General & Scheduling Questions
How do we schedule the behind-the-wheel driving lessons?
Once a student is enrolled and has their learner's permit, driving lessons are scheduled directly with our office. We offer flexible scheduling with lessons available on weekdays and weekends to accommodate busy school and work schedules. For Adult Students: You can call our office & For Teen: use our online booking portal (if applicable) to see available slots and book your sessions.
How does scheduling for the DPS Road Test work?
As a certified third-party testing center, we can administer the official DPS Road Test right here at Paetow Driving School. This allows you to avoid long waits at the DPS. Simply call our office to schedule your test once all other state requirements (coursework, driving hours, ITAD/ITTD video) are complete. We offer test slots throughout the week for your convenience.
What if we need to reschedule a driving lesson or road test?
We understand that schedules change. Please contact our office at least 24-48 hours in advance to reschedule a driving lesson or road test. Please note that a rescheduling fee may apply for changes made on or after the registration date, as outlined in your contract.
Teen Program Questions (Ages 15-17)
What is the first step for the Complete Teen Course?
The first step is to enroll in our Complete Teen Course. Students can begin the 24-hour classroom portion at age 15. After the first 6 hours of class, we will administer the official permit test here at our school, allowing your teen to get their learner's permit.
My teen took an online course. Can they do just the driving part with you?
Yes! Our "Teen Behind-The-Wheel (BTW) Only" course is designed specifically for this. We will provide the full 14 hours of state-required in-car training with our professional instructors.
Key Teen Document: The DE-964 Certificate This is the most important document in teen driver education. We issue it after the first 6 hours of class (so you can get a permit) and then provide the final, completed version after all coursework and driving hours are done (so you can get a license).
What is the ITTD and when should my teen take it?
The Impact Texas Teen Drivers (ITTD) is a free, mandatory 2-hour video course from the DPS about the dangers of distracted driving. Your teen must complete this video *after* finishing all classroom and behind-the-wheel hours with us, and the certificate is only valid for 90 days. They must have a valid ITTD certificate on the day of their road test.
Adult Program Questions (Ages 18+)
I'm 19. Do I have to take a course to get my license?
Yes. In Texas, it is mandatory for all new drivers aged 18-24 to complete a 6-hour Adult Driver Education course. Our "Adult Permit Course" fulfills this requirement and includes the official written test. Skip that step at the DPS when you do the Road test with Us.
I'm over 25. Do I need the 6-hour course?
While it's not mandatory for new drivers 25 and older, it is highly recommended. Completing our 6-hour course allows you to waive the written knowledge test at the DPS office, saving you time and stress. It's also a great way to learn Texas traffic laws and build confidence.
What is the difference between the "Adult Full Course" and "Adult Permit Course + Road Test"?
The "Adult Full Course" is our all-inclusive package that includes the 6-hour course, the road test, AND a set of behind-the-wheel driving lessons with an instructor. The "Adult Permit Course + Road Test" package is for more confident drivers and includes only the 6-hour course and the road test, without the extra driving lessons.
What is the ITAD and when should I take it?
The Impact Texas Adult Drivers (ITAD) is a free, mandatory 1-hour video from the DPS about distracted driving. You must complete this video *after* finishing your 6-hour course but *before* taking your road test. The certificate is only valid for 90 days, so be sure to have a valid one on your test day.
Defensive Driving Questions
Is the Defensive Driving course the same as the 6-hour Adult course for getting a license?
No, they are two different courses for different purposes. The 6-hour Adult Driver Education course is for new drivers seeking a license. The 6-hour Defensive Driving course is for existing licensed drivers who want to dismiss a traffic ticket or get an insurance discount.
How do I know if I am eligible to take defensive driving for ticket dismissal?
You must request permission from the court that issued your ticket before enrolling in the course. The court will provide you with the necessary paperwork and deadlines. Our course is approved for all courts in Texas.