DMV Tx – Teen Driver Requirements: Information on specific requirements for teen drivers in Texas, including the provisional license program and applicable restrictions.
Teen drivers in Texas must follow the graduated driver license (GDL) program. This program consists of a learner’s permit phase, an intermediate phase, and a full driver’s license phase.
Teen drivers are subject to various restrictions, such as curfew hours, passenger limitations, and mandatory driver education and training. The restrictions gradually ease as they progress through the program.
Here’s the information about teen driver requirements in Texas, including the provisional license program and applicable restrictions:
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Learner’s License:
- Age Requirement: In Texas, teens can apply for a learner’s license at the age of 15.
- Parental Consent: A parent or guardian’s consent is required for teens under 18 years old to obtain a learner’s license.
- Driver Education Course: Teens must complete a state-approved driver education course, which consists of classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training.
- Knowledge and Vision Tests: Teens need to pass a written knowledge test and a vision test to obtain a learner’s license.
- Restrictions: With a learner’s license, teens can only drive while accompanied by a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old and occupies the front passenger seat.
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Provisional License:
- Age Requirement: Teens can apply for a provisional license in Texas at the age of 16.
- Learner’s License Duration: Teens must hold a learner’s license for at least six months before applying for a provisional license.
- Driving Hours: During the first 12 months of holding a provisional license, teens are prohibited from driving between midnight and 5:00 a.m., unless it’s for employment, school-related activities, or with a licensed adult.
- Passenger Restrictions: For the first 12 months, teens with a provisional license are not allowed to have more than one passenger under the age of 21 who is not a family member unless accompanied by a licensed adult.
- Driver Education and Skills Test: Teens must complete a driver education course and pass a driving skills test to obtain a provisional license.
- Graduated Driver License Program: Texas follows a Graduated Driver License (GDL) program, which gradually eases restrictions as teens gain more driving experience.
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Full Driver’s License:
- Age Requirement: Teens can obtain a full, unrestricted driver’s license in Texas at the age of 18.
- Completion of Provisional License Period: Teens must successfully complete the provisional license period, including complying with all restrictions and holding the provisional license for the required duration.
It’s important for teen drivers and their parents or guardians to understand and adhere to the specific requirements and restrictions set by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to ensure safe and responsible driving.
Additional details on the teen driver requirements, driver education courses, and the GDL program can be found on the Texas DPS website.
Please note that specific requirements and regulations for teen drivers may vary in Texas. It’s recommended to visit the official website of the Texas DPS or contact your local DPS office for the most current and accurate information regarding teen driver requirements, the provisional license program, and applicable restrictions.