Parent vs Instructor Taught - Whats the Difference?
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. Below we provide a clear breakdown of your options to help you decide what’s best for you.
Course work:
You will need to complete the full 32 hour online course + log 30 hours of driving with an approved guardian – essentially your guardian acts as the instructor.
Who can Qualify as an “Instructor”?
- Be the teen’s parent, step-parent, grandparent, foster parent, or legal guardian
- Hold a valid Texas license for at least 3 years
- Must not have six or more points on your driving record within the past 3 years.
- No license suspensions or forfeitures for traffic violations within the past 3 years
- No DWI or criminal record in the past 7 years
Pros
- Lower Cost
- Flexible; learn at your own pace
- No scheduling is needed until the teen is read to take their road test
- Guardian has a better idea of their Teen’s driving habits
- Required guardians have to have a flexible schedule
- No professional driving feedback
- Some guardians might not meet all requirements
- Paperwork like logging hours, filling forms, and determining eligibility is all shifted to the teen/guardian
- Some insurance companies prefer instructor-taught however this does not apply is all cases.
You’ll take the full course through a state-licensed driving school like Crossroad Driving School. Certified instructors handle both the classroom instruction and the required behind-the-wheel training, giving students professional guidance every step of the way. Behind the wheel training includes 7 hours of lessons + 7 hours of in car observation
Pros:
- Good for guardians with busy schedules or that cant qualify for instructor taught
- Provides a chance to receive professional feedback and instruction
- Drivers learn in a dual-control vehicle
- Driving School handles all paperwork
Cons
- Higher Cost
- Schedule and completion time partially depends on driving school availability
- More time spent scheduling lessons
Fill out the from below, give us a call/text, or come in during business hours. We’ll be happy to assist! We’re open all days 9AM-7pm except Friday.
- 3700 W 15th St Suite 300D Plano TX, 75075
- (972) 302-1517
- [email protected]