Teen vs. Adult Drivers Ed in Texas: What’s the Difference?

Travis Driving School
Jun 7
3 min read

If you're looking to get your driver's license in Texas, one of the first things you'll need to figure out is which driver education course applies to you: Teen Drivers Ed or Adult Drivers Ed. While both are designed to help Texans learn the rules of the road, there are key differences in the requirements based on your age. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the two programs—and how Travis Driving School can help you get licensed, no matter your age.

A flat-style illustration of a drivers ed classroom. A cheerful male instructor stands at the front, gesturing with a clipboard while explaining something to a teen male and an adult female seated and listening attentively. A Texas state outline and the words "Driver Education" appear on a large screen behind him, symbolizing official instruction.
Alt Text: Instructor teaching a teen and adult in a Texas drivers ed classroom

TL;DR

Teens (14–17) must take a full Teen Drivers Ed program, including behind-the-wheel hours and a learner’s permit.
Adults (18–24) must complete a 6-hour Adult Drivers Ed course, with no permit phase required.
Adults 25+ are not required to take a course but are strongly encouraged to do so.
Travis Driving School offers approved courses tailored to both teens and adults.

Why Age Matters for Drivers Ed in Texas

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) sets different requirements for driver education depending on how old you are when you apply. These age-specific programs are designed to ensure that all drivers are adequately prepared, regardless of their starting point.

Teen Drivers Ed (Ages 14–17)

What It Includes

Texas law requires teens to complete a 32-hour classroom course and 44 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction, which includes:

7 hours of in-car observation
7 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction
30 hours of supervised driving (10 at night)

At Travis Driving School, we make this process fun and flexible with online classes and experienced instructors who know how to connect with young drivers.

Learner’s Permit Requirement

Before a teen can get behind the wheel, they must:

Be at least 15 years old
Pass a written knowledge exam
Obtain a learner’s permit from the Texas DPS

Travis Driving School helps teens prepare for the permit test with engaging lessons and practice quizzes.

Graduated Driver License (GDL) Program

Teens must hold their learner’s permit for at least six months and complete the GDL program, which helps reduce risk by gradually exposing new drivers to more complex driving situations.

H2: Adult Drivers Ed (Ages 18–24)

H3: Course Requirements

A proud young woman smiles while holding up her new Texas driver’s license with one hand and giving a thumbs-up with the other. She stands confidently in front of a parked blue car, representing successful completion of her driver education.
Alt Text: Happy woman holding Texas driver’s license in front of car

If you're between 18 and 24, you're required to complete a 6-hour TDLR-approved Adult Drivers Ed course. There’s:

No behind-the-wheel requirement
No learner’s permit required
No GDL program

At Travis Driving School, our adult course is available online 24/7 and is designed for busy adults who want to knock out the requirement fast.

H3: DPS Knowledge Exam Included

Many adult courses—like the one at Travis Driving School—include the written knowledge exam. That means you can complete the course and test in one convenient place.

What About Adults 25 and Older?

Not Mandatory, But Highly Recommended

If you’re 25 or older, you aren’t legally required to take a driver education course in Texas. However, if you've never been licensed, it’s highly recommended. Driving is a serious responsibility, and a structured course—like those at Travis Driving School—can prepare you for success on the road.

Key Differences at a Glance

Requirement	Teen Drivers Ed (14–17)	Adult Drivers Ed (18–24)	Adults 25+
Mandatory Course	Yes	Yes	No (Recommended)
Course Hours	32 hours + driving time	6 hours	Varies
Learner’s Permit Needed	Yes	No	No
Behind-the-Wheel Hours	Yes	No	Optional
GDL Participation	Yes	No	No

A clean infographic chart comparing the key differences between Teen Drivers Ed and Adult Drivers Ed in Texas. It includes categories like mandatory courses, course hours, permit requirements, and GDL participation, all visually presented with icons and colors representing each age group.
Alt Text: Infographic comparing Teen vs. Adult Drivers Ed requirements in Texas

Why Choose Travis Driving School?

No matter your age, Travis Driving School offers expert instruction, flexible online options, and a friendly team dedicated to helping you succeed. Here’s what sets us apart:

State-Approved Courses for both teen and adult drivers
User-Friendly Online Platform with 24/7 access
Engaging Curriculum that keeps students motivated
Customer Support that’s responsive and helpful

We believe learning to drive should be safe, empowering, and maybe even a little fun.

Compelling Conclusion

Whether you're a high school student itching for freedom or an adult finally ready to hit the road, Texas has different rules for you—and Travis Driving School has the perfect course to match. By understanding the difference between Teen and Adult Drivers Ed, you can meet state requirements and become a safe, confident driver.

Enroll with Travis Driving School today and get started on your journey behind the wheel—no matter your age!