Texas Parent Taught DRIVER EDUCTION

The following Teen Driver Education Course is recommended:

Texas implemented a Parent Taught Driver Education Program on April 1, 1997. The Parent Taught Driver Education Program requires students to acquire the essential knowledge, skills and experience to perform reduced-risk practices in the total traffic environment. To achieve this goal, students are required to master the following elements: applicable Texas traffic laws, rules and procedures for operating and owning an automobile; benefits of occupant protections, use of a space management systems; factors and behaviors that effect driver performance including alcohol and other drugs; and protection of Texas natural resources, including litter prevention.

The Parent Taught Driver Education Program is available to teenagers between the ages of 14 and 17. However, before the instructor (parent, stepparent, grandparent, step-grandparent, or legal guardian) begins teaching this course, the instructor must have a valid TEXAS driver license. Active Military US military personnel and their spouse may participate as instructors if they hold a valid license from their state of permanent residence or last duty station.

The instructor cannot have a conviction (including a probated sentence) of criminally negligent homicide or driving while intoxicated. The instructor's license may not be suspended, revoked, or forfeited in the past three years for traffic related violations. Furthermore, the instructor may not be disabled due to mental illness. Questions as to mental stability will be forwarded to the Medical Advisory Board for determination.

It is the responsibility of the instructor to check both their criminal and driver records prior to requesting the packet. The Department will not check the instructor's record until issuance of the instruction permit to the student. If at that time it is determined that the instructor has a prohibited conviction the instruction permit will be denied and all prior classroom instruction credit is invalid.

In order to apply for a Parent Taught Driver Education Program, you must complete the DL-92 - Request Form and submit with a $20.00 non-refundable fee (check or money order only) to: Texas Department of Public Safety, License Issuance Bureau, P.O. Box 149246, Austin, Texas 78714-9246. An additional Request Form and $20.00 non--refundable fee are required for each student who will be participating in the Parent Taught Driver Education Program. Please allow 2 - 3 weeks for delivery.

The Request Form must be completely filled out with original signatures or the process will be delayed.