Beginning September 1st, there’s a new requirement for acquiring a Texas driver’s license

Texas continues to crack down on the state’s distracted driving problem with a new requirement for drivers.

To educate drivers about the dangers of distracted driving, the Texas Department of Public Safety is now requiring certain drivers to complete a training course before obtaining a driver’s license.

Starting September 1, individuals 18 and older must take the Impact Texas Young Drivers (ITYD) course in order to obtain a Texas driver’s license. Drivers renewing their driver’s license do not need to take the test.

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“This important program is intended to provide Texan drivers with important information so that they can focus on driving – and ultimately save lives on Texan roads,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw in a press release.

All applicants for the skill test aged 18 and over must complete the free ITYD course. Drivers between the ages of 18 and 24 must also complete the 6-hour adult driver training course prior to the proficiency test.

ITYD is a one hour driver education program that uses research and real stories to uncover some of the dangers motorists face.

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This is the second course offered as part of the Impact Texas Driver program developed in 2015. The first course, Impact Texas Teen Drivers, was aimed at 16- and 17-year-olds.

An adult course especially for drivers 35 and over will be announced in 2018. For now, these drivers must also take the ITYD course.

jthorpe@express-news.net

@jerilynnthorpe