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2015 Texas Statutes
EDUCATION CODE
TITLE 5 - OTHER EDUCATION
CHAPTER 1001 - DRIVER AND TRAFFIC SAFETY EDUCATION

EDUCATION CODE

TITLE 5. OTHER EDUCATION

CHAPTER 1001. DRIVER AND TRAFFIC SAFETY EDUCATION

SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS

Sec. 1001.001. DEFINITIONS. In this chapter:

(1) Repealed by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 , Sec. 70(a)(1), eff. September 1, 2015.

(2) "Approved driving safety course" means a driving safety course approved by the department.

(3) "Commission" means the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation.

(4) "Course provider" means an enterprise that:

(A) maintains a place of business or solicits business in this state;

(B) is operated by an individual, association, partnership, or corporation; and

(C) has received an approval for a driving safety course from the department or has been designated by a person who has received that approval to conduct business and represent the person in this state.

(5) "Department" means the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.

(6) "Driver education" means a nonvocational course of instruction that provides the knowledge and hands-on experience to prepare persons for written and practical driving tests that lead to authorization to operate a vehicle.

(7) "Driver education school" means an enterprise that:

(A) maintains a place of business or solicits business in this state; and

(B) is operated by an individual, association, partnership, or corporation for educating and training persons at a primary or branch location in driver education or driver education instructor development.

(8) "Driver training" means:

(A) driver education provided by a driver education school; or

(B) driving safety training provided by a driving safety school.

(9) "Driver training school" means a driver education school or driving safety school.

(10) "Driver training school employee" means a person, other than an owner, who directly or indirectly receives compensation from a driver training school for instructional or other services rendered.

(11) "Driver training school owner" means:

(A) in the case of a driver training school owned by an individual, the individual;

(B) in the case of a driver training school owned by a partnership, all full, silent, or limited partners; or

(C) in the case of a driver training school owned by a corporation, the corporation, its directors and officers, and each shareholder owning at least 10 percent of the total of the outstanding shares.

(12) "Driving safety course" means a course of instruction intended to improve a driver's knowledge, perception, and attitude about driving.

(13) "Driving safety school" means an enterprise that:

(A) maintains a place of business or solicits business in this state; and

(B) is operated by an individual, association, partnership, or corporation for educating and training persons in driving safety.

(13-a) "Executive director" means the executive director of the department.

(14) "Instructor" means an individual who holds a license for the type of instruction being given.

(14-a) "National criminal history record information" has the meaning assigned by Section 22.081.

(15) "Person" means an individual, firm, partnership, association, corporation, or other private entity or combination of persons.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 820 (H.B. 2678), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2011.

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2015.

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 70(a)(1), eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.002. EXEMPTIONS. (a) An organization is exempt from this chapter if the organization:

(1) has 50,000 or more members;

(2) qualifies for a tax exemption under Section 501(a), Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as an organization described by Section 501(c)(4) of that code; and

(3) conducts for its members and other individuals who are at least 50 years of age a driving safety course that is not used for purposes of Article 45.0511, Code of Criminal Procedure.

(b) A driving safety course is exempt from this chapter if the course is taught without providing a uniform certificate of course completion to a person who successfully completes the course.

(1) conducted by a vocational driver training school operated to train or prepare a person for a field of endeavor in a business, trade, technical, or industrial occupation;

(2) conducted by a school or training program that offers only instruction of purely avocational or recreational subjects as determined by the department;

(3) sponsored by an employer to train its own employees without charging tuition;

(4) sponsored by a recognized trade, business, or professional organization with a closed membership to instruct the members of the organization; or

(5) conducted by a school regulated and approved under another law of this state.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.003. LEGISLATIVE INTENT REGARDING SMALL BUSINESSES. It is the intent of the legislature that commission rules that affect driver training schools that qualify as small businesses be adopted and administered so as to have the least possible adverse economic effect on the schools.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 5, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.004. COST OF ADMINISTERING CHAPTER. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), the cost of administering this chapter shall be included in the state budget allowance for the department.

(b) The department may charge a fee to each driver education school in an amount not to exceed the actual expense incurred in the regulation of driver education courses established under Section 1001.1015.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1253 (H.B. 339), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2009.

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1413 (S.B. 1317), Sec. 4, eff. March 1, 2010.

Reenacted and amended by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 6, eff. September 1, 2015.

SUBCHAPTER B. POWERS AND DUTIES

Sec. 1001.051. JURISDICTION OVER SCHOOLS. The department has jurisdiction over and control of driver training schools regulated under this chapter.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 7, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.052. RULES. The commission shall adopt comprehensive rules governing driving safety courses.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 7, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.053. POWERS AND DUTIES OF DEPARTMENT, COMMISSION, AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR. (a) The department and executive director, as appropriate, shall:

(1) administer this chapter;

(2) enforce minimum standards for driver training schools under this chapter;

(3) enforce rules adopted by the commission that are necessary to administer this chapter; and

(4) inspect a driver training school or course provider and reinspect the school or course provider for compliance with this chapter.

(b) The executive director may designate a person knowledgeable in the administration of regulating driver training schools to administer this chapter.

(c) The commission shall adopt rules necessary to administer this chapter. The commission may adopt rules to ensure the integrity of approved driving safety courses and to enhance program quality.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 7, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.054. RULES RESTRICTING ADVERTISING. (a) Repealed by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 , Sec. 70(a)(2), eff. September 1, 2015.

(b) Repealed by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 , Sec. 70(a)(2), eff. September 1, 2015.

(c) The commission by rule may restrict advertising by a branch location of a driver training school so that the location adequately identifies the primary location of the school in a solicitation.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 8, eff. September 1, 2015.

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 9, eff. September 1, 2015.

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 70(a)(2), eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.055. DRIVER EDUCATION CERTIFICATES AND CERTIFICATE NUMBERS. (a) The department shall provide to each licensed or exempt driver education school and to each parent-taught course provider approved under this chapter driver education certificates or certificate numbers to enable the school or approved parent-taught course provider to print and issue department-approved driver education certificates to certify completion of an approved driver education course and satisfy the requirements of Sections 521.204(a)(2), Transportation Code, 521.1601, Transportation Code, as added by Chapter 1253 (H.B. 339), Acts of the 81st Legislature, Regular Session, 2009, and 521.1601, Transportation Code, as added by Chapter 1413 (S.B. 1317), Acts of the 81st Legislature, Regular Session, 2009.

(a-1) A certificate printed and issued by a driver education school or parent-taught course provider approved under this chapter must:

(1) be in a form required by the department; and

(2) include an identifying certificate number provided by the department that may be used to verify the authenticity of the certificate with the driver education school or approved parent-taught course provider.

(a-2) A driver education school or parent-taught course provider approved under this chapter that purchases driver education certificate numbers shall provide for the printing and issuance of original and duplicate certificates in a manner that, to the greatest extent possible, prevents the unauthorized production or the misuse of the certificates. The driver education school or approved parent-taught course provider shall electronically submit to the department in the manner established by the department data identified by the department relating to issuance of department-approved driver education certificates with the certificate numbers.

(a-3) Certificate numbers must be in serial order so that the number on each issued certificate is unique.

(b) The commission by rule shall provide for the design and distribution of the certificates and certificate numbers in a manner that, to the greatest extent possible, prevents the unauthorized reproduction or misuse of the certificates or certificate numbers.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1253 (H.B. 339), Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2009.

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1413 (S.B. 1317), Sec. 5, eff. March 1, 2010.

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 820 (H.B. 2678), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2011.

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 10, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.056. UNIFORM CERTIFICATES OF COURSE COMPLETION. (a) In this section, "operator" means a person approved by a course provider to conduct an approved driving safety course.

(b) The department shall provide each licensed course provider with course completion certificate numbers to enable the provider to print and issue department-approved uniform certificates of course completion.

(b-1) Certificate numbering under Subsection (b) must be serial.

(c) The commission by rule shall provide for the design of the certificates and the distribution of certificate numbers in a manner that, to the greatest extent possible, prevents the unauthorized production or the misuse of the certificates or certificate numbers.

(c-1) A course provider shall provide for the printing and issuance of original and duplicate certificates in a manner that, to the greatest extent possible, prevents the unauthorized production or the misuse of the certificates.

(d) A certificate under this section must:

(1) be in a form required by the department; and

(2) include an identifying number by which the department, a court, or the Department of Public Safety may verify its authenticity with the course provider.

(e) The commission by rule shall establish a fee for each course completion certificate number. A course provider that supplies a certificate to an operator shall collect from the operator a fee equal to the amount of the fee paid to the department for the certificate number.

(f) A course provider license entitles a course provider to purchase certificate numbers for only one approved driving safety course.

(g) A course provider shall issue a duplicate certificate by United States mail or commercial delivery. The commission by rule shall determine the amount of the fee for issuance of a duplicate certificate under this subsection.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 928 (H.B. 468), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2005.

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 11, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.057. ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION OF DRIVING SAFETY COURSE INFORMATION. The department shall investigate options to develop and implement procedures to electronically transmit information relating to driving safety courses to municipal and justice courts.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 12, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.058. ADVISORY COMMITTEE. (a) The commission shall establish an advisory committee to advise the commission and department on rules and educational and technical matters relevant to the administration of this chapter.

(b) The advisory committee consists of eleven members appointed for staggered six-year terms by the presiding officer of the commission, with the approval of the commission, as follows:

(1) one member representing a driver education school that offers a traditional classroom course and in-car training;

(2) one member representing a driver education school that offers a traditional classroom course, alternative methods of instruction, or in-car training;

(3) one member representing a driving safety school offering a traditional classroom course or providing an alternative method of instruction;

(4) one member representing a driving safety course provider approved for a traditional classroom course and for an alternative method of instruction;

(5) one member representing a driving safety course provider approved for a traditional classroom course or for an alternative method of instruction;

(6) one licensed instructor;

(7) one representative of the Department of Public Safety;

(8) one member representing a drug and alcohol driving awareness program course provider;

(9) one member representing a parent-taught course provider; and

(10) two members representing the public.

(c) The presiding officer of the commission shall appoint the presiding officer of the advisory committee. The presiding officer of the advisory committee may vote on any matter before the advisory committee.

(d) A member may not serve two consecutive full terms.

(e) If a vacancy occurs during a term, the presiding officer of the commission, with the approval of the commission, shall appoint a replacement who meets the qualifications of the vacated position to serve for the remainder of the term.

(f) A member of the advisory committee may be removed from the advisory committee as provided by Section 51.209, Occupations Code.

(g) Members of the advisory committee may not receive compensation but are entitled to reimbursement for actual and necessary expenses incurred in performing the functions of the advisory committee, subject to the General Appropriations Act.

(h) The committee shall meet at the call of the presiding officer of the commission.

(i) Chapter 2110, Government Code, does not apply to the advisory committee.

Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 13, eff. September 1, 2015.

SUBCHAPTER C. OPERATION OF DRIVER EDUCATION SCHOOL

Sec. 1001.101. ADULT AND MINOR DRIVER EDUCATION COURSE CURRICULUM AND TEXTBOOKS. (a) The commission by rule shall establish or approve the curriculum and designate the educational materials to be used in a driver education course for minors and adults, including a driver education course conducted by a school district, driver education school, or parent or other individual under this chapter.

(b) A driver education course must require the student to complete:

(1) 7 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction in the presence of a person who holds a driver education instructor license or who meets the requirements for a driver education course conducted by a parent or other individual under Section 1001.112;

(2) 7 hours of observation instruction in the presence of a person who holds a driver education instructor license or who meets the requirements for a driver education course conducted by a parent or other individual under Section 1001.112; and

(3) 30 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction, including at least 10 hours of instruction that takes place at night, in the presence of an adult who meets the requirements of Section 521.222(d)(2), Transportation Code.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1253 (H.B. 339), Sec. 5, eff. September 1, 2009.

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1413 (S.B. 1317), Sec. 6, eff. March 1, 2010.

Reenacted and amended by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 716 (H.B. 3483), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2013.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 15, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.1015. ADULT DRIVER EDUCATION COURSE CURRICULUM AND EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS. (a) The commission by rule shall establish the curriculum and designate the educational materials to be used in a driver education course exclusively for adults.

(b) A driver education course under Subsection (a) must:

(1) be a six-hour course; and

(2) include instruction in:

(A) alcohol and drug awareness;

(B) the traffic laws of this state;

(D) the issues commonly associated with motor vehicle accidents, including poor decision-making, risk taking, impaired driving, distraction, speed, failure to use a safety belt, driving at night, failure to yield the right-of-way, and using a wireless communication device while operating a vehicle.

(d) A driving safety course or a drug and alcohol driving awareness program may not be approved as a driver education course under Subsection (a).

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1253 (H.B. 339), Sec. 6, eff. September 1, 2009.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 16, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.102. ALCOHOL AWARENESS INFORMATION. (a) The commission by rule shall require that information relating to alcohol awareness and the effect of alcohol on the effective operation of a motor vehicle be included in the curriculum of any driver education course or driving safety course.

(b) In developing rules under this section, the commission shall consult with the Department of Public Safety.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 17, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.1025. MOTORCYCLE AWARENESS INFORMATION. (a) The commission by rule shall require that information relating to motorcycle awareness, the dangers of failing to yield the right-of-way to a motorcyclist, and the need to share the road with motorcyclists be included in the curriculum of any driver education course or driving safety course.

(b) In developing rules under this section, the commission shall consult with the Department of Public Safety.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1391 (S.B. 1967), Sec. 11, eff. September 1, 2009.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 18, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.103. DRUG AND ALCOHOL DRIVING AWARENESS PROGRAMS. (a) In this section, "drug and alcohol driving awareness program" means a course with emphasis on curricula designed to prevent or deter misuse and abuse of controlled substances.

(b) The department shall develop standards for a separate school certification and approve curricula for drug and alcohol driving awareness programs that include one or more courses. Except as provided by commission rule, a program must be offered in the same manner as a driving safety course.

(c) The standards under Subsection (b) may require a course provider to evaluate procedures, projects, techniques, and controls conducted as part of the program.

(d) The department and the Department of State Health Services shall enter into a memorandum of understanding for the interagency approval of the required curricula.

(e) The commission may establish fees in connection with the programs under this section. The fees must be in amounts reasonable and necessary to administer the department's duties under this section.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 19, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.104. HOSPITAL AND REHABILITATION FACILITIES. (a) The department shall enter into a memorandum of understanding with the state agency responsible for administering the vocational rehabilitation program under Subtitle C, Title 4, Labor Code, and the Department of Public Safety for the interagency development of curricula and licensing criteria for hospital and rehabilitation facilities that teach driver education.

(b) The department shall administer comprehensive rules governing driver education courses developed through interagency cooperation between the commission, the state agency responsible for administering the vocational rehabilitation program under Subtitle C, Title 4, Labor Code, and the Department of Public Safety.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 20, eff. September 1, 2015.

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1138 (S.B. 208), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.105. TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE. The department shall enter into a memorandum of understanding with the Texas Department of Insurance for the development of a curriculum for driving safety courses.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 20, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.106. INFORMATION RELATING TO RAILROAD AND HIGHWAY GRADE CROSSING SAFETY. (a) A driving safety course must include information on railroad and highway grade crossing safety.

(b) The commission by rule shall provide minimum standards of curriculum relating to operation of vehicles at railroad and highway grade crossings.

(c) Subchapter F, Chapter 51, Occupations Code, and Section 51.353, Occupations Code, do not apply to a violation of this section or a rule adopted under this section.

(d) Section 51.352, Occupations Code, and Sections 1001.455(a)(6) and 1001.554 of this code do not apply to a violation of this section.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 21, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.107. INFORMATION RELATING TO LITTER PREVENTION. (a) The commission by rule shall require that information relating to litter prevention be included in the curriculum of each driver education and driving safety course.

(b) In developing rules under this section, the commission shall consult the Department of Public Safety.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 22, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.108. INFORMATION RELATING TO ANATOMICAL GIFTS. (a) The commission by rule shall require that information relating to anatomical gifts be included in the curriculum of each driver education course and driving safety course.

(b) The curriculum must include information about each matter listed in Section 49.001(a), Health and Safety Code.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 23, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.110. INFORMATION RELATING TO DRIVING DISTRACTIONS. (a) The commission by rule shall require that information relating to the effect of using a wireless communication device or engaging in other actions that may distract a driver on the safe or effective operation of a motor vehicle be included in the curriculum of each driver education course or driving safety course.

(b) In developing rules under this section, the commission shall consult with the Department of Public Safety.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 516 (S.B. 1107), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1253 (H.B. 339), Sec. 7, eff. September 1, 2009.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 24, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.111. DRIVING SAFETY COURSE FOR DRIVER YOUNGER THAN 25 YEARS OF AGE. (a) The commission by rule shall provide minimum standards of curriculum for and designate the educational materials to be used in a driving safety course designed for drivers younger than 25 years of age.

(b) A driving safety course designed for drivers younger than 25 years of age must:

(1) be a four-hour live, interactive course focusing on issues specific to drivers younger than 25 years of age;

(2) include instruction in:

(A) alcohol and drug awareness;

(B) the traffic laws of this state;

(D) the issues commonly associated with motor vehicle accidents involving drivers younger than 25 years of age, including poor decision-making, risk taking, impaired driving, distraction, speed, failure to use a safety belt, driving at night, failure to yield the right-of-way, and using a wireless communication device while operating a vehicle, and the role of peer pressure in those issues;

(E) the effect of poor driver decision-making on the family, friends, school, and community of a driver younger than 25 years of age; and

(F) the importance of taking control of potentially dangerous driving situations both as a driver and as a passenger; and

(3) require a written commitment by the student to family and friends that the student will not engage in dangerous driving habits.

Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 914 (S.B. 1330), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2011.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 25, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.112. PARENT-TAUGHT DRIVER EDUCATION. (a) The commission by rule shall provide for approval of a driver education course conducted by the parent, stepparent, foster parent, legal guardian, grandparent, or step-grandparent of a person who is required to complete a driver education course to obtain a Class C license. The rules must provide that the student driver spend a minimum number of hours in classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction and that the person conducting the course:

(1) possess a valid license for the preceding three years that has not been suspended, revoked, or forfeited in the past three years for an offense that involves the operation of a motor vehicle;

(2) has not been convicted of:

(A) criminally negligent homicide; or

(B) driving while intoxicated;

(3) is not disabled because of mental illness; and

(4) does not have six or more points assigned to the person's driver's license under Subchapter B, Chapter 708, Transportation Code, at the time the person begins conducting the course.

(b) The department may approve a course described by Subsection (a) if the department determines that the course materials are at least equal to those required in a course approved by the department, and the department may not require that:

(1) the classroom instruction be provided in a room with particular characteristics or equipment; or

(2) the vehicle used for the behind-the-wheel instruction have equipment other than the equipment otherwise required by law for operation of the vehicle on a highway while the vehicle is not being used for driver training.

(1) approval of a course is obtained;

(2) an applicant submits proof of completion of the course;

(3) approval for delivering course materials by an alternative method, including electronic means, is obtained;

(4) a provider of a course approved under this section may administer to an applicant the highway sign and traffic law parts of the examination as provided by Section 521.1655(a-1), Transportation Code, through electronic means; and

(5) an applicant submits proof of passage of an examination administered under Subdivision (4).

(d) Completion of a driver education course approved under this section has the same effect under this chapter as completion of a driver education course approved by the department.

Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 26, eff. September 1, 2015.

SUBCHAPTER D. FEES

Sec. 1001.151. APPLICATION, LICENSE, AND REGISTRATION FEES. (a) The commission by rule shall establish application, license, and registration fees. The fees must be in amounts sufficient to cover administrative costs and are nonrefundable. The department shall collect the application, license, and registration fees.

(b) The commission by rule shall establish a fee for:

(1) an initial driver education school license and for each branch location;

(2) an initial driving safety school license;

(3) an initial course provider license, except that the executive director may waive the fee;

(4) the annual renewal for a course provider, driving safety school, driver education school, or branch location, except that the executive director may waive the fee if revenue generated by the issuance of course completion certificate numbers and driver education certificates is sufficient to cover the cost of administering this chapter and Article 45.0511, Code of Criminal Procedure;

(5) a change of address of a driver education school, driving safety school, or course provider;

(6) a change of name of:

(A) a driver education school or course provider or an owner of a driver education school or course provider; or

(B) a driving safety school or owner of a driving safety school;

(7) each additional driver education or driving safety course at a driver training school; and

(8) an initial application for approval of a driving safety course that has not been evaluated by the department.

(c) An application for an initial driver education or driving safety instructor license must be accompanied by a processing fee and an annual license fee, except that the department may not collect the processing fee from an applicant for a driver education instructor license who is currently teaching a driver education course in a public school in this state.

(d) The commission shall establish the amount of the fee for a duplicate license.

(e) The commission may establish a fee for an application for approval to offer a driver education course by an alternative method of instruction under Section 1001.3541.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 928 (H.B. 468), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2005.

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 131 (S.B. 858), Sec. 2, eff. May 23, 2009.

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 27, eff. September 1, 2015.

SUBCHAPTER E. LICENSING OF SCHOOLS AND COURSE PROVIDERS

Sec. 1001.201. LICENSE REQUIRED. A person may not:

(1) operate a school that provides a driver education course unless the person holds a driver education school license;

(2) operate a school that provides driving safety courses unless the person holds a driving safety school license; or

(3) operate as a course provider unless the person holds a course provider license.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Sec. 1001.202. LOCATIONS. (a) A driver education school that teaches a driver education course at one or more branch locations must obtain a separate driver education school license for its main business location and for each branch location. A driver education school may not operate a branch location of a branch location.

(b) A driving safety school may use multiple classroom locations to teach a driving safety course if each location:

(1) is approved by the parent school and the department;

(2) has the same name as the parent school; and

(3) has the same ownership as the parent school.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 28, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.204. REQUIREMENTS FOR DRIVER EDUCATION SCHOOL LICENSE. (a) The commission by rule shall establish the criteria for a driver education school license.

(b) The department shall approve an application for a driver education school license if the application is submitted on a form approved by the executive director, includes the fee, and on inspection of the premises of the school, it is determined that the school:

(1) has courses, curricula, and instruction of a quality, content, and length that reasonably and adequately achieve the stated objective for which the courses, curricula, and instruction are offered;

(2) has adequate space, equipment, instructional material, and instructors to provide training of good quality in the classroom and behind the wheel;

(3) has instructors who have adequate educational qualifications and experience;

(4) provides to each student before enrollment:

(A) a copy of:

(i) the refund policy;

(ii) the schedule of tuition, fees, and other charges; and

(iii) the regulations relating to absence, grading policy, and rules of operation and conduct; and

(B) the department's name, mailing address, telephone number, and Internet website address for the purpose of directing complaints to the department;

(5) maintains adequate records as prescribed by the department to show attendance and progress or grades and enforces satisfactory standards relating to attendance, progress, and conduct;

(6) on completion of training, issues each student a certificate indicating the course name and satisfactory completion;

(7) complies with all county, municipal, state, and federal regulations, including fire, building, and sanitation codes and assumed name registration;

(8) is financially sound and capable of fulfilling its commitments for training;

(9) has owners and instructors who are of good reputation and character;

(10) maintains and publishes as part of its student enrollment contract the proper policy for the refund of the unused portion of tuition, fees, and other charges if a student fails to take the course or withdraws or is discontinued from the school at any time before completion;

(11) does not use erroneous or misleading advertising, either by actual statement, omission, or intimation, as determined by the department;

(12) does not use a name similar to the name of another existing school or tax-supported educational institution in this state, unless specifically approved in writing by the executive director;

(13) submits to the department for approval the applicable course hour lengths and curriculum content for each course offered by the school;

(14) does not owe an administrative penalty for a violation of this chapter; and

(15) meets any additional criteria required by the department.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 29, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.205. REQUIREMENTS FOR DRIVING SAFETY SCHOOL LICENSE. (a) The commission by rule shall establish the criteria for a driving safety school license.

(b) The department shall approve an application for a driving safety school license if the application is submitted on a form approved by the executive director, includes the fee, and on inspection of the premises of the school, the department determines that the school:

(1) has driving safety courses, curricula, and instruction of a quality, content, and length that reasonably and adequately achieve the stated objective for which the course, curricula, and instruction are developed by the course provider;

(2) has adequate space, equipment, instructional material, and instructors to provide training of good quality;

(3) has instructors who have adequate educational qualifications and experience;

(4) maintains adequate records as prescribed by the department to show attendance and progress or grades and enforces satisfactory standards relating to attendance, progress, and conduct;

(5) complies with all county, municipal, state, and federal laws, including fire, building, and sanitation codes and assumed name registration;

(6) has owners and instructors who are of good reputation and character;

(7) does not use erroneous or misleading advertising, either by actual statement, omission, or intimation, as determined by the department;

(8) does not use a name similar to the name of another existing school or tax-supported educational establishment in this state, unless specifically approved in writing by the executive director;

(9) maintains and uses the approved contract and policies developed by the course provider;

(10) does not owe an administrative penalty for a violation of this chapter;

(11) will not provide a driving safety course to a person for less than $25; and

(12) meets additional criteria required by the department.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 29, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.206. REQUIREMENTS FOR COURSE PROVIDER LICENSE. (a) The commission by rule shall establish criteria for a course provider license.

(b) The department shall approve an application for a course provider license if the application is submitted on a form approved by the executive director, includes the fee, and on inspection of the premises of the school the department determines that:

(1) the course provider has an approved course that at least one licensed driving safety school is willing to offer;

(2) the course provider has adequate educational qualifications and experience;

(3) the course provider will:

(A) develop and provide to each driving safety school that offers the approved course a copy of:

(i) the refund policy; and

(ii) the regulations relating to absence, grading policy, and rules of operation and conduct; and

(B) provide to the driving safety school the department's name, mailing address, telephone number, and Internet website address for the purpose of directing complaints to the department;

(4) a copy of the information provided to each driving safety school under Subdivision (3) will be provided to each student by the school before enrollment;

(5) not later than the 15th working day after the date a person successfully completes the course, the course provider will issue and deliver to the person by United States mail or commercial delivery a uniform certificate of course completion indicating the course name and successful completion;

(6) the course provider maintains adequate records as prescribed by the department to show attendance and progress or grades and enforces satisfactory standards relating to attendance, progress, and conduct;

(7) the course provider complies with all county, municipal, state, and federal laws, including assumed name registration and other applicable requirements;

(8) the course provider is financially sound and capable of fulfilling its commitments for training;

(9) the course provider is of good reputation and character;

(10) the course provider maintains and publishes as a part of its student enrollment contract the proper policy for the refund of the unused portion of tuition, fees, and other charges if a student fails to take the course or withdraws or is discontinued from the school at any time before completion;

(11) the course provider does not use erroneous or misleading advertising, either by actual statement, omission, or intimation, as determined by the department;

(12) the course provider does not use a name similar to the name of another existing school or tax-supported educational institution in this state, unless specifically approved in writing by the executive director;

(13) the course provider does not owe an administrative penalty for a violation of this chapter; and

(14) the course provider meets additional criteria required by the department.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 29, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.207. BOND REQUIREMENTS: DRIVER EDUCATION SCHOOL. (a) Before a driver education school may be issued a license, the school must file a corporate surety bond with the department in the amount of:

(1) $10,000 for the primary location of the school; and

(2) $5,000 for each branch location.

(b) A bond issued under Subsection (a) must be:

(1) issued in a form approved by the department;

(2) issued by a company authorized to do business in this state;

(3) payable to the department to be used only for payment of a refund due to a student or potential student;

(4) conditioned on the compliance of the school and its officers, agents, and employees with this chapter and rules adopted under this chapter; and

(5) issued for a period corresponding to the term of the license.

(c) Posting of a bond in the amount required under Subsection (a) satisfies the requirements for financial stability for driver education schools under this chapter.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 30, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.208. BOND NOT REQUIRED FOR DRIVING SAFETY SCHOOL. A driving safety school is not required to post a surety bond.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Sec. 1001.209. BOND REQUIREMENTS: COURSE PROVIDER. (a) Before a course provider may be issued a license, the course provider must provide a corporate surety bond in the amount of $25,000.

(b) A bond issued under Subsection (a) must be:

(1) issued by a company authorized to do business in this state;

(2) payable to the department to be used:

(A) for payment of a refund due a student of the course provider's approved course;

(B) to cover the payment of unpaid fees or penalties assessed by the executive director or the commission; or

(C) to recover any cost associated with providing course completion certificate numbers, including the cancellation of certificate numbers;

(3) conditioned on the compliance of the course provider and its officers, agents, and employees with this chapter and rules adopted under this chapter; and

(4) issued for a period corresponding to the term of the license.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 928 (H.B. 468), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2005.

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 31, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.210. ALTERNATE FORM OF SECURITY. Instead of the bond required by Section 1001.207 or 1001.209, a driver education school or course provider may provide another form of security that is:

(1) approved by the department; and

(2) in the amount required for a comparable bond under Section 1001.207 or 1001.209.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 32, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.211. ISSUANCE AND FORM OF LICENSE. (a) The executive director shall issue a license to an applicant for a license under this subchapter if:

(1) the application is submitted in accordance with this subchapter; and

(2) the applicant meets the requirements of this chapter.

(b) A license must be in a form determined by the department and must show in a clear and conspicuous manner:

(1) the date of issuance, effective date, and term of the license;

(2) the name and address of the driver training school or course provider;

(3) the authority for and conditions of approval; and

(4) any other fair and reasonable representation that is consistent with this chapter and that the department considers necessary.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 33, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.213. LICENSE NOT TRANSFERABLE; CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP. (a) A license under this subchapter may not be transferred and is the property of the state.

(b) If a change in ownership of a driver training school or course provider is proposed, a new owner shall apply for a new school or course provider license at least 30 days before the date of the change.

(c) The commission by rule may establish fees for a new driver education school or course provider license under Subsection (b) and for each branch location if:

(1) the new owner is substantially similar to the previous owner; and

(2) there is no significant change in the management or control of the driver education school or course provider.

(d) The department may inspect a school or a branch location after a change of ownership.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 34, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.214. DUPLICATE LICENSE. A duplicate license may be issued to a driver training school or course provider if:

(1) the original license is lost or destroyed; and

(2) an affidavit of that fact is filed with the department.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 35, eff. September 1, 2015.

SUBCHAPTER F. LICENSING OF INSTRUCTORS

Sec. 1001.251. LICENSE REQUIRED FOR INSTRUCTOR. (a) A person may not teach or provide driver education, either as an individual or in a driver education school, or conduct any phase of driver education, unless the person holds a driver education instructor license issued by the executive director.

(b) A person may not teach or provide driving safety training, either as an individual or in a driving safety school, or conduct any phase of driving safety education, unless the person holds a driving safety instructor license issued by the executive director. This subsection does not apply to an instructor of a driving safety course that does not provide a uniform certificate of course completion to its graduates.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 36, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.2511. NATIONAL CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD INFORMATION REVIEW FOR DRIVER EDUCATION INSTRUCTORS. (a) This section applies to a person who is an applicant for or holder of:

(1) a driver education instructor license; or

(2) a license issued under Section 1001.255.

(b) The department shall review the national criminal history record information of a person who holds a license described by Subsection (a).

(c) The executive director shall place a license described by Subsection (a) on inactive status for the license holder's failure to comply with a deadline for submitting information required under this section.

(d) The department may allow a person who is applying for a license described by Subsection (a) and who currently resides in another state to submit the person's fingerprints and other required information in a manner that does not impose an undue hardship on the person.

(e) The commission may adopt rules to administer this section, including rules establishing:

(1) deadlines for a person to submit fingerprints and photographs in compliance with this section;

(2) sanctions for a person's failure to comply with the requirements of this section, including suspension or revocation of or refusal to issue a license described by Subsection (a); and

(3) notification to a driver education school of relevant information obtained by the department under this section.

(f) The department is not civilly or criminally liable for an action taken in compliance with this section.

Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 820 (H.B. 2678), Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2011.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 37, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.2512. FEES FOR CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD INFORMATION REVIEW. The commission by rule shall require a person submitting to a national criminal history record information review under Section 1001.2511 or the driver education school employing the person, as determined by the department, to pay a fee for the review in an amount not to exceed the amount of any fee imposed on an application for certification under Subchapter B, Chapter 21, for a national criminal history record information review under Section 22.0837.

Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 820 (H.B. 2678), Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2011.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 38, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.2513. CONFIDENTIALITY OF INFORMATION. Information collected about a person to comply with Section 1001.2511, including the person's name, address, phone number, social security number, driver's license number, other identification number, and fingerprint records:

(1) may not be released except:

(A) to provide relevant information to driver education schools or otherwise to comply with Section 1001.2511;

(B) by court order; or

(2) is not subject to disclosure as provided by Chapter 552, Government Code; and

(3) shall be destroyed by the requestor or any subsequent holder of the information not later than the first anniversary of the date the information is received.

Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 820 (H.B. 2678), Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2011.

Sec. 1001.2514. LICENSE HOLDERS AND APPLICANTS CONVICTED OF CERTAIN OFFENSES. (a) A driver education school shall discharge or refuse to hire as an instructor an employee or applicant for employment if the department obtains information through a criminal history record information review that:

(1) the employee or applicant has been convicted of:

(A) a felony offense under Title 5, Penal Code;

(B) an offense on conviction of which a defendant is required to register as a sex offender under Chapter 62, Code of Criminal Procedure; or

(C) an offense under the laws of another state or federal law that is equivalent to an offense under Paragraph (A) or (B); and

(2) at the time the offense occurred, the victim of the offense described by Subdivision (1) was under 18 years of age or was enrolled in a public school.

(b) The executive director shall suspend or revoke a license described by Section 1001.2511(a) held by a person under this subchapter and shall refuse to issue or renew a license described by Section 1001.2511(a) to a person under this subchapter if the person has been convicted of an offense described by Subsection (a) of this section.

(1) more than 30 years have elapsed since the offense was committed; and

(2) the person convicted has satisfied all terms of the court order entered on conviction.

(d) A driver education school may discharge an employee who serves as an instructor if the school obtains information of the employee's conviction of a felony or of a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude that the employee did not disclose to the school or the department. An employee discharged under this subsection is considered to have been discharged for misconduct for purposes of Section 207.044, Labor Code.

Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 820 (H.B. 2678), Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2011.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 39, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.253. DRIVER EDUCATION INSTRUCTOR TRAINING. (a) The department shall establish standards for certification of personnel who conduct driver education programs in driver education schools.

(b) A driver education instructor license authorizing a person to teach or provide behind-the-wheel training may not be issued unless the person has successfully completed six semester hours of driver and traffic safety education or a program of study in driver education approved by the department from an approved driver education school.

(c) A person who holds a driver education instructor license authorizing behind-the-wheel training may not be approved to assist a classroom instructor in the classroom phase of driver education unless the person has successfully completed the three additional semester hours of training required for a classroom instructor or a program of study in driver education approved by the department.

(d) Except as provided by Subsection (g) or Section 1001.254, a driver education instructor license authorizing a person to teach or provide classroom training may not be issued unless the person:

(1) has completed nine semester hours of driver and traffic safety education or a program of study in driver education approved by the department from an approved driver education school; and

(2) holds a teaching certificate and any additional certification required to teach driver education.

(e) A driver education instructor who has completed the educational requirements prescribed by Subsection (d)(1) may not teach instructor training classes unless the instructor has successfully completed a supervising instructor development program consisting of at least six additional semester hours or a program of study in driver education approved by the department that includes administering driver education programs and supervising and administering traffic safety education.

(f) A driver education school may submit for department approval a curriculum for an instructor development program for driver education instructors. The program must:

(1) be taught by a person who has completed a supervising instructor development program under Subsection (e); and

(2) satisfy the requirements of this section for the particular program or type of training to be provided.

(g) A driver education instructor license authorizing a person to teach or provide classroom training may be issued to a person who satisfies the requirements of Subsection (d)(1) but does not satisfy the requirements of Subsection (d)(2), except that such a license may authorize the license holder to teach or provide classroom training only for a driver education school that is located in a county that has a population of at least 275,000 but not more than 285,000 and is operated by a private primary or secondary school or open-enrollment charter school. This section does not affect any law or school policy that requires a review of criminal history record information.

(h) The classroom portion of the instructor development program for driver education instructors may be conducted online.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 820 (H.B. 2678), Sec. 5, eff. September 1, 2011.

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 40, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.254. TEMPORARY LICENSE. (a) A temporary driver education instructor license may be issued authorizing a person to teach or provide classroom driver education training if the person:

(1) has completed the educational requirements prescribed by Section 1001.253(d)(1);

(2) holds a Texas teaching certificate with an effective date before February 1, 1986;

(3) meets all license requirements, other than successful completion of the examination required under rules adopted by the State Board for Educator Certification to revalidate the teaching certificate; and

(4) demonstrates, in a manner prescribed by the department, the intention to comply with the examination requirement at the first available opportunity.

(b) A license issued under this section is valid for six months and may not be renewed.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 41, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.255. REGULATION OF CERTAIN DRIVER EDUCATION INSTRUCTORS. (a) The department shall regulate as a driver education school a driver education instructor who:

(1) teaches driver education courses in a county having a population of 50,000 or less; and

(2) does not teach more than 200 students annually.

(b) An instructor described by Subsection (a) must submit to the department an application for an initial or renewal driver education school license, together with all required documentation and information.

(d) An instructor described by Subsection (a) is not exempt from a licensing requirement or fee.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 42, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.256. DUPLICATE LICENSE. A duplicate license may be issued to a driver education instructor or driving safety instructor if:

(1) the original license is lost or destroyed; and

(2) an affidavit of that fact is filed with the department.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 43, eff. September 1, 2015.

SUBCHAPTER G. LICENSE EXPIRATION AND RENEWAL

Sec. 1001.301. EXPIRATION OF SCHOOL OR COURSE PROVIDER LICENSE. The term of a driver education school, driving safety school, or course provider license may not exceed one year.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Sec. 1001.302. EXPIRATION OF INSTRUCTOR LICENSE. The term of a driver education instructor or driving safety instructor license may not exceed one year.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Sec. 1001.303. RENEWAL OF SCHOOL OR COURSE PROVIDER LICENSE. (a) Repealed by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 , Sec. 70(a)(8), eff. September 1, 2015.

(b) Repealed by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 , Sec. 70(a)(8), eff. September 1, 2015.

(d) The department shall renew or cancel the driver education school, driving safety school, or course provider license.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 44, eff. September 1, 2015.

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 70(a)(8), eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.304. RENEWAL OF INSTRUCTOR LICENSE. (a) An application to renew a driver education instructor or driving safety instructor license must include evidence of completion of continuing education and be postmarked at least 30 days before the expiration date of the license.

(b) The continuing education must be:

(1) in courses approved by the department; and

(2) for the number of hours established by the commission.

(c) An applicant who does not comply with Subsection (a) must pay a late renewal fee in the amount established by commission rule.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 45, eff. September 1, 2015.

SUBCHAPTER H. PRACTICE BY LICENSE HOLDERS

Sec. 1001.351. COURSE PROVIDER RESPONSIBILITIES. (a) Not later than the 15th working day after the course completion date, a course provider or a person at the course provider's facilities shall issue and deliver by United States mail or commercial delivery a uniform certificate of course completion to a person who successfully completes an approved driving safety course.

(b) A course provider shall electronically submit to the department in the manner established by the department data identified by the department relating to uniform certificates of course completion issued by the course provider.

(c) A course provider shall conduct driving safety instructor development courses for its approved driving safety courses.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 928 (H.B. 468), Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2005.

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 46, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.352. FEES FOR DRIVING SAFETY COURSE. A course provider shall charge each student:

(1) at least $25 for a driving safety course; and

(2) a fee of at least $3 for course materials and for supervising and administering the course.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Sec. 1001.353. DRIVER TRAINING COURSE AT PUBLIC OR PRIVATE SCHOOL. A driver training school may conduct a driver training course at a public or private school for students of the public or private school as provided by an agreement with the public or private school. The course is subject to any law applicable to a course conducted at the main business location of the driver training school.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Sec. 1001.354. LOCATIONS AUTHORIZED FOR DRIVING SAFETY COURSE. (a) A driving safety course may be taught at a driving safety school if the school is approved by the department.

(b) A driving safety school may teach an approved driving safety course by an alternative method that does not require students to be present in a classroom if the department approves the alternative method. The department may approve the alternative method if:

(1) the department determines that the approved driving safety course can be taught by the alternative method; and

(2) the alternative method includes testing and security measures that are at least as secure as the measures available in the usual classroom setting.

(c) On approval, the alternative method is considered to satisfy the requirements of this chapter for a driving safety course.

(d) A location at which a student receives supplies or equipment for a course under Subsection (b) is considered a classroom of the school providing the course.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 47, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.3541. ALTERNATIVE METHOD OF INSTRUCTION FOR DRIVER EDUCATION COURSE. (a) A driver education school may teach all or part of the classroom portion of an approved driver education course by an alternative method of instruction that does not require students to be present in a classroom if the department approves the alternative method.

(b) The department may approve the alternative method only if:

(1) the alternative method includes testing and security measures that the department determines are at least as secure as the measures available in the usual classroom setting; and

(2) the course, with the use of the alternative method, satisfies any other requirement applicable to a course in which the classroom portion is taught to students in the usual classroom setting.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 131 (S.B. 858), Sec. 1, eff. May 23, 2009.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 48, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.355. WITHHOLDING CERTAIN RECORDS. A driver training school may withhold a student's diploma or certificate of completion until the student fulfills the student's financial obligation to the school.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Sec. 1001.356. REQUIREMENT TO CARRY LICENSE. A driver education instructor or driving safety instructor shall carry the person's instructor license at all times while instructing a driver education course or driving safety course.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Sec. 1001.357. CONTRACT WITH UNLICENSED DRIVER TRAINING SCHOOL. A contract entered into with a person for a course of instruction by or on behalf of a person operating an unlicensed driver training school is unenforceable.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

SUBCHAPTER I. REFUND POLICIES

Sec. 1001.401. CANCELLATION AND SETTLEMENT POLICY. As a condition for obtaining a driver education school license or course provider license, the school or course provider must maintain a cancellation and settlement policy that provides a full refund of all money paid by a student if:

(1) the student cancels the enrollment contract before midnight of the third day, other than a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, after the date the enrollment contract is signed by the student, unless the student successfully completes the course or receives a failing grade on the course examination; or

(2) the enrollment of the student was procured as a result of a misrepresentation in:

(A) advertising or promotional materials of the school or course provider; or

(B) a representation made by an owner or employee of the school or course provider.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Sec. 1001.402. TERMINATION POLICY. (a) As a condition for obtaining a driver education school license, the school must maintain a policy for the refund of the unused portion of tuition, fees, and other charges if a student, after expiration of the cancellation period described by Section 1001.401, does not enter the course or withdraws or is discontinued from the course at any time before completion.

(b) The policy must provide that:

(1) refunds are based on the period of enrollment computed on the basis of course time expressed in clock hours;

(2) the effective date of the termination for refund purposes is the earliest of:

(A) the last day of attendance, if the student's enrollment is terminated by the school;

(B) the date the school receives written notice from the student; or

(3) if tuition is collected in advance of entrance and if a student does not enter the school, terminates enrollment, or withdraws, the school:

(A) may retain not more than $50 as an administrative expense; and

(B) shall refund that portion of the student's remaining classroom tuition and fees and behind-the-wheel tuition and fees that corresponds to services the student does not receive;

(4) the school shall refund items of extra expense to the student, including instructional supplies, books, laboratory fees, service charges, rentals, deposits, and all other charges not later than the 30th day after the effective date of enrollment termination if:

(A) the extra expenses are separately stated and shown in the information provided to the student before enrollment; and

(B) the student returns to the school any school property in the student's possession; and

(5) refunds shall be completed not later than the 30th day after the effective date of enrollment termination.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Sec. 1001.403. REFUND FOR DISCONTINUED COURSE. On the discontinuation of a course by a driver education school or a course provider that prevents a student from completing the course, all tuition and fees paid become refundable.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Sec. 1001.404. INTEREST ON REFUND. (a) If a refund is not timely made, the driver education school or course provider shall pay interest on the amount of the refund. Interest begins to accrue on the first day after the expiration of the refund period and ends on the day preceding the date the refund is made.

(b) The department shall establish annually the rate of interest for a refund at a rate sufficient to provide a deterrent to the retention of student money.

(c) The department may except a driver education school or course provider from the payment of interest if the school or course provider makes a good-faith effort to refund tuition, fees, and other charges but is unable to locate the student to whom the refund is owed. On request of the department, the school or course provider shall document the effort to locate a student.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 49, eff. September 1, 2015.

SUBCHAPTER J. PROHIBITED PRACTICES AND DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS

Sec. 1001.451. PROHIBITED PRACTICES. A person may not:

(1) use advertising that is false, misleading, or deceptive;

(2) fail to notify the department of the discontinuance of the operation of a driver training school before the 15th working day after the date of cessation of classes and make available accurate records as required by this chapter;

(3) issue, sell, trade, or transfer:

(A) a uniform certificate of course completion or driver education certificate to a person or driver training school not authorized to possess the certificate;

(B) a uniform certificate of course completion to a person who has not successfully completed an approved, six-hour driving safety course; or

(C) a driver education certificate to a person who has not successfully completed a department-approved driver education course;

(4) negotiate a promissory instrument received as payment of tuition or another charge before the student completes 75 percent of the course, except that before that time the instrument may be assigned to a purchaser who becomes subject to any defense available against the school named as payee; or

(5) conduct any part of an approved driver education course or driving safety course without having an instructor physically present in appropriate proximity to the student for the type of instruction being given.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 50, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.452. COURSE OF INSTRUCTION. A driver training school may not conduct a course of instruction in this state before the date the school receives a driver training school license from the department.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 50, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.453. DISTRIBUTION OF WRITTEN INFORMATION ON COURSE PROVIDER. (a) A person may not distribute within 500 feet of a court with jurisdiction over an offense to which Article 45.0511, Code of Criminal Procedure, applies written information that advertises a course provider.

(b) The department may revoke the license of a course provider if the course provider or the course provider's agent, employee, or representative violates this section.

(1) by a court; or

(2) to a court to advise the court of the availability of the course or to obtain approval of the course.

(d) Subchapter F, Chapter 51, Occupations Code, and Section 51.353, Occupations Code, do not apply to a violation of this section or a rule adopted under this section.

(e) Section 51.352, Occupations Code, and Sections 1001.455(a)(6) and 1001.554 of this code do not apply to a violation of this section.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 51, eff. September 1, 2015.

Sec. 1001.455. DENIAL, SUSPENSION, OR REVOCATION OF INSTRUCTOR LICENSE. (a) The executive director or the commission may deny an application for an instructor license or suspend or revoke the license of an instructor if the instructor:

(1) fails to meet a requirement for issuance of or holding a license under this chapter;

(2) permits or engages in misrepresentation, fraud, or deceit in applying for or obtaining a certificate, license, or permit;

(3) induces fraud or fraudulent practices on the part of an applicant for a driver's license or permit;

(4) permits or engages in any other fraudulent practice in an action between the applicant or license holder and the public;

(5) fails to comply with commission rules relating to driver instruction; or

(6) fails to comply with this chapter.

(b) Repealed by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 , Sec. 70(a)(10), eff. September 1, 2015.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 52, eff. September 1, 2015.

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 70(a)(10), eff. September 1, 2015.

SUBCHAPTER K. CLASS ACTION SUITS

SUBCHAPTER L. PENALTIES AND ENFORCEMENT PROVISIONS

Sec. 1001.554. GENERAL CRIMINAL PENALTY. (a) A person commits an offense if the person violates this chapter.

(b) An offense under this section is punishable by:

(1) a fine of not less than $100 or more than $20,000;

(2) confinement in the county jail for a term not to exceed six months; or

(3) both the fine and confinement.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Sec. 1001.555. UNAUTHORIZED TRANSFER OR POSSESSION OF CERTIFICATE; OFFENSE. (a) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly sells, trades, issues, or otherwise transfers, or possesses with intent to sell, trade, issue, or otherwise transfer, a uniform certificate of course completion, a course completion certificate number, or a driver education certificate to an individual, firm, or corporation not authorized to possess the certificate or number.

(b) The department may contract with the Department of Public Safety to provide undercover and investigative assistance in the enforcement of Subsection (a).

(c) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly possesses a uniform certificate of course completion, a course completion certificate number, or a driver education certificate and is not authorized to possess the certificate or number.

(d) An offense under this section is a felony punishable by imprisonment in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for a term not to exceed five years.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.012(a), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 928 (H.B. 468), Sec. 6, eff. September 1, 2005.

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 87 (S.B. 1969), Sec. 25.055, eff. September 1, 2009.

Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1044 (H.B. 1786), Sec. 53, eff. September 1, 2015.

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2015 Texas StatutesEDUCATION CODETITLE 5 - OTHER EDUCATIONCHAPTER 1001 - DRIVER AND TRAFFIC SAFETY EDUCATION

2015 Texas Statutes
EDUCATION CODE
TITLE 5 - OTHER EDUCATION
CHAPTER 1001 - DRIVER AND TRAFFIC SAFETY EDUCATION