What Is the TDLR PTDE Packet and Do I Need It Before Starting
Yes — the PTDE Packet must be ordered before the teen starts the course. It is a separate $20 purchase from TDLR that officially enrolls the teen in the Parent-Taught Driver Education program and registers the parent as the instructor of record.
What the PTDE Packet Is
The PTDE Program Guide is a document issued by TDLR that:
Officially authorizes the parent or designated adult to instruct the teen
Contains the program rules, forms, and requirements
Includes the driving log the parent uses to record BTW hours
Is required by DPS when the teen applies for the Learner's Permit and the Provisional License
Where to Order It
Order the PTDE Packet directly from TDLR at tdlr.texas.gov. It costs $20 and is delivered instantly by email. This is completely separate from the Driving Logic course fee of $59.95 — two separate purchases.
Why It Must Come First
The PTDE Packet must be received before the teen begins the course because DPS requires the packet receipt as proof of enrollment in the PTDE program when the teen applies for their Learner's Permit. Starting the course before ordering the packet can create complications at the DPS counter.
What the Packet Contains
Program overview and legal requirements
Instructor eligibility requirements and affidavit
Driving log for tracking BTW hours (observation, instruction, practice)
Forms required at the Learner's Permit and Provisional License DPS visits
Instructions for the designation form if using a non-family instructor
Quick Facts
Detail | Information |
Required before starting course | Yes |
Cost | $20 |
Ordered from | TDLR — tdlr.texas.gov |
Delivery | Instant by email |
Separate from Driving Logic fee | Yes — $59.95 course + $20 PTDE Packet = $79.95 total out of pocket before DPS fees |
Required at DPS | Yes — at Learner's Permit and Provisional License stages |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my teen start the course while waiting for the PTDE Packet? Technically the packet is delivered instantly by email, so waiting should not be an issue. However, starting before the packet arrives is not recommended — the DPS requires the packet at the Learner's Permit stage and any timing gap can cause complications.
Is the PTDE Packet the same as Driving Logic's course? No. They are two separate things. Driving Logic provides the 24-hour online classroom curriculum. The PTDE Packet is a TDLR program document ordered separately. You need both.
What if I lose the PTDE Packet? The packet is delivered by email — check your inbox and spam folder. If it is lost, contact TDLR directly to request a reissue. This is a TDLR document and Driving Logic cannot reissue it.
Does the PTDE Packet expire? No. The packet itself does not expire. However, the information entered when ordering (student name, instructor name) must match the documents presented at the DPS. Corrections require written consent and additional process.
Can I order the PTDE Packet at the same time I enroll in Driving Logic? Yes. Many families order both on the same day. Since the packet arrives by email instantly, you can receive it and start the course the same day.