First set of keys. Whole new adventure.
Your teenager is ready for the road. You might need a minute. From learner licenses and driving lessons to first cars and auto insurance, here's your guide to helping your teen start driving in Texas.
They're growing up.
You're handing over the keys.
First driving lessons. First solo trip. First time you watch them pull out of the driveway and immediately check your phone.
Getting a driver's license is a big milestone. Here's how Texas families can navigate the licensing process, build safer habits and prepare for the insurance side of things.
Two stages. One very excited teenager.
Texas uses a graduated driver licensing program to help teens build experience before driving independently.
Start learning.
Teens can begin the classroom portion of an approved driver education course at age 14.
Get a learner license.
Eligible teens can apply for a learner license after completing the required initial driver education instruction and passing the required tests.
Apply for a provisional license.
After holding a learner license for at least six months, completing driver education and meeting other requirements, eligible teens can take their driving test.
More independence.
Provisional license restrictions generally end at age 18. Drivers must still follow all applicable traffic laws.
Parent-taught or driving school?
Texas offers several approved driver education options, including traditional schools, online courses, public school programs and parent-taught driver education.
Practice makes progress.
A Texas learner license lets your teen practice driving under the supervision of a qualified adult.
Depending on the course format, teens must complete either the required initial classroom instruction or the full classroom portion before applying.
Prepare identification, proof of Texas residency, Social Security information, driver education documents and school enrollment verification or an accepted alternative.
Your teen will need to meet the application, vision and applicable knowledge testing requirements.
A licensed driver age 21 or older must sit in the front passenger seat while a learner drives.
Six months means six months.
Teens generally must hold a valid learner license for at least six months before applying for a provisional license, unless they turn 18.
They passed the test.
There are still some rules.
Once your teen earns a provisional license, they can drive independently. But Texas places additional restrictions on drivers under 18.
Passenger limits
A provisional driver generally cannot have more than one passenger under age 21 who is not a family member.
Midnight to 5 a.m.
Driving is generally restricted between midnight and 5 a.m., with exceptions for work, school activities and emergencies.
Put the phone away.
Texas prohibits drivers under 18 from using wireless communication devices while driving, including hands-free devices, except in emergencies.
Before the driving test
Teens must complete their required driver education and supervised driving practice, including at least 30 hours behind the wheel, with 10 hours at night. They must also complete the Impact Texas Teen Driver program.
Safe, sensible and maybe not a sports car.
Your teen might have their dream car picked out already. Your budget and insurance company may have other ideas.
Look at crash-test ratings.
Compare vehicle safety ratings, driver-assistance features and overall crash protection before making a purchase.
EXPLORE VEHICLE RATINGS ↗Get a quote first.
Insurance costs can vary significantly by vehicle. Compare quotes before buying your teen's first car.
Think beyond the purchase price.
Consider maintenance, fuel economy, repair costs and the vehicle's service history.
Make it easy to drive.
Look for good visibility, manageable dimensions and features that support safe driving.
Buying used?
Get a vehicle history report and consider an independent pre-purchase inspection before handing over the money.
Confidence is good. Experience is better.
The goal isn't just passing the driving test. It's helping your teen build safe, consistent habits for years to come.
Gradually introduce highways, nighttime driving, rain, parking and unfamiliar routes when appropriate.
Set clear expectations about keeping phones out of reach while driving.
Discuss how friends, music and conversations can distract new drivers.
Show your teen what to do after a breakdown, flat tire or minor accident.
Agree on curfews, passengers, vehicle use and what happens if plans change.
New driver. New insurance conversation.
Teen drivers generally cost more to insure because they have less driving experience. But there are ways to compare options and look for savings.
Those grades might pay off.
Some insurers offer discounts for qualifying grades or academic performance.
Ask about course discounts.
Completing approved driver education or other qualifying safety courses may help lower premiums.
Keep it in the family.
Adding your teen to an existing family policy is often less expensive than purchasing separate coverage.
Safe driving can help.
Some insurers offer usage-based programs that may reward qualifying driving habits. Review how the program collects and uses data.
Don't wait until they pass the test.
Tell your insurance company when your teen starts learning to drive. Ask when they need to be listed on your policy and how coverage works during the learner stage.
Oh yeah.
Insurance.
Your teen's first driver's license is a big milestone. It's also a good time to take a closer look at your family's auto insurance.
Adding your teen
Review when your teen needs to be added to your policy, which vehicles they'll drive and how the change affects your premium.
Liability coverage
Texas requires minimum auto liability coverage, but you can explore higher limits depending on your household's needs and financial circumstances.
Collision & comprehensive
Collision can help pay for covered accident damage to your vehicle. Comprehensive can help with covered events such as theft, hail and certain other non-collision losses.
Umbrella insurance
An umbrella policy may offer additional liability protection above your underlying auto and other qualifying policies, subject to its terms.
Hey Charley is independent, so we can help your family compare available insurance options, review discounts and prepare for your newest driver.
New driver.
Let's talk coverage.
Learner permit? First driver's license? Shopping for their first car? Let Charley help you explore auto insurance options for your teen driver.
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