Homepage Fill in Your Texas Dps Driving Log Template
Table of Contents

The Texas DPS Driving Log form is an essential tool for parents and guardians guiding young drivers through the critical phase of behind-the-wheel instruction. This form serves as a record of the 20 hours of practice required before a teenager can apply for a provisional license. To ensure compliance with state regulations, these practice sessions must occur under the supervision of an adult who meets specific criteria. Each day of driving is limited to one hour that counts towards the total, regardless of how long the student actually drives. The log details various recommended practice sessions, covering vital skills such as starting the vehicle, steering, turning, and driving in different environments, including city streets and highways. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of nighttime driving, requiring at least 10 of the 20 hours to be completed after dark. Parents or guardians must sign the log to certify that the practice sessions have been completed, which is crucial when submitting the log along with other necessary documents to the Department of Public Safety. By understanding the components of this form, families can better navigate the journey toward safe and responsible driving for their young drivers.

Sample - Texas Dps Driving Log Form

BEHIND THE WHEEL INSTRUCTION LOG 20 HOURS

Behind-the-Wheel Instruction Guide may be downloaded or printed from www.tea.state.tx.us/drive

The 20 hours of behind-the-wheel practice must be completed in the presence of an adult who meets the requirements of Section 521.222 (d)(2), Transportation Code before the young driver is eligible for a provisional license. Only one (1) hour of behind-the- wheel instruction per day will count towards the 20 hours regardless of the number of hours the student actually drives in a day.

Student’s Name: ________________________________________________________ DL #: ______________________________

Practice Session

Date

Time

Daytime

Nighttime

Adult’s Signature and DL #

 

mm/dd/yyyy

(am/pm)

Hours

Hours

 

 

Getting Ready, Starting,

 

 

 

 

 

Placing the Vehicle in

 

 

 

 

 

Motion, and Stopping

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Recommended 1 hour

 

 

 

 

 

Moving, Stopping,

 

 

 

 

 

Steering, Knowing Where

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You Are

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Recommended 2 hour

 

 

 

 

 

Backing

 

 

 

 

 

Recommended 1 hour

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Turning, Lane Position,

 

 

 

 

 

and Visual Skills

 

 

 

 

 

Recommended 2 hours

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Searching Intended

 

 

 

 

 

Path of Travel

 

 

 

 

 

Recommended 2 hours

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Parking

 

 

 

 

 

Recommended 1 hour

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Turnabouts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Recommended 2 hours

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Multiple Lane Roadways

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Recommended 3 hours

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City Driving

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Recommended 3 hours

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Expressway/Freeway

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Driving

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Recommended 3 hours

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I certify and endorse that the above record is true and correct and my student has completed 20 hours of guided practice which includes at least 10 at nighttime.

____________________________________________________________

_______________________________

Parent/Guardian’s Signature (if over 18 years of age student’s signature)

Date

When your teenager is eligible for the provisional license take this log, the DE-964 driver education completion certificate and with the other required documents to the Department of Public Safety. Required documents: (1) Valid Learner’s License (Instruction Permit), (2) Verification of Enrollment and Attendance Form, (3) DE 964 from school which provided the driver education course, (3) 20 Hours Behind-the-Wheel Practice Log, (4) The vehicle used for the Road Test must be able to pass an inspection where everything works properly, have a valid inspection sticker, valid registration sticker, and current insurance, (5) Money to pay for license

Texas Education Agency/Texas Department of Public Safety Parent Guide 20 Hours

BEHIND THE WHEEL INSTRUCTION LOG 20 HOURS

Behind-the-Wheel Instruction Guide may be downloaded or printed from www.tea.state.tx.us/drive

The 20 hours of behind-the-wheel practice must be completed in the presence of an adult who meets the requirements of Section 521.222 (d)(2), Transportation Code before the young driver is eligible for a provisional license. Only one (1) hour of behind-the- wheel instruction per day will count towards the 20 hours regardless of the number of hours the student actually drives in a day.

Getting Ready, Starting, Placing the Vehicle in Motion, and Stopping (p. 14) Recommended 1 hour -- These practice sessions introduce your teenager to the instrument panel, vehicle controls, and mirror blind spots. The young driver should get ready to drive, start the vehicle, place the vehicle in motion, stop, and secure the vehicle. Please review the vehicle owner’s manual before and during these practice sessions.

Moving, Stopping, Steering, Knowing Where You Are (p. 15) Recommended 2 hours -- Focus on learning the correct procedures for moving, stopping, using reference points, and steering the vehicle at different speeds. Begin in a large, level parking lot that is free of obstacles. The teenager should practice driving around the perimeter of the lot at 10 and 15 mph. Using commentary driving, have your teenager focus on smooth push-pull-slide hand-to-hand steering and stops. Your teenager should be taught to ease off the accelerator or use the brake to reduce speed before entering a curve and use slight acceleration to overcome inertia and pull the vehicle out of the curve. Ask the teenager to move the vehicle to specified targets in the parking lot at 10 and 15 mph. The target is a fixed object that is located 12-20 seconds ahead of the vehicle, in the center of the path of travel, and is what the driver steers toward. It can be a car a block ahead, a traffic signal, the crest of a hill, etc. Having a target helps the new driver to: visualize the space the vehicle will be occupying; look far ahead of the vehicle and begin a search to identify risks; improve steering accuracy. Focus on smooth acceleration, proper speed, and smooth stops. Explain to your teenager that “curling” the toes back to ease pressure off the brake just before stopping results in smoother stops. Practice normal smooth stops and hard smooth stops which are done at a slightly higher speed.

Backing (p. 16) Recommended 1 hour -- Repeat the tasks listed in sessions Moving, Stopping, Steering, Knowing Where You Are with the vehicle in reverse gear at idle or slow speeds. Backing from one target to another allows your teenager to practice seeing, steering, and speed control skills with the vehicle in reverse gear.

Turning, Lane Position, and Visual Skills (p. 16) Recommended 2 hours -- During the next practice sessions practice 10-15 right and left turns from stopped and moving positions in a parking lot. Left turns should be “squared” and right turns should be “rounded.” Emphasize proper signals, mirror checks, side- position reference points, speed and steering control, and the need to look ahead of the vehicle at a selected target in the center of the path of travel. Warn young drivers not to fixate on any one thing. Prior to progressing to driving in a quiet neighborhood, your teenager should be able to demonstrate the ability to move and stop the car smoothly, maintain a given speed, and steer with reasonable precision. If your teenager is ready, practice right and left turns in a residential area.

Searching Intended Path of Travel (p. 18) Recommended 2 hours -- In a residential area, or, if ready, on roads with light traffic, continue working on basic visual skills, negotiating curves, and right and left turns. Practice judging space in seconds, identifying a target, and searching the target area and target path. Ask your teenager to comment prior to changing speed or position. Young drivers have the tendency to monitor the road immediately in front of the vehicle.

Parking (p. 19) Recommended 1 hour -- Angle Parking, Perpendicular Parking, Parallel Parking, Curb Parking, Parking Uphill, Parking Downhill

Turnabouts (p. 21) Recommended 2 hours -- Focus on recognizing the different types of turnabouts and selecting the appropriate type of turnabout for a given situation. Begin in a large, level parking lot free of obstacles. Practice 2-point, 3-point, and U-turns in a parking lot. Progress to a lightly traveled residential area, and practice visual search skills, turns, and each turnabout at least 10 times. The easiest and safest way to change directions is to drive around the block.

Multiple Lane Roadways (p. 22) Recommended 3 hours -- Focus on lane position, lane changing, following distance, and mirror blind spots. If possible, choose a time when the four-lane roadway on which you select to practice has minimal traffic, such as during early morning hours on Saturday or Sunday. There are several lane position choices a driver can make without changing lanes. Practice driving in lane position 1, 2, and 3 for several miles during each session.

City Driving (p. 24) Recommended 3 hours -- Focus on driving on crowded urban roadways. During these practice sessions have your teenager examine the importance of scanning ahead, lane position, covering the brake, and the hazards associated with parked cars, traffic congestion, and distractions. Decision- making is the most important skill used in driving. A driver operating in city traffic flow makes 50-60 decisions per mile. Drivers need visibility, space, time, and adequate traction to perform all maneuvers in city traffic whether crossing, turning, passing, or adjusting speed and/or position. During these sessions ask your teenager to focus on controlling space to the front and speed to enhance visibility, space, time, and traction. Driving on congested roadways allows a very small margin for driver error. Effective searching skills and driver alertness are both essential. Every second counts in this driving environment.

Expressway/Freeway Driving (p. 25) Recommended 3 hours -- Focus on complex risk driving environments at speeds up to 70 mph. Traffic flow on expressways can be heavy and at times unpredictable. They are called limited access highways because there are only certain locations, called interchanges, where a driver can enter and exit the expressway. Expressways have a low frequency of collisions, but often have high injury severity rates when a collision does occur because of the higher speeds. Review the expressway information in the Texas Driver Handbook. Make sure your teenager understands the different kinds of expressway interchanges, expressway signs, signals, lane markings, speed limits, and the importance of maintaining a 20-30 second visual lead.

Texas Education Agency/Texas Department of Public Safety Parent Guide 20 Hours

File Specs

Fact Name Description
Required Hours Students must complete 20 hours of behind-the-wheel practice before obtaining a provisional license.
Adult Supervision The practice must occur in the presence of an adult who meets the requirements outlined in Section 521.222 (d)(2) of the Texas Transportation Code.
Daily Limit Only one hour of behind-the-wheel instruction per day counts towards the total of 20 hours, regardless of actual driving time.
Nighttime Requirement At least 10 of the 20 hours must be completed during nighttime driving sessions.
Documentation When eligible for a provisional license, the student must present the completed log along with several other required documents to the Department of Public Safety.

Texas Dps Driving Log - Usage Guidelines

Completing the Texas DPS Driving Log is a crucial step in ensuring your teenager gains the necessary behind-the-wheel experience required for obtaining a provisional license. This log will help you keep track of the practice hours spent driving with your teenager. Make sure to fill it out accurately and completely, as it will be submitted to the Department of Public Safety along with other required documents when your teenager is ready for their provisional license.

  1. Download or print the Driving Log: Access the form from the Texas Education Agency website at www.tea.state.tx.us/drive.
  2. Fill in the student’s information: Write your teenager's name and driver's license number at the top of the form.
  3. Record practice session details: For each driving session, note the date, time, and whether the driving was done during the daytime or nighttime.
  4. Document hours spent on each skill: As you complete each practice session, fill in the recommended hours for the various driving skills listed, ensuring they total 20 hours, with at least 10 hours at nighttime.
  5. Obtain adult signature: Have the supervising adult sign the log and provide their driver's license number at the bottom of the form.
  6. Parent/Guardian signature: If your teenager is under 18, the parent or guardian must sign the log. If they are over 18, the student should sign instead.
  7. Keep the log safe: Store the completed log in a secure place until it is time to submit it to the Department of Public Safety.

Once the log is filled out, you will need to gather additional documents required for the provisional license application. This includes the DE-964 driver education completion certificate and verification of enrollment. Make sure everything is in order before heading to the Department of Public Safety.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the Texas DPS Driving Log form?

The Texas DPS Driving Log form is a record that tracks the 20 hours of behind-the-wheel practice required for young drivers before they can obtain a provisional license. This log must be completed in the presence of an adult who meets specific requirements outlined in Texas law. It serves as proof that the young driver has completed the necessary practice sessions.

How many hours of driving practice are required?

Young drivers must complete a total of 20 hours of behind-the-wheel practice. At least 10 of these hours must occur during nighttime driving. This requirement ensures that the driver gains experience in various driving conditions before obtaining their provisional license.

Who can supervise the driving practice?

The driving practice must be supervised by an adult who meets the criteria specified in Section 521.222 (d)(2) of the Texas Transportation Code. This typically includes a parent, guardian, or another adult who holds a valid Texas driver's license.

What is the maximum number of hours that can be counted per day?

Only one hour of behind-the-wheel instruction per day can be counted towards the required 20 hours, regardless of how many hours the student actually drives in that day. This rule helps ensure that practice is spaced out over time for better learning retention.

What types of driving skills should be practiced?

The log includes various recommended practice sessions, such as getting ready to drive, moving, stopping, steering, turning, and parking. Each skill has a suggested duration to help structure the practice effectively. For example, backing should be practiced for at least one hour, while expressway driving should take three hours.

What documents are needed when applying for a provisional license?

When applying for a provisional license, the following documents must be submitted: a valid learner's license, a Verification of Enrollment and Attendance Form, the DE-964 driver education completion certificate, the 20 Hours Behind-the-Wheel Practice Log, proof that the vehicle used for the road test meets inspection requirements, and payment for the license fee.

Is there a certification required on the log?

Yes, the log must include a certification statement signed by the supervising adult or parent/guardian. This statement verifies that the record is true and that the young driver has completed the required practice hours, including at least 10 hours at nighttime.

Where can I find the Behind-the-Wheel Instruction Guide?

The Behind-the-Wheel Instruction Guide can be downloaded or printed from the Texas Education Agency's website at www.tea.state.tx.us/drive. This guide provides detailed information on how to effectively conduct the driving practice sessions.

Common mistakes

  1. Failing to complete the student's name and DL number sections accurately.

  2. Not recording practice session dates in the mm/dd/yyyy format.

  3. Overlooking the requirement of having an adult present during practice sessions.

  4. Not obtaining the adult's signature and DL number for each session.

  5. Misunderstanding that only one hour of practice per day counts toward the total.

  6. Neglecting to include nighttime driving hours in the total 20 hours.

  7. Forgetting to certify and endorse the log with the parent/guardian's signature.

  8. Failing to keep a clear record of the time spent during each practice session.

  9. Not following the recommended practice times for each driving skill.

  10. Missing to gather all required documents before heading to the Department of Public Safety.

Documents used along the form

When preparing for a young driver's provisional license in Texas, several important documents accompany the Texas DPS Driving Log form. Each document plays a crucial role in ensuring that the applicant meets all necessary requirements for obtaining their license. Below is a list of these forms, along with a brief description of each.

  • Valid Learner’s License (Instruction Permit): This is the initial license that allows a young driver to practice driving under the supervision of a qualified adult. It is essential for logging behind-the-wheel hours.
  • Verification of Enrollment and Attendance Form: This form verifies that the student is currently enrolled in school and attending classes regularly. It is often required to demonstrate commitment to education while pursuing a driver’s license.
  • DE-964 Driver Education Completion Certificate: Issued by the driving school, this certificate confirms that the student has completed the required driver education course. It is a critical document when applying for the provisional license.
  • 20 Hours Behind-the-Wheel Practice Log: This log tracks the 20 hours of supervised driving practice that the student must complete. It includes details about each practice session, such as date, time, and the adult supervisor's signature.
  • Vehicle Inspection Report: Before the road test, the vehicle used must pass a safety inspection. This report confirms that the vehicle is in good working condition and meets all safety requirements.
  • Proof of Vehicle Registration: This document shows that the vehicle is registered with the state and is legally allowed to be driven on public roads. It must be current and valid during the road test.
  • Proof of Insurance: A document that verifies the vehicle has valid insurance coverage. This is essential to ensure that the driver is protected in case of an accident.
  • Payment for License Fees: When applying for the provisional license, there are fees that must be paid. Having the necessary funds ready is crucial to complete the application process.
  • Parental Consent Form: If the applicant is under 18, this form must be signed by a parent or guardian, giving consent for the minor to apply for a driver’s license.
  • Texas Driver Handbook: While not a formal document required for submission, this handbook provides important information about driving laws, road signs, and safe driving practices that can help the young driver prepare for both the written and road tests.

Having these documents organized and ready will help streamline the process of applying for a provisional license. Each form serves a specific purpose and ensures that the young driver is well-prepared to take on the responsibilities of driving. It's always a good idea to double-check the requirements with the Texas Department of Public Safety to ensure nothing is overlooked.

Similar forms

The Texas DPS Driving Log form shares similarities with the Learner's Permit Application. Both documents are essential for a young driver's journey toward obtaining a full license. The Learner's Permit Application requires the applicant to provide personal information, including their name and date of birth, as well as proof of residency and identity. Just as the Driving Log tracks behind-the-wheel practice hours, the Learner's Permit Application serves as a formal request to begin supervised driving, ensuring that the applicant meets the necessary criteria to start their training under an adult's supervision.

Another document that resembles the Texas DPS Driving Log is the Driver Education Completion Certificate. This certificate is issued upon successful completion of a driver education course and serves as proof that the student has received the necessary theoretical knowledge about driving. Like the Driving Log, which records practical driving hours, the Driver Education Completion Certificate is a critical component in the licensing process, as it demonstrates that the student has met educational requirements before applying for a provisional license.

The Parent/Guardian Consent Form is also akin to the Texas DPS Driving Log. This form is often required for minors seeking a learner's permit or provisional license. It verifies that a parent or guardian has given permission for the young driver to engage in the learning process. Similar to the Driving Log, which requires parental or guardian signatures to confirm practice hours, the Parent/Guardian Consent Form ensures that an adult is involved in the young driver's education and safety.

The Vehicle Inspection Report shares a connection with the Driving Log as both documents address safety and compliance. The Vehicle Inspection Report confirms that the vehicle used for driving practice meets safety standards and is roadworthy. Just as the Driving Log records the hours and conditions of driving practice, the Vehicle Inspection Report ensures that the vehicle is suitable for use during this critical learning phase, thereby promoting safe driving practices.

The Road Test Appointment Confirmation is another document that aligns with the Texas DPS Driving Log. This confirmation is necessary for scheduling the driving test that assesses the skills learned during behind-the-wheel practice. Similar to the Driving Log, which tracks the hours of practice leading up to the test, the Road Test Appointment Confirmation signifies a milestone in the learning process, indicating that the student is ready to demonstrate their driving capabilities to an examiner.

Moreover, the Verification of Enrollment and Attendance Form is comparable to the Driving Log. This document is required to ensure that the student is enrolled in school and attending classes regularly, which is a prerequisite for obtaining a learner's permit. Just as the Driving Log records the practical hours needed for driving, the Verification of Enrollment and Attendance Form confirms the student's commitment to their education while learning to drive.

Another similar document is the Texas Driver Handbook, which serves as a comprehensive guide for new drivers. This handbook outlines the rules of the road, safe driving practices, and essential information that every driver should know. Like the Driving Log, which emphasizes practical skills and driving experience, the Texas Driver Handbook provides the foundational knowledge necessary for safe driving, reinforcing the importance of understanding both theory and practice.

Lastly, the Insurance Verification Document parallels the Texas DPS Driving Log in its focus on safety and compliance. This document confirms that the vehicle used for driving practice is insured, which is a critical aspect of responsible driving. Just as the Driving Log records practice hours to ensure the student is adequately prepared, the Insurance Verification Document ensures that the vehicle is protected, promoting a culture of safety and accountability among new drivers.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Texas DPS Driving Log form, here are five things you should do:

  • Ensure all fields are filled out completely, including the student’s name and driver’s license number.
  • Record the practice session date, time, and hours accurately for both daytime and nighttime driving.
  • Have the supervising adult sign and provide their driver’s license number for verification.
  • Review the recommended practice hours for each driving skill and adhere to them.
  • Keep a copy of the completed log for your records before submitting it to the Department of Public Safety.

Here are five things you shouldn't do:

  • Do not skip any required fields; incomplete forms may lead to delays in processing.
  • Avoid recording more than one hour of behind-the-wheel instruction per day.
  • Do not falsify any information; honesty is crucial for compliance and safety.
  • Refrain from using the log for practice hours that do not meet the criteria set by the Texas Department of Public Safety.
  • Do not forget to bring the log along with other required documents when applying for the provisional license.

Misconceptions

Understanding the Texas DPS Driving Log form is essential for parents and guardians of young drivers. However, several misconceptions exist regarding this form. Here are six common misunderstandings:

  • All driving hours count towards the 20-hour requirement. Only one hour of behind-the-wheel instruction per day is counted, regardless of how many hours are actually driven that day.
  • Nighttime driving hours are not necessary. At least 10 of the 20 required hours must be completed during nighttime driving to ensure comprehensive experience.
  • Any adult can supervise the driving practice. The supervising adult must meet specific requirements outlined in Section 521.222 (d)(2) of the Transportation Code.
  • The log can be filled out after the driving sessions. It is crucial to complete the log immediately after each practice session to ensure accuracy and compliance.
  • Completing the log guarantees a provisional license. The log is only one part of the requirements. Other documents, such as the DE-964 certificate and a valid learner's license, must also be submitted.
  • Driving practice can occur anywhere without restrictions. It is recommended to practice in safe environments, such as empty parking lots, before progressing to more complex driving situations.

Clarifying these misconceptions can help ensure that young drivers meet all necessary requirements and are adequately prepared for their provisional license.

Key takeaways

Filling out and using the Texas DPS Driving Log form is an essential step for young drivers working towards their provisional license. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Complete 20 Hours of Practice: The log requires a total of 20 hours of behind-the-wheel practice, which must be supervised by an adult who meets specific legal requirements.
  • Daily Hour Limit: Only one hour of practice per day counts towards the total. This means that even if a student drives for several hours in a day, only one hour will be recorded.
  • Practice Sessions: The log outlines recommended practice areas, including getting ready, moving, stopping, turning, and driving in various environments like city streets and expressways.
  • Nighttime Driving: At least 10 of the required 20 hours must be completed during nighttime to ensure the young driver gains experience in low-light conditions.
  • Documentation Required: When applying for a provisional license, the completed log must be submitted alongside other documents, including a learner’s license and a verification of enrollment form.
  • Vehicle Requirements: The vehicle used for the road test must pass inspection, which includes having a valid inspection sticker, registration, and current insurance.
  • Adult Supervision: The supervising adult must sign the log, confirming that the practice hours were completed and that the record is accurate.
  • Practice Makes Perfect: Focus on specific skills during practice sessions, such as steering, lane positioning, and decision-making, to prepare for real-world driving scenarios.
  • Use Resources: The Texas Education Agency provides a Behind-the-Wheel Instruction Guide that can be downloaded for additional guidance on effective driving practice.

By following these key points, young drivers can ensure they are well-prepared for their driving tests and safe on the road.