What Is Parent Taught Driver Education In Texas?

When it comes to Driver's Ed, you have different options if you are a resident of Texas. One of those options is parent-taught driver education, but what does it entail and who is eligible? There are many questions when it comes to this drivers ed option in Texas, so find out the answers below!

What Is Parent Taught Driver Education?

For parent-taught driver's ed, it is a driver education course where the parent, step-parent, grandparent, step-grandparent, foster parents or legal guardians teach their teenager how to drive.

How is the Parent Taught Driver Education different then taking driver education with a driver education school?

Both the parent-taught driver education program and the program with a driving school or at public school have the same education and driving requirements.

Who Can Teach My Child?

The following persons may instruct the Parent Taught program:

• Parent
• Step-parent
• Grandparent
• Step-grandparent
• Foster Parent
• Legal guardian

In addition to the list above, a parent, legal guardian or a judge of a court with jurisdiction over the student can designate a person to instruct the course, as long as they meet the following requirements:

• Is at least 25 years old;
• Does not charge a fee for conducting the course; and
• Has at least seven years of driving experience

How Do I Get Started With The Parent Taught Program?

If you are wanting to take part in the Parent-Taught Driver's Ed program, the first thing you must do is order the Parent-Taught Driver Education Program Guide. For the guide, you can order it online or download the request form. This guide costs $20 and is non-refundable. Next, you will need to purchase an approved Parent-Taught Driver education course from an approved parent-taught course provider, which you can search for here.

What’s the difference between Parent-Taught and Instructor-Taught Drivers Ed?

This is a question many people ask and the difference between Parent-Taught and Instructor-Taught courses is who does the teaching for the two sections of your training: classroom and behind-the-wheel. Here is a breakdown for each:

• Parent-Taught Driver Education Course: Your parent/guardian would be the teacher for both portions. They can use our online course as the classroom material. This will allow you to study at your own pace under their guidance. Your parent/guardian is also your teacher for the behind-the-wheel portion. They can designate someone else to be the instructor, as long as that person is not charging a fee and meets other state requirements.
• Instructor-Taught Driver Education Course: This option does not require your parent/guardian to teach either portion of your training. For the classroom portion, you can take our online course on your own and at your own pace. For the behind-the-wheel portion, you would have to driving lessons from a state-approved school which Coastline Academy is. We offer driving lessons here!

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our friendly support staff. If you want to start your driver's training journey with Coastline Academy, make sure to sign up for Drivers Ed and book your driving lesson today.