Getting a Texas learner’s permit in Temple is a lot simpler than most people realize. DPS still handles the official paperwork and testing, but almost everything that prepares you for the permit exam can be completed 100% online through Temple Driving Safety.
This guide breaks down the exact steps, forms, requirements, and online courses Temple teens need to finish before visiting a DPS office in Bell County.
Step 1: Start Your Texas Driver Education Course (Online)
To get your learner’s permit in Texas, teens must begin a state-approved driver education program. The most popular and flexible option in Temple is Parent-Taught Driver’s Ed (PTDE), which lets teens work from home while a parent acts as the instructor.
You can start immediately here: Begin Parent-Taught Driver’s Ed.
Temple Driving Safety provides the online coursework, and Texas DPS handles the permit application and in-person requirements. The online course includes:
- State-approved classroom lessons
- Permit test preparation
- All DPS-required training modules
- Progress tracking and completion certificates
Step 2: Order Your PTDE Packet From the State
Before you start driving hours, the parent instructor must request the official PTDE packet from TDLR. DPS requires this packet as proof that your parent is authorized to supervise your driver education.
Once you have the packet and begin the online course, you’re ready for the classroom section that qualifies you to take your permit exam.
Step 3: Complete the Required Classroom Hours
Teens must complete the first portion of the online course before they can take the written permit test. Once you reach the required chapter milestone, you’ll receive a permit exam eligibility certificate.
This part is done entirely online — no Temple-area driving school needed.
Step 4: Gather Your DPS Documents
Before heading to a DPS location near Temple, you’ll need several documents. DPS will not allow you to test without these items:
- Proof of identity (birth certificate, passport, etc.)
- Social Security card
- Texas residency documents
- PTDE packet documents
- Certificate of completion for the classroom portion of driver’s ed
- Permit exam eligibility certificate
Double-check the list in advance using your Help Center.
Step 5: Take Your Permit Test
The Texas written permit test can be taken:
- Online through your driver’s ed provider (if included), or
- In person at a DPS office
If you pass the test online, you simply bring your certificate to DPS to get the physical permit. If you prefer taking it at DPS, schedule ahead — Temple and Bell County offices often book quickly.
Step 6: Visit DPS to Receive Your Learner’s Permit
Even with online courses, you must visit DPS in person for:
- Photo and fingerprints
- Vision test
- Document review
- Payment of permit fee
Once approved, you’ll receive your official Texas learner’s permit and can begin the in-car portion of your training.
Step 7: Begin Your Behind-the-Wheel Training
After receiving the permit, you can start your behind-the-wheel training as outlined in your PTDE packet. You’ll log driving hours under your parent’s supervision until you meet the state requirements for your DPS road test.
When you’re ready, you can schedule your final road test and continue the process toward earning your full Texas driver’s license.
Get Started With Your Temple TX Driver Education Course
The easiest way to start your learner’s permit in Temple is by enrolling in a state-approved online course. You can begin today and work from any device.
✔ Teen Driver’s Ed (PTDE) ✔ Defensive Driving ✔ Driving Record (Instant Access)
Start here: Get Started
Still have questions? Visit the Help Center or Contact Us.
