Do I Need a Driving Log and How Does It Work
Yes. The parent instructor is required to keep a detailed driving log of all 44 behind-the-wheel hours. The log is included in the TDLR PTDE Program Guide (the $20 packet ordered from TDLR) and must be submitted at the DPS when the teen applies for their Provisional License.
What the Driving Log Tracks
The log records each BTW session including:
Date of each session
Type of session (observation, instruction, or practice)
Duration of the session
Supervising adult's name and relationship to the teen
Running total of hours completed by type
Parent instructor's signature
Entries must be accurate and match the actual BTW training that occurred. The driving log is a legal document — the parent signs an affidavit confirming its accuracy.
Why It Is Required
The DPS requires proof that all 44 BTW hours were completed as required before issuing the Provisional License. The signed driving log is that proof. Without it, the Provisional License application cannot be processed.
Where to Find the Driving Log
The driving log is on page 11 of the PTDE Program Guide from TDLR. It is not provided by Driving Logic — it is part of the $20 PTDE Packet. Some families also use digital driving log apps to track hours and then transfer to the official log for submission.
Tips for Keeping the Log
Log each session immediately after it happens — do not try to reconstruct hours from memory later
Record night driving sessions clearly — 10 of the 30 practice hours must be at night
Have the parent instructor sign each entry as sessions are completed rather than all at once at the end
Keep a backup — photograph or scan the log periodically in case the paper is lost
Quick Facts
Detail | Information |
Driving log required | Yes |
Provided by | TDLR PTDE Program Guide — not Driving Logic |
Total hours to log | 44 (7 obs + 7 instruction + 30 practice including 10 night) |
Required at | Provisional License DPS application |
Who signs it | Parent instructor — under affidavit |
Digital alternatives | Allowed for tracking, but official form must be submitted |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we use a driving log app instead of the paper form? Apps can help track hours during the process, but the official PTDE Program Guide log form must be submitted at the DPS. Many families use an app for convenience and then transfer the data to the official form.
What if we forgot to log some sessions and cannot remember the exact dates? The log must be accurate. If dates were not recorded at the time, do your best to reconstruct from calendars, phone records, or other documentation. Contact TDLR if you have questions about how to handle gaps.
What if the driving log is lost? If the original is lost, reconstruction may be necessary. This is why photographing or scanning the log periodically as sessions are completed is strongly recommended.
Does Driving Logic verify or review the driving log? No. The driving log is entirely between the parent instructor and TDLR/DPS. Driving Logic provides the classroom curriculum only and has no involvement in BTW hour tracking or verification.
Are there daily limits I need to track in the log? Yes. BTW instruction (the 7 instructor-supervised hours) is capped at 2 hours per day. Log each session by date so the daily limit is documented accurately.