In a nutshell:
If you’re wondering whether you can teach your teen to drive in Texas, the answer is: yes—if you qualify! Most parents do, and this option can be a flexible, affordable, and convenient way to meet Texas driver education requirements. Here's a quick breakdown of what to expect and how to know if PTDE is right for your family.
? Student Requirements
To be eligible for Parent Taught Driver Education, your teen must:
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Be at least 14 years old to start the course
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Be at least 15 years old to apply for a Learner's License
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Be Currently enrolled in school (public, private, charter, or homeschool, all qualify)
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Complete behind-the-wheel instruction with an eligible instructor (see below)
? Instructor Requirements
In Texas, parents or guardians can typically teach their teen, but they must meet Texas state qualifications. Eligible instructors include:
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Parent or step-parent
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Grandparent or step-grandparent
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Foster parent
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Legal guardian
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An individual designated by the parent, guardian, or judge
Note: If you're designating someone else, they must:
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Be at least 25 years old
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Not charge a fee for the instruction
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Have at least 7 years of driving experience
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Have held a valid driver's license for the past 3 consecutive years (from any state)
? Instructor Disqualifications
You cannot be a parent instructor if you have:
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A conviction (even with probation) for criminally negligent homicide
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A sentence (even with probation) for DWI in the past 7 years
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Had your license suspended, revoked, or forfeited due to traffic violations in the past 3 years
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6 or more points on your current driving record
?? Can I Switch from a Driving School to Parent Taught Driver's Ed?
Absolutely—but there are a few key points to keep in mind:
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You must complete the full Parent Taught Drivers Ed course.
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If your teen already has a Texas Learner's License, they do not need to restart their 6-month requirement.
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You must still meet all eligibility rules for PTDE.
? Final Takeaways for Parents
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You can teach your teen to drive, as long as you meet the state’s instructor requirements.
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Your teen must be at least 14 to start the course and 15 to get their Learner's License.
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If you're switching from a traditional driving school, you can continue where you left off, but you must complete the full PTDE course.
?? Pro Tip: Before beginning, make sure to order the official Parent Taught Driver Education Packet from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). This packet is required by law and confirms your eligibility.
Need help or want to get started?
Explore our Texas-approved online PTDE course today—it’s easy to follow, self-paced, and fully mobile-friendly.