Getting a driving license in Houston is a significant milestone for many residents, marking a newfound sense of freedom and independence. Due to the vastness of the urban context, having a car is a must to enjoy the city at full.
How to obtain the license
The process for a Class C license is relatively straightforward: completing a 6-hour driver’s education course is the first step, even though it’s only compulsory till 24 years old. The course covers traffic rules, safe driving practices, and the Texas Driver Handbook.
After obtaining the certificate, you can apply for a learner’s permit, which grants the holder limited driving privileges under the supervision of a licensed adult over 21 years of age. It’s essential to take driving lessons, in case you need to.
Drivers must accumulate at least 30 hours of supervised driving, with ten of those at night, before advancing to the next phase. The «Impact Texas Teen Drivers» program, aimed at reducing the number of accidents involving young drivers, is another requirement to complete during this period. It emphasizes the importance of safe driving behaviors and the consequences of risky choices behind the wheel.
The skills test
It’s now time to take the driving skills test, which evaluates various aspects, including parking, lane changes, turns, and more. You can do it through a private school or directly at the DPS office: in this case, the fee is much lower, and the documents are processed right away.
The license is then mailed to your residence address.
Prove yourself
I have to say it felt strange to attend the course and take the tests once again since I’ve been driving for over 12 years in Europe. However, the American process is way easier than the Italian one: in the US there are few learning hours, and the road test examiners are not as strict as the European one.
Streets in Houston don’t admit distractions, and sometimes going from one place to another seems a tough challenge.
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