Understanding the Texas Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program

Understanding the Texas Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program

Understanding the Texas Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program

Posted by on 2024-05-07

The Texas Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program is designed to help new drivers gain the skills and experience they need to become safe and responsible drivers. This program consists of three stages: learner's permit, provisional license, and full driver's license.

During the learner's permit stage, teens are required to complete a driver education course and pass a written exam. They must also log a certain number of hours behind the wheel with a licensed adult before they can apply for their provisional license. This stage is meant to give new drivers the opportunity to practice driving in a controlled environment before they are allowed to drive on their own.

Once teens have completed the requirements for their learner's permit, they can apply for a provisional license. This stage allows them to drive unsupervised, but with certain restrictions, such as not driving late at night or with passengers under a certain age. These restrictions are meant to help new drivers gain experience gradually and reduce the risk of accidents.

Finally, after completing all the requirements of the GDL program and holding a provisional license for a set period of time, teens can apply for their full driver's license. At this point, they are considered experienced enough to drive without any restrictions.

Overall, the Texas GDL program is an important step in ensuring that new drivers develop safe driving habits and skills before being fully licensed. By going through these stages, teens are more likely to become responsible drivers who follow traffic laws and prioritize safety on the road.