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Parent Taught Driver's Ed in Texas

State-Approved 24-Hour Course | Only $59.95

Get your learner’s permit and Texas driver’s license the easy way—100% online, self-paced, and DPS/TDLR - approved. Skip the line, learn and test online.

Fully updated to meet TDLR’s new 24-hour rule

Fast, easy, and engaging lessons

Instant Certificate of Completion (DEE-964)

Trusted by Texas families for over 20 years

Mobile-Friendly & Works on All Devices

Regular 99.95

SPECIAL $59.95

Proud father with son who just got his Texas driver’s license

Don’t waste time — get your permit faster and start driving sooner.
Finish quick and strong with Virtual Drive.

New 24-Hour State Rule. Don't take 32 hours if you don't have to.

• 24 Hours of State Required Instruction

• In-Car Training - 44 Hours with Parent or Guardian

• DPS Written Test Included - Pass Guaranteed

In December 2024, the Texas Legislature officially reduced the required classroom hours for teen driver education from 32 to just 24 hours. At Virtual Drive, we were among the first to fully adapt our course to meet the new standard — without sacrificing the safety, quality, or legal compliance you expect

Our newly streamlined course helps students finish faster while still gaining the knowledge and skills needed to stay safe on Texas roads.

Steps To Licensing For Texas Teens

Parent-Taught Drivers Education (PTDE)

Parent-Taught Driver Education allows Texas families to guide their teens through the entire driver training process using TDLR-approved curriculum. This comprehensive approach combines online classroom instruction with hands-on driving practice supervised by parents, resulting in confident, well-prepared drivers.

Texas established the Parent-Taught program to give families flexibility and involvement in their teen’s driver education. Parents serve as the primary instructors, working through structured coursework and behind-the-wheel training at a pace that fits their family’s schedule.

Virtual Drive of Texas has supported Texas families through the Parent-Taught program since 2004. Our TDLR-approved course (Course #107) provides everything parents and teens need: engaging online instruction, complete parent-teaching materials, driving logs, and an instant certificate download upon completion.

This guide explains how Parent-Taught Driver’s Ed works, what requirements apply, and how to get started with your teen’s driver education journey.

What Is Parent-Taught Driver’s Ed?

 

  • Parent-Taught Driver Education is a Texas-approved program that allows parents or legal guardians to serve as their teen’s driving instructor. Rather than enrolling in a traditional driving school, families complete driver education together using a state-approved online curriculum and structured behind-the-wheel training.

  • The program includes two essential components: 24 hours of classroom instruction covering traffic laws, road signs, defensive driving techniques, and Texas-specific regulations, plus 44 hours of supervised driving practice with the parent instructor. This combination ensures teen drivers receive comprehensive knowledge and practical experience before licensing.

  • Texas law recognizes Parent-Taught Driver Education as equivalent to instructor-led courses offered by driver education schools. Teens who complete TDLR-approved Parent-Taught programs receive the same DE-964 certificate and meet identical licensing requirements as those who attend traditional driver training schools.

  • The Parent-Taught option appeals to families who want direct involvement in their teen’s driver training, flexible scheduling around school and activities, and cost-effective education without sacrificing quality or state approval.

Parent-Taught Driver’s Ed Requirements

 

Texas establishes specific requirements for both parent (or approved guardian) instructors and teen students participating in the Parent-Taught program. Meeting these requirements ensures your teen’s training qualifies for licensing.

Teen Student Requirements:

Teens must be at least 14 and a half years old to begin coursework, though they cannot apply for their instruction permit until age 15. Students complete 24 hours of online classroom instruction covering all state-required topics, then pass the integrated written test to receive their DE-964 certificate.

The supervised driving component requires 44 hours of behind-the-wheel practice with the parent instructor, including at least 10 hours of nighttime driving. Teens must hold their learner’s permit for at least 6 months before qualifying for a provisional license at age 16.

Parent Instructor Requirements:

Parents serving as instructors must hold a valid driver’s license for at least three years before beginning the program. Texas requires an acceptable driving record, with no DWI convictions within the past seven years or license suspensions within the past three years.

The parent instructor must be the teen’s parent, stepparent, grandparent, step-grandparent, foster parent, or legal guardian. This ensures proper supervision and accountability throughout the driver education course and behind-the-wheel training.

 

How the Parent-Taught Program Works

The Parent-Taught program follows a structured path from enrollment through licensing. Understanding each phase helps families plan effectively and complete requirements efficiently.

Phase 1: Online Classroom Instruction

Teens complete 24 hours of interactive online coursework covering Texas traffic laws, highway safety, road signs, right-of-way rules, and defensive driving techniques. Virtual Drive’s self-paced format allows students to log in and out at their convenience, fitting coursework around school, sports, and other activities.

The course includes engaging videos, interactive modules, and regular quizzes that reinforce key concepts. Upon completing the classroom portion and passing the written driving test, students receive their DE-964 certificate through instant download.

Phase 2: Learner’s Permit

After completing at least the first six hours of instruction and reaching age 15, teens can apply for their learner’s permit at DPS. Bring the DE-964 certificate, proof of identity, proof of residency, and required fees. The permit allows supervised driving with the parent instructor.

Phase 3: Behind-the-Wheel Training

Parents supervise 44 hours of driving practice using structured materials provided by Virtual Drive. The parent’s guide includes lesson plans, skill progressions, and safety checklists that make teaching systematic and practical. Maintain accurate driving logs documenting each session’s date, time, duration, and skills practiced.

Phase 4: Licensing

At age 16, after holding the permit for six months and completing all requirements, teens take their road test at DPS. Passing the test earns their provisional driver license with certain restrictions that lift at age 18.

 

What’s Included in Virtual Drive’s Parent-Taught Course

Virtual Drive’s Parent-Taught Driver Education course provides comprehensive resources for both teens and parent instructors. Everything you need is included with no hidden fees or additional charges.

For Teen Students:

The 24-hour online curriculum features engaging video content, interactive lessons, and regular knowledge checks covering all state-required topics. The course includes the DPS written test with three attempts, Impact Texas Teen Drivers (ITTD) certification, and instant DE-964 certificate download upon completion.

Students access the course on any device—smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer. The self-paced format allows progress at your own speed, with the ability to review challenging material as many times as needed.

For Parent Instructors:

Virtual Drive provides complete in-car training materials including a structured parent’s guide, lesson plans for all 44 hours of supervised driving, practice logs for tracking sessions, and safety checklists for each driving skill. These resources transform parents into effective instructors without prior teaching experience.

The parent materials break down complex driving skills into manageable lessons, progressing from basic vehicle control through highway driving and challenging situations. Clear guidance helps parents address common teen driver mistakes and build safe habits from the start.

 

Parent-Taught vs. Instructor-Led Driver’s Ed

Texas families can choose between Parent-Taught and Instructor-Taught driver education. Both meet state requirements, but each offers distinct advantages depending on family circumstances.

Parent-Taught Advantages:

The Parent-Taught approach offers maximum flexibility for busy families. Complete coursework and driving practice around school schedules, sports seasons, and family commitments rather than fixed class times. Parents control the pace, spending extra time on challenging skills or advancing quickly when teens demonstrate mastery.

Cost savings make Parent-Taught education attractive for budget-conscious families. Virtual Drive’s Parent-Taught course costs $59.95 compared to traditional driving schools that often charge $300-500 or more.

Direct parental involvement strengthens family relationships and allows parents to instill their values about responsible driving. Parents observe their teen’s progress firsthand and address concerns immediately rather than relying on instructor reports.

Instructor-Taught Advantages:

Some families prefer professional instruction when parents feel uncomfortable teaching driving skills or lack time for the 44-hour commitment. Virtual Drive’s Instructor-Led option provides certified instructor narration throughout all 24 hours of content while maintaining online flexibility.

Instructor-taught courses appeal to teens who respond better to formal educational structure or parents who want professional oversight of the teaching process.

Both Options Meet Identical Requirements:

Whether Parent-Taught or Instructor-Taught, both paths satisfy Texas licensing requirements equally. DPS accepts certificates from either program, and insurance companies treat both as equivalent driver education completions.

 

Tips for Successful Parent-Taught Driver’s Ed

Parents who approach the program systematically help their teens become safer, more confident drivers. These strategies maximize success throughout the driver education experience.

Create a Consistent Schedule:

Establish regular times for both online coursework and driving practice. Consistent scheduling builds momentum and prevents procrastination. Many families find success with short daily sessions rather than marathon weekend attempts.

Start in Low-Pressure Environments:

Begin behind-the-wheel practice in empty parking lots before progressing to residential streets, then busier roads. This gradual progression builds confidence without overwhelming new drivers. Use Virtual Drive’s lesson progression guide for structured skill development.

Stay Patient and Positive:

Learning to drive creates stress for both teens and parents. Maintain calm, constructive feedback rather than reactive criticism. Take breaks when frustration builds, and celebrate progress along the way. Your attitude shapes your teen’s driving confidence.

Document Everything:

Maintain accurate driving logs from the first session. Record dates, times, conditions, and skills practiced. Complete documentation prevents problems at DPS and demonstrates thorough preparation.

Use All Available Resources:

Review the Texas Driver’s Handbook alongside Virtual Drive’s course materials. Take advantage of practice tests to identify areas needing additional study. Contact Virtual Drive’s support team with questions rather than guessing at requirements.

 

Common Questions About Parent-Taught Driver’s Ed

Can any parent teach driver’s ed in Texas? Parents must hold a valid license for at least 3 years and have an acceptable driving record. DWI convictions within seven years or license suspensions within three years disqualify parents from serving as instructors.

How long does the Parent-Taught program take? Timeline varies by family. The 24-hour online course can be completed in weeks or spread over months. The six-month permit holding period and 44 hours of driving practice establish minimum timelines. Most families complete the entire process in 6-12 months.

Do Insurance companies accept parent-taught driver’s ed? Yes, insurance companies recognize TDLR-approved Parent-Taught education equally with instructor-led courses. Many insurers offer good student and driver education discounts regardless of which program type students complete.

What if I started at another provider? Texas allows transfer between TDLR-approved providers under certain circumstances. Contact Virtual Drive’s support team to discuss your situation and options for continuing your driver education.

Do homeschooled teens qualify for Parent-Taught driver’s ed? Absolutely. The Parent-Taught program works especially well for homeschool families, integrating naturally with flexible homeschool schedules and family-directed education philosophy.

 

Conclusion

Parent-Taught Driver Education empowers Texas families to guide their teens through comprehensive driver training while maintaining flexibility and direct involvement. The program meets all state requirements while offering significant advantages in cost, scheduling, and family engagement.

Virtual Drive of Texas provides everything you need for successful Parent-Taught driver education: TDLR-approved online curriculum, complete parent instructor materials, integrated testing, and instant certificate download. Our 98% first-time pass rate reflects the quality preparation families receive through our program.

Ready to start teaching your teen to drive? Enroll in Virtual Drive’s Parent-Taught Driver Education course and begin your family’s path to safe, confident driving.

 

 

Get Started with Virtual Drive of Texas

Enroll in Parent-Taught Driver’s Ed – Complete your 24-hour course with engaging online content, receive comprehensive parent instructor materials, and download your DE-964 certificate instantly. Just $59.95 (regularly $99.95).

Choose Instructor-Taught Driver’s Ed – Get professional instructor narration throughout your 24-hour course with structured guidance and expert teaching. Just $99.95 (regularly $119.94).

Essential Resources:

Questions About Parent-Taught Driver’s Ed? Contact our Texas-based support team at (833) 3-VDRIVE. We’ve helped thousands of Texas families complete Parent-Taught driver education, and we’re here to guide you through every step.

PARENT-TAUGHT DRIVERS EDUCATION (PTDE)

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$99.00   $59.99

Frequently Asked Questions about Drivers Ed for Teens In Texas

Teen Drivers Ed & Parent Participation

  • How Does Parent-Taught Driver’s Education Work?

    Texas Parent-Taught Driver’s Education : A Stress-Free Guide to Your Teen’s License

    With Virtual Drive’s TDLR/DPS-approved Parent-Taught Driver’s Ed course, you can feel confident knowing, “We’ve got this!” From your first step of state registration to receiving your Texas driver’s license, our course provides a smooth, stress-free experience. This approach allows a certified online course to teach your teen, while you supervise and guide their hands-on practice.

    Here’s how it works:

    1. Enroll in the Course
      Begin with Virtual Drive’s TDLR-approved Parent-Taught Driver’s Ed course (#107), designed for teens aged 14-17. Complete the DL-92 form and submit it to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) to participate in the program.
    2. Study the Online Course
      The first six hours of our course focus on preparing for the DPS written test, which you can take online, saving a trip to the DPS office!
    3. Apply for the Learner’s Permit
      After completing the first six hours and passing the DPS test, print your certificate, gather your identification (per our checklist), and apply for your Texas learner’s license at the DPS office.
    4. Begin Behind-the-Wheel Lessons
      With a learner’s permit, teens start in-car driving lessons supervised by a parent or guardian. Teens also continue online course modules until all requirements are completed.
    5. Complete the Impact Texas Young Drivers (ITYD) Course
      All new drivers under 24 must complete the free ITYD course after driver’s ed, a requirement before taking the DPS road test.
    6. Apply for Your Texas Driver’s License
      At 16, after finishing the parent-taught course and ITYD, apply for your Texas driver’s license. Remember to make copies of your DE-964 certificate for insurance discounts and personal records.

    Our program prioritizes ease and clarity to ensure you’re well-prepared and avoid surprises at the DPS. Choose Virtual Drive to experience a Texas driver’s ed program focused on simplicity and support.

  • How Long is Texas Driver’s Education for Teens?

    To complete drivers ed in Texas, teens under the age of 18 must complete their course before their 18th birthday.  This includes 24 hours of online driver education training and 44 hours of behind the wheel driver training with a designated parent or legal guardian.  Students must have held their Texas learners license for at least six months, complete the Texas IMPACT training and pass the DPS road test.

  • What Age Can My Teen Begin the Parent-Taught Driver’s Ed Course?

    Students must be at least 14 years old to start the Texas Parent-Taught Driver’s Ed course. However, a learner’s permit won’t be issued until the student is at least 15. Teens under 18 are required to complete an approved driver education course before obtaining a Texas provisional driver’s license .

  • What is the DE-964 Certificate?

    The DE-964 is the driver education certificate issued by the driving school upon completion of parent-taught driver’s ed in Texas. This certificate is essential—make copies for your records. A DE-964 copy must be presented at the DPS office when applying for a Texas provisional driver’s license.

  • How Many Hours Are Required for Parent-Taught Driver Education?

    Teens aged 14-17 must complete 24 hours of online (or classroom) training and 44 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction. Plus a state required 2 Hour “Impact Texas” course.

  • How Long Does the Parent-Taught Course Take to Complete?

    The duration of the Texas parent-taught driver’s ed course depends on the schedules of both the teen and the parent instructor. Most students finish in about four months, though some complete it in as little as two months, while others take six months or more.

    This self-paced course allows teens to progress as their time permits. Many teens choose to study an hour or two per day, while others with busy schedules spread it out over time.

    The behind-the-wheel instruction, led by the parent or legal guardian, is also flexible with no daily requirement. Parents often set aside a few evenings or weekends for these lessons. Find a schedule that works for you and take it step by step!

  • How Do We Log Behind-the-Wheel Driving Time?

    The Parent-Taught Driver’s Ed Program Guide from TDLR includes a behind-the-wheel instruction log sheet . Parents sign off on each objective as lessons are completed. This log is essential and must be submitted to the DPS when applying for a provisional driver’s license.

  • What is My Role as a Teen Driver’s Ed Student?

    As an online driver’s ed student in Texas, your role is to engage actively in the learning process to build the knowledge and skills for safe, responsible driving. Key aspects of your role include:

    1. Self-Motivation: Stay committed to completing the course by setting study goals and dedicating time to finish each module.
    2. Active Participation: Engage with lessons, watch videos, and complete quizzes to reinforce essential driving concepts.
    3. Follow Guidelines and Deadlines: Adhere to course guidelines, complete modules on time, and follow instructions for assessments.
    4. Seek Clarifications: Ask questions if needed, using available resources to fully understand driving laws and safety practices.
    5. Practice Responsible Online Behavior: Maintain professionalism in interactions with course materials and instructors.
    6. Prepare for Exams: Take assessments seriously by reviewing content, practicing sample questions, and seeking help if necessary.
    7. Apply Knowledge in Real Life: Start relating what you learn to real-world driving scenarios, focusing on responsible driving behaviors.
  • What Driving Restrictions Do Teenagers Have in Texas?

    Driving restrictions in Texas vary based on age and circumstances. For drivers under 18, common restrictions include limits on cell phone use, seat belt laws, and strict rules against alcohol and drug use. Additional restrictions may apply for special medical conditions and insurance requirements. Since specific rules can vary, it’s essential for drivers to review the Texas Transportation Code and any local ordinances that may apply. For more details, refer to the Texas Driver License Endorsements and Restrictions. 

  • How Do I Start Texas Online Driver’s Ed as a Teen?

    Starting online driver’s ed in Texas as a teen involves these steps:

    1. Meet Eligibility Requirements: You must be at least 14 to start the classroom portion of driver’s ed.
    2. Choose an Approved Provider: Select a TDLR-approved online driver’s ed provider. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) lists approved providers on their website.
    3. Register and Enroll: Sign up for the Parent-Taught Course, entering details l ike your name, birthdate, and contact information.
    4. Complete the Course: Log in and study modules on traffic laws, road signs, safe driving, and more.
    5. Pass the Final Exam: After completing coursework, take a final exam covering what you’ve learned.
    6. Receive Completion Certificate: Upon passing, you’ll receive a certificate required to apply for your Texas learner’s permit.
    7. Apply for a Learner’s Permit: Visit your local DPS office with your certificate and required ID documents to apply.

    These steps will help you start and complete Texas online driver’s ed and move toward getting your license. Check with the course provider and Texas DPS for any additional requirements.

  • What Should I Do If I Started My Course Before Receiving My PTDE Packet?

    The Texas Parent-Taught Driver’s Education (PTDE) packet confirms that the parent who submitted the (DL-92) request has been approved by the state. Once processed, Texas will send the PTDE packet and update the DPS system with this information. Note that the DPS will only accept logged parent-taught hours from the approval date (the day you receive the packet). Any hours logged before receiving the PTDE packet won’t be accepted.

    Most online driver’s ed courses allow students to revisit completed coursework, and logged hours can be adjusted as needed. This flexibility helps you align your schedule with the state’s requirements.

  • What Are My Responsibilities as an Online Parent-Taught Driving Instructor for My Teen?

    If you’ve chosen online parent-taught driver’s ed, your role is straightforward. A quality course will guide you and your teen through the required 32 hours of classroom instruction, leaving you to simply monitor progress and sign off on course completion.

    As the in-car instructor, you’ll supervise 7 hours of in-car lessons, 7 hours of behind-the-wheel practice, and an additional 30 hours of driving experience, including 10 nighttime hours. A well-structured course provides prompts and guidance to help you through each step.

    Once completed, bring the required forms to the Texas driver’s license office, sign off on the paperwork, and submit it. You’ll then wait as your teen takes the final driving test to earn their license.

  • What If I Prefer Someone Else to Teach My Teen Behind the Wheel?

    Now, parents or guardians who prefer not to teach behind-the-wheel (BTW) skills can still enjoy the flexibility of online learning. A recent Texas law allows individuals over 25 with a valid driver’s license—such as a sibling, cousin, or family friend—to conduct BTW instruction for teens. Alternatively, commercial driving schools work with online providers to offer a hybrid approach, combining 32 hours of online classroom instruction with professional in-car training.

    This hybrid model merges the benefits of parent-taught and commercial drivers ed, providing an affordable and flexible option for families who prefer not to handle the BTW instruction themselves.

  • What If I’m About to Turn 18?

    In Texas, licensing requirements differ for ages 14-17 and 18-24. If you’re nearing 18 and have started an online teen driver’s ed course, you must complete it and obtain your certificate before your 18th birthday. Otherwise, you’ll need to enroll in an approved adult course, as only the adult course certificate qualifies those 18 and older for a license.

  • Does My Teen Need Auto Insurance?

    While your teen holds a learner’s permit, they can be covered under your vehicle insurance as long as they’re still a student and unlicensed. Once they obtain a driver’s license, they’ll need liability insurance in their own name.

  • How Long Until I Can Drive Without a Parent?

    The timeline to drive without a parent depends on whether you’ve submitted Form DL-92 and received the Texas PTDE Packet.

    • If Yes: You can start your first 6 hours of classroom work, limited to 2 hours per day, making you eligible for your learner’s permit in 3 days.
    • If No: The Parent-Taught approval process takes 3-4 weeks, though requesting email confirmation can reduce this to about a week. Once you receive the PTDE Packet, you’ll need a minimum of 3 days to complete initial coursework before applying for your learner’s permit.
  • How Long is My Teen’s Driver’s License Certificate Valid?

    The teen driver’s license certificate is valid until the student turns 19. The certificate issued for completing the Virtual Drive of Texas parent-taught driver education course confirms that all requirements for ages 15-17 have been met.

    If you turn 18 before receiving the teen certificate, you’ll need to start a new course for ages 18-24. However, if you receive the certificate before turning 18, it remains valid until age 19. Note that a provisional license expires on the student’s 18th birthday, so further practice will require the adult course.

  • How Do I Know if I’m Eligible to Be a Parent Taught Driving Instructor?

    The TDLR website provides step-by-step instructions for registering as a parent-taught driving instructor. You can check your eligibility to teach your student here.

  • How Does Online Driver’s Ed Compare to a Commercial Classroom?

    Online driver’s ed provides flexibility, allowing students to learn at their own pace and on any schedule. Unlike commercial classrooms with fixed attendance times, online courses are accessible 24/7, helping students balance school, activities, and driving education.

    For parents, online courses offer a hybrid approach, combining professional curriculum with hands-on guidance. Parent Taught Driver Education (PTDE) lets parents actively engage in their teen’s learning, offering a safe, supportive environment.

    Online courses include interactive content, practice tests, and progress tracking, which help students retain concepts and prepare for Texas DPS exams. In all, online driver’s ed is a flexible, affordable alternative, catering to both students’ and parents’ unique needs.

Quiz Yourself!

See how much you already know about driver’s ed in Texas by taking our 10 question practice quiz!

Driver's Ed Questions for the Texas Driver

For more questions and answers about driver’s ed in Texas, check out our full FAQ Page HERE!

$99.95

$59.95

STEP 2- COMPLETE THE FIRST SIX HOURS OF OUR COURSE

The student begins with the first 6 hours of our online Texas driver’s ed course, focused on preparing for the DPS written permit test. As a TDLR-approved provider, we offer the official DPS test directly within the course—no DPS office visit needed! With three attempts to take the test at home, students can feel more relaxed and confident.

STEP 3- PASS THE DPS WRITTEN TEST

DPS Written Test with a 98% first-time pass rate: Our Texas driver’s ed course includes the DPS written test, with 98% of students passing on their first try! You’ll also have two more attempts if needed. By course end, you’ll be fully prepared for Texas road rules, signs, and state regulations to drive safely and responsibly.

STEP 4- PRACTICE DRIVING AND FINISH YOUR VIRTUAL DRIVE LESSONS

Teens must hold their learner’s license for six months, during which they can begin behind-the-wheel lessons with a designated parent or guardian. Don’t forget—18 hours of online coursework remain before the student receives the final Certificate of Completion (DE-964). During this time, teens continue both online driver education and in-car driving lessons until all course requirements are met.

STEP 5- WATCH THE DPS IMPACT TEXAS VIDEO

The state of Texas requires all teens to watch the two-hour Impact Texas Young Drivers (ITYD) video. This is a state law, not a Virtual Drive requirement. To obtain your license, you must have both the Certificate of Completion from Virtual Drive and the ITYD Certificate. You’ll only be eligible to watch the ITYD video after completing all sections of your driver education, both classroom and behind-the-wheel. Our program provides instructions on accessing this video at the end of the course.

STEP 6- APPLY FOR YOUR DRIVER'S LICENSE

Once you turn sixteen, have held your learner’s license for at least six months, and completed all course requirements, you’ll be eligible to schedule your DPS road test and apply for your provisional Texas driver’s license. Our course includes a checklist of required documents and guidance on finding your nearest DPS office. Be sure to make multiple copies of your driver education certificate (DE-964 for teens) for insurance discounts and personal records.

Practice Test Title 3