Obtaining a driver’s license is a significant milestone for teenagers in Texas. It represents independence, responsibility, and the first step toward adulthood. But before you can get behind the wheel legally, you’ll need to take driver’s education. In Texas, there are several methods and two main modes of completing driver’s ed, and choosing the right one can make all the difference. This article will explain the options, answer common questions, and guide you through the process.
The Four Main Driver’s Ed Options in Texas
When it comes to taking driver’s ed in Texas, there are four primary methods. Each one is state-approved and can meet the requirements for getting a learner’s permit or a driver’s license.
1. Traditional Classroom Course
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Who: Teens and adults who prefer in-person learning.
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What: Offered by certified driving schools across Texas. You attend classroom sessions led by a licensed instructor.
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When: Typically evenings or weekends, following a set schedule.
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Where: At a local driving school’s classroom facility.
This option is great if you thrive in structured settings with face-to-face interaction.
2. Online Courses
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Who: Teens and adults who want a more flexible, self-paced program.
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What: State-certified online driver education programs, available 24/7.
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When: Anytime—study at your own pace from home.
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Where: Accessible from any device with internet.
This is a popular choice for today’s busy families and tech-savvy teens. If you’ve wondered “can you take drivers ed online in Texas?” the answer is yes.
3. Parent-Taught Driver Education (PTDE)
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Who: Teens under 18 whose parents or guardians hold a valid, unexpired Texas driver’s license.
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What: Parents act as the driving instructor using a state-approved PTDE program.
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When: Parents and teens decide on the schedule.
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Where: At home (classroom portion) and on the road with a parent instructor.
This option gives families control, but it requires commitment from the parent.
4. Public School Driver Education
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Who: Teens whose schools still offer driver’s ed programs.
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What: Instruction provided by school staff or contracted driving instructors.
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When: Often during the school year or summer session.
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Where: At the high school and designated driving areas.
Not all schools offer this option anymore, so check with your district.
The Two Main Modes: Concurrent vs. Block
Regardless of whether you choose a traditional classroom, an online course, or parent-taught driver’s ed, Texas allows for two different modes of instruction: Concurrent and Block.
Concurrent Method
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Who: Teens who want to get their learner’s permit as quickly as possible. While adults can also pursue a learner’s permit, this method is most common among teenagers.
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What: After completing the first 6 hours of classroom instruction, you’re eligible to take the written knowledge test.
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When: Once you pass the written test, you can apply for your learner’s permit at age 15 or older. Remember: you may begin the classroom phase at 14, but you cannot get your permit until 15.
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Where: Testing is typically done online (if the course provides it) or at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office.
With concurrent learning, you’ll complete the rest of your classroom hours while simultaneously starting behind-the-wheel training.
Block Method
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Who: Teens and adults who prefer to learn all the theory before driving.
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What: You complete the entire classroom phase first—either in person or online.
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When: You can only apply for a learner's permit after completing all classroom hours and passing the written test.
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Where: Learner’s permit applications happen at a DPS office.
This method delays driving practice but ensures you’ve covered all the rules and regulations before getting behind the wheel.
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Driver’s Ed
Let’s answer the most common questions teens and parents search when looking into driver’s education in Texas.
1. When can you take driver's ed in Texas?
You can start the classroom portion of driver’s ed at 14 years old. However, you must be at least 15 to apply for your learner’s permit.
2. At what age can you take driver's ed in Texas?
You can begin classroom training at 14, but to take the written test and apply for your learner’s permit, you must be 15.
3. Can you take driver's ed online in Texas?
Yes, Texas approves online driver education programs. These courses are flexible, engaging, and available 24/7.
4. What is the difference between the concurrent and block methods of taking this course?
5. How long does online driver's ed take in Texas?
The required classroom phase is 32 hours (or 24 hours for some state-approved instructor-led programs). Behind-the-wheel requires additional hours, including night driving. With online courses, you can study at your own pace.
6. Can you take driver's ed at age 14 in Texas?
Yes, you can start the classroom portion at 14. But you cannot take the written test or apply for a learner’s permit until 15.
7. Can I take a self-taught class with no parental permission at first?
Yes! You don’t need parental involvement until after the first 6 hours and passing the written test. Virtual Drivers Ed offers a modern, fun, interactive self-taught online course—Texas Teen Learner’s Permit (STDE)—that is only six hours long, doesn’t require a parent for the learner’s permit section, and lets you get started right away.
Other Common “Take” Questions
Do you have to take driver's ed in Texas at 18?
Yes, if you are 18–24 years old, you must complete a 6-hour adult driver education course to apply for a license.
Do adults in Texas have to take driver's education?
Yes, adults aged 18–24 are required to take a state-approved adult driver's ed course. Adults 25+ are not required, but often take it to prepare for the DPS exam.
When can you take driver's ed in Texas?
You can start the classroom part at 14 and get your permit at 15.
Can you take driver's ed online in Texas?
Yes, approved online providers make this possible.
Do you have to take driver's ed at all in Texas?
Yes, if you are under 25, you are required to take driver education. Over 25, it is optional.
What states require you to take driver's ed?
Most states require some form of driver education for teens, but the requirements vary. Texas has one of the more structured systems.
What is the minimum age requirement to take driver's education in Texas?
You can start at 14 years old (classroom only), apply for a permit at 15, and move toward a full license after holding your permit for at least 6 months.
Choosing the Best Program for You
To make it easier, we’ve created a simple graphic to help you determine which course best fits your needs:
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STDE (Self-Taught Driver’s Ed): Perfect for teens who want to get their learner’s permit quickly, without waiting for parent involvement in the first phase.
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PTDE (Parent-Taught Driver’s Ed): Great for families who want to take charge of both classroom and behind-the-wheel learning.
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ITDE (Instructor-Taught Driver’s Ed): For those who want certified instructors (online or in person) leading the way with professional support.
Final Thoughts
Driver’s education in Texas is more flexible than ever. Whether you take a traditional class, an online program, a parent-taught option, or a school-based course, you’ll need to decide whether to follow the concurrent method (permit after 6 hours) or the block method (permit after finishing all classroom hours).
Teens often search: “When can you take driver's ed in Texas?” or “Can you take driver's ed online in Texas?” The answers are simple: you can start at 14, obtain your permit at 15, and yes, online courses are available and state-approved.
If you’re ready to begin, our Texas Teen Learner’s Permit (STDE) course makes it fast and easy to get started. It’s fun, interactive, only six hours long, and best of all, you don’t need a parent until after you’ve passed your first phase. Start today and take your first step toward independence.