When teens turn 16, and have had a learner license for at least 6 months and have 30 hours of practice driving (including 10 hours at night), they can apply for this provisional license. They also must pass a behind-the-wheel driving test and complete a state-certified driver’s education course and possess the classroom and behind the wheel certificates. Legal guardians must accompany their teens to the appropriate agency to sign the application form.
A teen with a provisional license is allowed to drive alone, but must follow certain restrictions for the first six months. They may transport no more than one person under age 21 who is not a family member. With a provisional license, they may drive between midnight and 5 a.m. only when accompanied by a licensed parent or guardian unless driving to/from employment, driving to/from a school-authorized activity or for a medical emergency. Teens under age 18 may not use electronic communications devices while driving and all passengers are required to wear seat belts. Additionally, all teen drivers under age 21 are required to abide by Texas’ ZERO tolerance law which prohibits any measurable amount of alcohol in their blood stream. age 18, teens who have successfully completed the provisional license phase are eligible for an unrestricted license. All original licenses, other than a learner license, issued to persons under 18 years of age will be marked “Provisional.” The license will be vertical and will be dated to expire on the applicant’s 18th birthday or next birthday occurring after the date of issuance.
