How to Get a Texas Driver’s License at 18 or Older (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Texas Drivers License at 18
Getting a Texas drivers license at 18 is easier than many adults think. If you are 18 or older and want to start driving in Texas, there are just a few steps you need to complete including adult driver education, visiting the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), obtaining a restricted license, and passing a road test.
This guide explains exactly what to do if you are an adult applying for a driver license in Texas — from taking the required course to completing your road test.
The process is the same whether you live in Houston, Austin, San Antonio, Dallas, El Paso, West Texas, South Texas, or anywhere else in the state.
Step 1: Complete the Texas Adult Driver Education Course
If you are 18–24 years old, Texas law requires you to complete a 6-Hour Adult Driver Education course before applying for a Texas driver license.
Drive Smart Driving School offers a Texas-approved online Adult Driver Education course that you can take from anywhere in Texas.
Whether you live in a major city or a small town, you can complete the course online at your own pace.
Start the Texas Adult Driver Education Course
- ✔ State-approved Texas driver education
- ✔ 100% online
- ✔ Self-paced
- ✔ Accessible on phone, tablet, or computer
- ✔ Available to students anywhere in Texas
Step 2: Receive Your ADE-1317 Adult Driver Education Certificate
After completing the course and passing the final exam, Drive Smart Driving School will issue your ADE-1317 Adult Driver Education Certificate.
This certificate proves that you completed the required adult driver education training.
You will need this certificate when you visit the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Step 3: Visit the Texas DPS to Apply for Your License
Next, you will visit the Texas Department of Public Safety to begin the licensing process.
At DPS you will:
- Submit your ADE-1317 certificate
- Provide identification documents
- Pass a vision test
- Complete the driver license application
If you have never held a license before, DPS will issue you a Class B Restricted Driver License.
This restricted license allows you to legally take your Texas road skills driving test.
Step 4: Bring These Documents to DPS
- ADE-1317 Adult Driver Education Certificate
- Proof of identity (birth certificate or passport)
- Social Security card or proof of SSN
- Two documents proving Texas residency
- Proof of vehicle registration (if you own a vehicle)
- Proof of Texas auto insurance (if you own a vehicle)
Step 5: Schedule Your Texas Road Test
Before taking a road test, you must first obtain your B Restricted License from DPS.
Once you have that license, you can schedule your Texas road skills driving test.
Many adults prefer to take their road test with a certified third-party testing school instead of waiting for a DPS appointment.
Drive Smart Driving School offers DPS-approved road testing.
Our road testing locations are located in:
- Carrollton, Texas
- The Colony, Texas
These locations serve students throughout North Texas including Plano, Frisco, Lewisville, Denton, McKinney, and Dallas.
Step 6: Pass the Road Test
During the driving test, the examiner will evaluate your ability to safely operate a vehicle.
The test typically includes:
- Starting and stopping safely
- Turning and lane control
- Parking and backing
- Driving safely in traffic
- Obeying traffic signs and signals
Step 7: Receive Your Texas Driver License
After passing your road test, you will complete the final licensing step with DPS.
DPS will then issue your Texas Class C Driver License, and your official license will arrive by mail.
Start Your Texas Driver License Journey Today
If you are 18 or older and ready to get your Texas driver’s license, the first step is completing your required Adult Driver Education course.
The online course can be taken anywhere in Texas. Road testing is available at our Carrollton and The Colony locations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting a Texas Driver’s License at 18
Can you get a Texas driver’s license at 18 without driver education?
If you are between 18 and 24 years old, Texas law requires completion of a 6-Hour Adult Driver Education course before applying for a driver license.
Can adults take driver education online in Texas?
Yes. Adults can complete the required Texas driver education course online from anywhere in the state. Drive Smart Driving School offers a fully approved Texas Adult Driver Education course online.
Do you have to go to DPS for the driving test?
No. After obtaining your B Restricted License from DPS, many adults choose to take their driving test with a certified third-party testing school such as Drive Smart Driving School.
Where can I take the road test near Carrollton or The Colony?
Drive Smart Driving School offers DPS-approved road testing in Carrollton and The Colony, Texas. Students can schedule their road test here: Schedule a Texas Road Test.
Más Información Sobre Cómo Obtener una Licencia en Texas
Si desea leer una guía más detallada sobre el proceso completo para adultos, visite nuestra página:
Cómo Obtener una Licencia de Conducir en Texas a los 18 Años: 7 Pasos Fáciles