Recently, in order to obtain a valid Texas Driver’s license, one had to complete a driver’s education course, hold a valid driving permit for six months, and pass a driving test. Without taking a driver’s education course or earning a driver’s permit, a person had to wait until they were 18 years of age. At this time, the person would simply take the driving test and if passed, they would receive their driver’s license immediately. Although the same process still remains, drivers with no previous driver’s education or permit must be 25 years of age to take their driving test that would grant them their license. Although many teens who have been waiting for their 18th birthday to get their license are upset, the new law only further advances the safety on city streets.
The information obtained in the driver’s education class is vital information that cannot be acquired anywhere but the course. Someone who cannot find the time to take the class does not have enough interest in learning to drive. The class not only includes information on how to properly maneuver a vehicle, but it also includes information on what to do in emergency situations, driving under the influence statistics, and hours of driving practice spent with a certified instructor. No matter one’s age, this is information that everyone should be thoroughly familiar with before getting behind the wheel.
The maturity level of any young adult is substantially different between the age of 18 to 25. While 18 year olds frequently forget they are even a legal adult, many 25 year olds are either deeply engaged in college studies, working to provide for themselves or both. Not to mention, many 18 year old are still in high school, and everyone is aware of how dangerous the school parking lot is alone. Maturity while driving is essential to staying safe on the road. This simple seven year age difference is a substantial amount when considering the level of maturity.
With the driver’s education resources available to anyone and everyone, there should be no excuse not to jump on the opportunity. The knowledge and practice gained from the class helps keep roads safer. Learning statistics about driving under the influence alerts new drivers of the importance of driving sober, while learning how to react in emergency situation prepares the driver for anything that might happen. This information is not presented to and understood by a driver who plans on just waiting a couple of years to get their license the easy way. Raising the age from 18 to 25 will encourage more students to enroll in this informative class.
The new law is a smart plan because it allows time for the driver to mature and gain some knowledge about driving in general. Since the class is available to everyone, potential drivers should use it to their advantage. The new rule will help keep more careful drivers on the road; after all, it’s not just one person’s safety at hand, it’s everyone’s.
