Parent-Taught or Instructor-Taught Driver's Ed in Texas — Which is Right for You?

In Texas, teens ages 14–17 have two options for completing their required driver education: Parent-Taught or Instructor-Taught. While both meet the same state requirements and lead to the same license, the learning environment, instruction method, and overall experience can differ significantly. Here's a clear breakdown to help you decide which option is the right fit.

Compare your options

Parent-Taught

To complete parent-taught driver's ed, your teen must finish the full 24-hour online course and log 30 hours of behind-the-wheel practice with an approved guardian — meaning the guardian takes on the role of instructor throughout the entire process.

Who Can Qualify as a Guardian-Instructor?

Be the teen's parent, step-parent, grandparent, foster parent, or legal guardian
Hold a valid Texas driver's license for at least 3 years
Have no more than 5 points on their driving record within the past 3 years
Have no license suspensions or forfeitures for traffic violations within the past 3 years
Have no DWI or criminal record within the past 7 years

✅ Pros

Lower overall cost
No scheduling required until the road test
Guardian gains firsthand insight into their teen's driving habits

❌ Cons

Guardian must have a flexible schedule to log practice hours
No professional driving instruction or feedback
Not all guardians may meet eligibility requirements

Enroll in Parent-Taught

Instructor-Taught

With instructor-taught driver's ed, your teen completes the full course through a state-licensed driving school like Crossroad Driving School. Certified instructors handle both the classroom portion and the required behind-the-wheel training, providing professional guidance every step of the way. Behind-the-wheel training includes 7 hours of in-car instruction and 7 hours of in-car observation.

✅ Pros

Ideal for guardians with busy schedules or those who don't meet parent-taught eligibility requirements
Students receive professional feedback and instruction from a certified instructor
Training takes place in a dual-control vehicle for added safety
The driving school handles all required paperwork

❌ Cons

Higher cost than parent-taught

Enroll in Instructor-Taught

Still unsure which is right for you?

We're happy to walk you through both options and help you pick the best fit for your family.

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