Getting your first driver’s license as an adult can look different from getting one as a teenager. Depending on where you live, your age, and whether you’ve had a license before, you may need to complete a driver education course before you can get behind the wheel on your own.
These adult driver education requirements aren’t the same in every state. Some states require specific courses for first-time applicants in certain age groups, while others only require a course if you’ve failed a driving test or need to meet another licensing condition. Adults who already have a valid license may not need driver education at all, although they can still choose to take a course to improve their driving skills.
Here’s how to figure out which requirements apply to you and which course may help you get your license.
When do adults need driver education?
Whether you need driver education depends on your individual circumstances and your state’s licensing rules. Before enrolling in a course, consider a few important questions:
- Are you applying for your first driver’s license? Some states require first-time applicants to complete an approved course, even if they’re well past their teenage years. The course may cover traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and other information you’ll need to pass your tests.
- How old are you? A state may have different requirements for applicants who are 18 to 20, 21 to 24, or 25 and older. Reaching adulthood doesn’t automatically mean you can skip driver education.
- Have you held a driver’s license before? Someone who has never been licensed may have different requirements from someone who is transferring a valid out-of-state license or reinstating a license after a suspension.
- Have you failed a driving test? In some states, applicants must complete additional training after an unsuccessful attempt at the road or driving skills test. This requirement may depend on your age and whether you’ve completed an approved course recently.
- Are you applying for a license after a specific event? A court order, license suspension, or other licensing issue may require a particular type of course. General driver education may not satisfy that requirement.
Once you know which category applies to you, you can narrow down your options and avoid taking a course that doesn’t meet your state’s requirements.
How Adult Driver Education Requirements Differ by State
Here are a few examples of how state requirements can vary. These rules are based on specific licensing situations, so check your state’s current requirements before choosing a course.
Illinois
Illinois requires applicants ages 18, 19, or 20 to complete a six-hour adult driver education course if they are applying for a driver’s license for the first time and haven’t completed an approved driver education course. The course must come from a provider certified by the Illinois Secretary of State.
Texas
Texas requires first-time driver’s license applicants ages 18 through 24 to complete a six-hour adult driver education course before taking the required licensing tests. Applicants age 25 or older generally aren’t required to take driver education, although they must still meet the other licensing requirements.
Florida
Florida requires adults who have never held a driver’s license to complete a Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course as part of qualifying for a first Florida Class E driver’s license. The course covers traffic laws and the effects of alcohol and other substances on driving.
New York
First-time drivers in New York must complete an approved five-hour pre-licensing course or an approved driver education course before taking the road test. Drivers ages 18 and older can take the five-hour course online through an approved provider.
Ohio
Ohio has different requirements for adult applicants depending on their age and testing history. Applicants ages 18, 19, and 20 must complete an approved Class D driver training course and meet the state’s supervised driving requirements to qualify for a license. Applicants age 21 or older who fail their first maneuverability or road test attempt generally must complete an abbreviated adult driver training course before trying again if they haven’t completed an approved driver training course within the previous 12 months.
Why first-time drivers may need different courses.
Imagine two people who are both 19 years old and ready to get their first driver’s licenses. One lives in Texas, and the other lives in Florida.
Although they’re close in age and have the same goal, they don’t need the same course. The Texas applicant must complete a six-hour adult driver education course. The Florida applicant must complete the four-hour Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education course.
Both courses are part of the licensing process, but they address different state requirements. Taking the Florida course wouldn’t automatically satisfy Texas’s adult driver education requirement, and completing the Texas course wouldn’t automatically satisfy Florida’s TLSAE requirement.
That’s why it’s important to choose a course based on where you’re applying for a license, not just your age or the fact that you’re a first-time driver.
Can adults take driver education voluntarily?
Yes. Even if your state doesn’t require driver education for your situation, taking a course can still be worthwhile.
I have a few friends who decided to take driver education as adults, even though it wasn’t required of them. If you’re learning to drive for the first time, a driver education course can help you understand traffic laws, recognize road signs, and prepare for your knowledge test. You may also benefit from professional behind-the-wheel instruction to build your skills and confidence before taking your driving test.
Adults returning to driving after several years away from the road may want to refresh their knowledge of current traffic laws and safe driving practices. Others may want help preparing for a test or understanding unfamiliar road rules after moving to a new state.
Just make sure you understand the difference between a course that helps you prepare and one that fulfills an official requirement. A voluntary course may be useful, but it won’t necessarily count toward your state’s licensing requirements unless the program is approved for that purpose.
How to choose the right adult driver education course.
Before enrolling, take a few minutes to do the following:
- Check your state’s licensing requirements. Visit your state DMV or other licensing agency’s official website to find the rules for first-time applicants in your age group.
- Review your licensing history. Determine whether you’re applying for your first license, transferring an existing license, or meeting a requirement after a failed test or suspension.
- Confirm that the course is approved. If your state requires a specific program, make sure the provider and course meet its requirements.
- Find out whether additional training is necessary. Some programs require behind-the-wheel instruction or supervised driving hours in addition to online coursework.
- Check how completion is documented. Find out whether the course provider reports your completion electronically or whether you need to bring a certificate to your licensing appointment.
If you’re unsure which requirements apply to you, contact your state’s licensing agency before registering. A quick check can help you avoid paying for a course that doesn’t meet your needs.
Start with the requirements that apply to you.
Adult driver education requirements depend on more than your age. Your state, licensing history, and reason for applying can all affect whether you need a course and which program you should take.
Whether you’re applying for your first license, preparing to retake a driving test, or simply looking to improve your driving skills, start by confirming your state’s requirements. Then choose a course that fits your situation and helps you take the next step toward becoming a safe, confident driver.
Interested in learning more about traffic safety?
Are you looking for defensive driving and traffic school courses? Do you want a discount on your auto insurance? Do you know a teen who’s ready to take an online driver education course?
Safe2Drive is here to help! We offer convenient online courses for drivers of any age! Visit our website today to learn about the online courses we offer in your state.