Your teen brought home their learner’s permit, and you’re so proud, but maybe a little nervous about that family trip you’re planning out of state. The big question: Can they legally drive once you cross state lines?
It depends. Texas has clear rules under its Graduated Driver License (GDL) program, but not every state honors a Texas learner’s permit. Some do. Some don’t. Others have their own requirements that may catch you off guard if you’re not prepared.
So before your teen takes the wheel in Louisiana or you head off to visit relatives in Georgia, it’s worth checking the rules to make sure you’re not accidentally breaking the law. You could be held liable in the event of a car accident, even if you didn’t realize your teen wasn’t legally allowed to drive in that state.
What Texas Law Says About Learner’s Permits
Teens in Texas can apply for a learner’s permit (officially called a learner license) as early as age 15, as long as they’re enrolled in a state-approved driver’s ed course. The permit comes with a few important rules:
- An adult age 21 or older must ride in the front seat and have a valid license.
- No phone use while driving, even with hands-free devices (unless there’s an emergency).
- Teens must hold the permit for at least six months before moving on to a provisional license.
- The permit expires automatically on the teen’s 18th birthday.
The goal is to give new drivers a chance to build experience under guidance.
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Can You Drive Out of State With a Texas Learner’s Permit?
The short answer is: sometimes. Many states recognize out-of-state learners’ permits, including those issued in Texas, but not all of them.
States like Pennsylvania, Hawaii, South Carolina, and Vermont flat-out do not allow non-resident learners to drive on their roads, regardless of whether those teens follow their home state’s permit requirements.
Other states may allow it, but apply different standards. You’ll need to follow Texas restrictions and also any rules specific to the state you’re visiting. That includes who can supervise, what hours are permitted for driving, and whether additional documentation is required.
Just because a Texas permit is valid here in Houston doesn’t mean it automatically applies in another state. And unfortunately, claiming you didn’t know won’t stop a citation or legal consequence if pulled over.
Supervision Rules Differ From State To State
Here’s something a lot of people miss: the age of the adult in the passenger seat matters, and it changes from state to state.
In Texas, a licensed adult who’s at least 21 can ride along with your teen. No problem. But cross into California, and the rules shift. There, the supervising driver has to be at least 25. And they’re expected to stay alert and ready to take control if needed.
So if your teen is driving from Houston to California to visit family, and you’re just 23, they won’t legally be allowed to drive once you cross into California.
Before you hand over the keys, take a few minutes to check the rules for each state on your route. Most DMV websites spell it out clearly, and a quick search can save you a headache.
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Does Insurance Cover Your Teen Out of State?
Did you know your auto insurance policy may not automatically extend to out-of-state travel for learner drivers? While many policies do provide national coverage, that coverage depends on the insurer and your specific policy.
Before allowing your teen to drive across state lines, call your insurance provider to find out:
- Is out-of-state driving under a learner’s permit covered?
- Are there any restrictions based on distance or supervision?
- Will your policy limits apply fully in other states?
Ignorance of your insurance policy requirements or the law will not be a valid defense if your teen runs into trouble on the road.
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What if Your Teen Gets Into an Accident in Another State?
If your teen is involved in an accident while driving with a Texas learner’s permit in another state, authorities will first determine whether they were legally permitted to drive there. If not, liability issues may arise—even if they weren’t at fault.
In such cases, contact local law enforcement immediately, as some states require formal reports involving learner drivers. Notify your insurance provider, document the scene with photos, gather witness information, and retain all official paperwork.
If legal or procedural questions arise, consult an attorney familiar with that state’s traffic laws and insurance regulations.
A Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
While a Texas learner’s permit gives your teen the green light to practice driving at home, it doesn’t guarantee that same privilege in other states. Rules vary—some states honor Texas permits, others don’t, and many have unique supervision or age requirements that could catch you off guard.
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About the Author Brian White
Brian White earned his J.D. from South Texas College of Law in Houston and is licensed to practice in Texas. He is a Board-Certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyer.
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