In Texas, once you pass your driver education course and are ready to take the driving test then you may have a long delay for a test at your local DPS location. This is especially true for those who live in larger cities.
The State of Texas allows for a “Third Party Skills Testing Program” (link here) which says:
The Third Party Skills Testing (TPST) program authorizes Driver Education schools that have been certified by the Department to administer the driving test for Class C non-commercial driver license applicants. This program is intended to ensure you have the knowledge and skills needed to safely operate a motor vehicle, and also reduces the time you must wait to take your driving test.
Approved Driver Education schools have undergone a certification process by the Department which includes:
- Testing of the Driver Education school instructors
- Audit and approval of the drive route used for the drive test
(For information on becoming a TPST authorized organization or examiner, visit How to Become a TPST Provider.)
You may be able to complete the drive test at an approved Driver Education school for the issuance of your Texas driver license, provided you meet the following criteria:
If you are 16 years of age or older:
https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/third-party-skills-testing-program
- Possess a valid DE-964 showing you have completed a Minors Driver Education Course
- Have held a valid learner license for a minimum of six months
- Complete the ITD requirements by viewing the Impact Texas Teen Drivers (ITTD) video. The certificate of completion must be dated within 90 days prior to taking the drive test.
This video from an instructor on the border of Richardson and Garland takes you through a possible Third Party Skills Test driving route:
English