Getting your Texas driver’s license requires more than just passing tests—you need the proper paperwork. This guide explains every form you’ll encounter during the driver education and licensing process, helping you arrive at DPS fully prepared with all required documentation.
Navigating driver’s ed forms can feel overwhelming, especially when different forms apply to other age groups and situations. Understanding which documents you need prevents delays and frustration during your DPS visit.
Virtual Drive of Texas has guided thousands of Texas families through the licensing process since 2004. Our TDLR-approved courses include all necessary certificates, and our Texas-based support team helps students gather the correct documentation for their specific situation.
This guide covers every essential form, explains who needs what, and ensures you’re ready for a successful DPS appointment.
What Are Texas Driver’s Ed Forms?
Texas driver’s ed forms are official documents that prove course completion, verify identity, and establish eligibility for your learner’s permit or driver’s license. These forms create a documented path from enrollment through licensing, ensuring every driver meets state requirements.
The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) oversees driver education courses and approves the certificates issued upon completion. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) accepts these certificates and processes license applications using standardized forms that verify your personal information.
Form requirements differ based on age. Teens aged 14-17 need specific documents, including verification of school enrollment, parent signatures, and driving logs. Adults aged 18-24 require their Adult Driver Education certificate and appropriate application forms. Adults 25 and older may need fewer forms but must still provide identity and residency documentation.
Understanding which driver’s license forms apply to your situation prevents wasted trips and ensures efficient processing at your DPS appointment.
Texas Driver’s Ed Forms Every Applicant Needs
Several forms apply to most Texas license applicants regardless of age. Understanding these common forms helps you prepare for your DPS visit.
Form DL-14A serves teen applicants under 18 and requires parent or guardian signatures and additional verification. Form DL-14B applies to adult applicants 18 and older with streamlined requirements. Choosing the correct registration form based on your age prevents processing delays.
The ADE-1317 certificate proves completion of Adult Driver Education for applicants aged 18-24. Virtual Drive provides an instant download of this certificate upon completion of the course. The DE-964 certificate verifies completion of Parent-Taught Driver Education for teens and is also available for immediate download through Virtual Drive’s Ed.
Additional documentation includes proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), Social Security verification, two documents proving Texas residency, and the Verification of Enrollment (VOE) form for students under 18 attending school. Gather these documents before your appointment for smooth processing.
Complete these forms before your DPS appointment whenever possible. Gather required signatures, ensure all fields are filled accurately, and verify that certificates display correct personal information. Arriving with completed paperwork significantly reduces your time at DPS.
Parent-Taught Driver Education Forms
The Parent-Taught Driver Education program requires specific documentation beyond standard application forms. Parents acting as instructors must complete designation forms and maintain accurate records throughout the training process.
The DE-964 certificate confirms completion of classroom instruction through your TDLR-approved driver education course provider. Virtual Drive’s Parent-Taught course (TDLR #107) includes this certificate, available for instant download upon passing the written test.
Driving logs document the required 44 hours of supervised driving practice, including at least 10 hours of nighttime driving. Record each session with date, time, duration, and skills practiced. These logs serve as official proof of completed behind-the-wheel training and must be presented during your DPS road test appointment.
The PTDE packet includes parent-instructor designation forms that establish who supervised the teen driver’s practice. Parents must meet eligibility requirements, including holding a valid license for at least three years with an acceptable driver record. Virtual Drive provides comprehensive guidance on all PTDE packet requirements.
Adult Driver (18-24) Required Forms
Adults aged 18-24 applying for their first Texas license must provide specific documentation proving completion of driver education. State law requires this age group to complete a 6-hour TDLR-approved course before obtaining a permit.
The ADE-1317 certificate is mandatory for all first-time drivers in this age range. Virtual Drive’s Adult Driver’s Education course (TDLR #C2636) includes this certificate with instant download upon completion—no extra fees or waiting periods.
Complete Form DL-14B as your adult application. This form requires less parental involvement than teen applications but still needs accurate personal information, including proof of identity, Social Security number, and Texas residency.
Prepare a DPS visit checklist that includes your ADE-1317 certificate, primary identification, such as a birth certificate or passport, Social Security card, two documents proving Texas residency, and applicable fees. Having your driver training school documentation organized ensures efficient processing and reduces wait times.
How to Get and Manage Driver’s Ed Certificates
Online course completion certificates provide official proof of driver education for DPS. Understanding how these certificates work helps you manage this essential documentation.
Virtual Drive of Texas provides instant certificate downloads upon course completion through our online services. Log in to your account, access your completed course, and download your DE-964 or ADE-1317 certificate immediately. No extra fees apply, and no waiting period delays your DPS visit.
Print your certificate for your DPS appointment and keep a digital backup—store certificates safely with other essential documents. DPS may reject altered, damaged, or expired certificates, so maintain clean copies and consider laminating your printed version for protection.
If you lose your certificate, Virtual Drive maintains records of all completions. Contact our Texas-based support team for assistance retrieving your documentation. This information is provided for informational purposes and to help you maintain proper records throughout the licensing process.
Common Mistakes and Outdated Forms to Avoid
Several common errors delay DPS appointments and require return visits. Avoiding these mistakes saves time and frustration during your path to licensing.
Confusing DL-14A and DL-14B is a frequent problem. Remember: DL-14A is for applicants under 18, while DL-14B is for adults 18 and older. Using the wrong form requires starting over with correct documentation.
Missing signatures cause many rejections. Teen applications require parent or guardian signatures in specific locations. Verify all signature fields before leaving home. Some forms require notarization under certain circumstances—check current requirements with DPS or your course provider.
Texas periodically updates form requirements. Verify you’re using current versions by checking the DPS website or contacting Virtual Drive’s support team. Working with a trusted driving school ensures you receive accurate, up-to-date guidance on all required documentation.
Conclusion
Having the correct driver’s ed forms prevents DPS delays and ensures a smooth licensing process. Whether you’re a teen driver completing Parent-Taught Driver Education, an adult fulfilling the 18-24 age requirement, or a first-time licensed driver at any age, proper documentation is essential.
Virtual Drive of Texas simplifies the forms process by including all required certificates with instant download upon course completion. Our Texas-based support team helps you understand exactly which forms you need for your specific situation.
Ready to complete your driver education course and receive your certificate? Choose the course that fits your age and start your path to licensing today.
Get Started with Virtual Drive of Texas
Teens Ages 14-17:
Enroll in Parent-Taught Driver’s Ed – Complete your 24-hour course, receive your DE-964 certificate instantly, and get full parent instructor materials. Just $59.95 (regularly $99.95).
Enroll in Self-Taught Driver’s Ed – Start by earning your Learner’s Permit online through Virtual Driver’s Ed—then choose who you want for your in-car driving lessons. This 6-hour permit course is the perfect first step toward driving independently.
Adults Ages 18-24:
Enroll in Adult Driver’s Education – Complete your required 6-hour course, receive your ADE-1317 certificate instantly, and skip the written test at DPS. Available in English and Spanish. Just $38.00 (regularly $78.00).
Essential Resources:
- Texas Driver Education Requirements
- Texas Learner’s Permit Guide
- Take Our Free DPS Practice Test
- Find Your Local DPS Office
- Download the Texas Driver’s Handbook
Questions About Required Forms? Contact our Texas-based support team at (833) 3-VDRIVE. We’ll help you identify precisely which forms and documents you need for your DPS visit.
