What Is the Concurrent Method vs the Block Method
Texas allows two approaches to sequencing the classroom and behind-the-wheel portions of the PTDE program. Most families use the concurrent method, but both are valid.
Concurrent Method
The teen completes Module 1 (6 hours), passes the DPS exam, gets the Learner's Permit, and then works on Modules 2–12 and the 44 BTW hours at the same time.
Step | Concurrent Method |
Complete Module 1 (6 hrs) | ✅ First |
Get Learner's Permit | ✅ Immediately after Module 1 |
Start BTW training | ✅ Once permit is in hand |
Complete Modules 2–12 | ✅ Simultaneously with BTW |
6-month clock starts | ✅ From permit issuance date |
Why concurrent is preferred: The 6-month permit holding period starts the day the permit is issued. Getting the permit as early as possible — after Module 1 — means the 6-month clock starts running while the teen finishes the rest of the course and accumulates driving hours. Everything progresses in parallel.
Block Method
The teen completes all 24 hours of classroom instruction first, then gets the Learner's Permit, then starts BTW training.
Step | Block Method |
Complete all 24 classroom hours | ✅ First |
Get Learner's Permit | ✅ After all 24 hours |
Start BTW training | ✅ Once permit is in hand |
6-month clock starts | ✅ From permit issuance date — later than concurrent |
The downside of block: The 6-month clock does not start until the permit is issued — which happens after all 24 hours of classroom instruction are done. This delays the earliest possible Provisional License date compared to concurrent.
Which Method to Choose
Consideration | Concurrent | Block |
6-month clock starts | Earlier | Later |
Earliest Provisional License | Sooner | Later |
Common? | Yes — most families | Less common |
Both valid? | Yes | Yes |
For most families, the concurrent method is the better choice simply because it gets the permit clock running earlier. There is no educational benefit to the block method — both result in the same certificates and meet the same requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the family switch methods after starting? Yes. If the family begins with the block method but decides to get the permit earlier, they can visit DPS after Module 1 and switch to the concurrent approach. Let us know if you have questions about how this affects course progress.
Does the choice of method affect the certificates? No. Both DE-964 certificates are issued based on course completion milestones, not on which method was used.
Is the concurrent method riskier in any way? No. Both methods are fully compliant with TDLR requirements. The concurrent method is simply the more efficient option for families who want to complete the full process as early as possible.