provisional License offers you more freedom than a permit but still comes with important restrictions. You can't:
Drive with more than one passenger under age 21, unless the passengers are family members.
Drive between midnight and 5 a.m., unless it's an emergency or required for school or work.
Use a cell phone or other wireless device, unless it's an emergency. This restriction also applies to hands-free devices.
When you turn 18, your Provisional License expires and you'll to need get a standard license from the DMV.
Get Started With Your Texas Learner's Permit
Getting a learner's permit is the first step to getting your full Texas driver's license. If you're between 15 and 17 and applying for your permit, check out Aceable's online driver's ed for teens. It helps you avoid a trip to the Texas DPS and get the classroom hours you need when it fits into your schedule.
Updated 05/24/23