Unit 31: Ready for the Road

Point-based Penalties (The Driver Responsibility Program) (DRP)

For every moving violation a driver commits, a certain number of points will be added to the driver's record by the DPS: Two points will be assessed for a moving violation committed in Texas or another state Three points will be assessed for a moving violation committed in Texas or another state that resulted in a crash

Essential Needs License

For some people, the loss of a license will make it impossible for them to conduct their normal business or complete some other essential task. If the license of an individual is suspended for a reason other than physical or mental disability or impairment and he or she can demonstrate to the court an essential need to drive, he or she can apply for an Essential Needs License at the district or county court.If this request is approved, the driver will be restricted to driving for essential purposes only and will be required to carry a certified copy of the court order when he or she drives. This document must be shown whenever a peace officer requests to examine it.

Commercial Drivers License (CDL) Endorsements

H: The driver may transport hazardous materials N: The driver may transport a vehicle towing a tank P: The driver may operate a vehicle carrying passengers S: The driver may operate a school bus T: The driver may transport two or three trailers over a specified weight X: The driver may operate vehicles requiring both H and N endorsements

What happens If a driver commits a violation while driving without a license

If a driver commits a violation while driving without a license, either because he or she has not obtained a license, is driving with an instruction permit, or has had his or her license suspended or revoked for a previous violation, the department will suspend or revoke his or her driving privilege.

Job opportunities created by the HTS

Vehicle manufacturers and professional mechanics and technicians Vehicle engineers, including systems engineers, communications engineers, and computer programmers Professional drivers, including commercial truck drivers, bus drivers, taxi drivers, and delivery workers Road construction and maintenance workers Public workers and law enforcement agents with the Department of Public Safety, the Court system, and local police and sheriff departments Workers dealing with the environmental consequences of driving, including hazardous waste disposal workers and chemists improving fuel and vehicle fluid quality

what happens When a driver has accumulated six points

When a driver has accumulated six points, a surcharge of $100 will be assessed. For every additional point over six that a driver accumulates, the surcharge will be increased by $25. A driver's record will be reviewed annually. If the driver has at least six points at that time, he or she will be required to pay the surcharge. The number of points on a driver's record will increase every time he or she is convicted of a traffic offense. However, convictions are generally removed from a driver's record after three years.In general, the driver will be required to pay the surcharge annually for the three years that the offense remains on his or her record. However, drivers may also choose to pay the entire three-year amount in advance.

Conviction-based Penalties (The Driver Responsibility Program) (DRP)

When a driver is convicted of certain offenses, he or she will have to pay an annual surcharge of a pre-set amount for at least three years. However, no points will be assessed for these crimes. These surcharges are assigned as follows: DWI (first offense): $1,000 DWI (second or subsequent offense): $1,500 DWI with a BAC of 0.16% or more: $2,000 Driving without insurance: $250 Driving with an invalid license: $250 Driving with no license: $100

Class B license

permits a person to drive a vehicle of over 26,000 lbs while towing a vehicle of less than 10,000 lbs, a bus with a seating capacity of 24 or more occupants, including the driver, and any vehicle permitted under a Class C license.

Class A license

permits a person to operate a vehicle of over 26,000 lbs while towing a vehicle of over 10,000 lbs, as well as to drive any vehicle permitted under Class B and Class C licenses.

How fuel caps are supposed to be like

There must be a cap on your fuel tank. It will be tested using pressurized testing equipment.

Different types of Commercial Drivers License (CDL)

A Class A CDL permits a person to drive any combination of vehicles weighing over 26,000 lbs, with the towed vehicle or vehicles weighing over 10,000 lbs. A Class B CDL permits a person to drive any single vehicle over 26,000 lbs and to tow a vehicle of no more than 10,000 lbs, and to operate a vehicle designed to transport at least 24 occupants, including the driver. A Class C CDL permits a person to drive any vehicle or combination of vehicles which do not require a Class A or Class B CDL that is designed to transport between 16 and 23 occupants or that is used to transport hazardous materials requiring placards as specified in 49 C.F.R., Part 172, Subpart F.

Health and Safety Code Violations

A failure to complete a required tobacco awareness class A drug offense An offense under the Chapter 481 of the Health and Safety Code (The Texas Controlled Substances Act)

Drivers do not need to obtain a CDL to operate any of the following vehicles:

A farm vehicles that is controlled and operated by the farmer, used within 150 miles of the person's farm, not used by a common or contract motor carrier, and used to transport agricultural products, farm machinery, or farm supplies A fire-fighting or emergency vehicle whether operated by an official municipal employee or a volunteer firefighter A recreational vehicle (RV) used for personal reasons A military vehicle or commercial vehicle used for military purposes by military personnel A vehicle owned, leased, or controlled by an air carrier that is driven or operated by an employee of the air carrier on the premises of an airport or on non-public service roads A vehicle used exclusively to transport seed cotton modules or cotton burrs

The DPS may refuse to issue or renew the drivers license of a person ineligible to receive a license in Texas because of:

A previous suspension, revocation, cancellation, or disqualification in Texas, another state, or a Canadian province A physical or mental incapacity that prevents the safe operation of a motor vehicle A conviction for acquiring fuel without payment (stealing gas) A conviction for certain criminal mischief, such as graffiti A conviction for purchasing alcohol for a minor or furnishing alcohol to a minor In addition, the DPS may refuse to renew the license of a driver who fails to appear in court for traffic violations or other offenses within the jurisdiction of a justice or a municipal court.

Some optional equipment that can be installed in your car is considered unsafe and is prohibited by the state of Texas:

A red light or flashing red lights that show from the front of the vehicle, unless it is an emergency vehicle A bell, siren, or exhaust whistle, unless the vehicle is an emergency vehicle A radar interference device designed to disrupt a radar or laser reading of the vehicle's speed Anything that extends more than three inches beyond the left side or six inches beyond the right side of the body, running boards, or fenders of a vehicle A muffler cutout

License Restrictions

A: The driver must wear corrective lenses B: The driver must be accompanied by a licensed operator over 21 who must remain in the front seat C: The driver must drive only in the daytime D: The driver must not exceed a speed of 45 mph E: The driver must not drive on expressway P: A specific restriction will be stated on the license I: The motorcycle driver is restricted to vehicles with no more than 250cc piston displacement J: The motorcycle driver must ride in sight of a licensed operator at least 21 years old K: The motorcycle driver is restricted to operating a moped N: The driver must operate a vehicle equipped with an Ignition Interlock Device S: The driver must employ an outside mirror or hearing aid T: The driver must use a vehicle with an automatic transmission U: The driver must use the specified prosthetic device W: The driver must use a vehicle with power steering Z: The driver must use the specified vehicle device

what happens About six weeks before your license is due to expire

About six weeks before your license is due to expire, you will be mailed a renewal notice card (at the last address you gave to the DPS). You must renew your license whether or not you receive this notice. In general, you will have to renew your license in person at a drivers license office. However, some licensees will be invited by the DPS to renew through an alternate means. When renewing, you will have to answer questions about your medical history, and your case may be referred to the Texas Medical Advisory Board if circumstances warrant. You may check online or by phone to find out if you are eligible to renew by alternate means, such as online, through the mail, or by phone at 1-866-DL-RENEW.

The license of individuals under 21 years old may be automatically suspended for any of the following offenses:

Alcoholic Beverage Code Violations; Health and Safety Code Violations; Family Code Violations

How license plates are supposed to be like

All cars must have one valid license plate at the front of the car and one in the rear.

Windows (Required equipment)

All glass in your car must be safety glass. Any time you replace a piece of glass, you must replace it with safety glass. Sunscreening devices and window tinting must comply with the applicable state regulations. The windshield wipers must function properly to improve visibility in inclement weather.

How tires are supposed to be like

All tires must be in proper and safe condition and have a tread depth of at least 2/32nds of an inch.

Alternatives to Drivers License

Drivers licenses are typically accepted as the standard form of identification around the country, and are often required to fly on planes, purchase alcohol, etc. Individuals who do not wish to drive may obtain an official state identification card (ID) at the drivers license office for a $15 fee. The ID will expire after six years. Once an individual turns 60, he or she will have to pay a $5 fee the next time that his or her ID needs to be renewed, and will not have to renew the ID again.

In addition to licensed Texas residents, the following drivers are legally allowed to operate a motor vehicle on Texas roads:

Any nonresident of at least 16 years of age who is in possession of a valid (Class C or M) drivers license issued by his or her home state. Nonresidents over 18 years old may operate a vehicle in Texas that they are licensed to drive in their home state. Properly-licensed drivers who have moved to Texas within the last 90 days. After 90 days, a new resident must obtain a Texas drivers license. Any person temporarily driving or operating a road machine, farm tractor, or instrument of husbandry on a highway, unless the vehicle is a Commercial Motor Vehicle. The driver of an official motor vehicle in the service of the U.S. or state military service, unless the vehicle is a Commercial Motor Vehicle Any nonresident on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces with a valid license from his or her home state as well as his or her licensed spouse and children. Anyone on active duty who was issued a valid license by the U.S. Armed Forces while in a foreign country may operate a motor vehicle in Texas for up to 90 days after returning to the United States. The Texas drivers license of a resident who enters or is in the U.S. Armed Forces will remain valid as long as he or she continues to serve and remains outside of Texas, and for up to 90 days after he or she leaves the Armed Forces or returns to Texas, unless the license is suspended, revoked, or cancelled sooner.

If you're not able to provide evidence of financial responsibility, you will be unable to continue driving. You must present evidence of financial responsibility when:

Applying for a drivers license Registering a motor vehicle Obtaining a motor vehicle inspection certificate Renewing a license plate Requested by a law enforcement officer or by another person involved in a collision with which you are involved

Class M license

At 16, drivers may obtain a Class M license to operate a motorcycle if they hold a valid license and have completed the 32-hour classroom portion of an approved drivers ed course and a 16-hour DPS-approved motorcycle operator training course. At 15, drivers may obtain a Class M license to operate a moped or motor-driven cycle with a motor of 250cc piston displacement or less if they have completed the 32-hour classroom and 16-hour operator training requirements. For drivers under 18, the fee for obtaining a Class M license is the same as that for Class A, B, and C licenses, $15. For a fee of $32, a Class M license will be issued to a drivers 18 and over for a period of six years.If you plan to travel both by car and by motorcycle, you may add a Class M endorsement to your valid Class A, B, or C license for a fee of $15. When you next renew your license, it will cost you an additional $8 to renew the endorsement.

To receive a commercial drivers license valid for interstate commerce, you must: A. Be at least 21 years old B. Obtain a Class A CDL C. Pay an additional $50 fee

Be at least 21 years old

Upon receiving an order from the court, the DPS can suspend, revoke, or cancel a drivers license for:

Delinquent child support A failure to repay any overpayment of food stamps or financial assistance Mental incapacitation Chemical dependence A failure to annually renew one's registration as a sex offender In addition, for drunk driving offenses, a license may be revoked until the driver installs a deep lung breath analysis mechanism, orInterlock Devicein his or her ignition system. This device ensures that a driver cannot drive with an illegal BAC by requiring him or her to take a chemical breath test before the car will activate.

Family Code Violations

Delinquent conduct Truancy

The Driver Responsibility Program (DRP)

Drivers who consistently demonstrate unsafe driving behaviors or who are guilty of certain significant offenses may face additional surcharges under Chapter 708 of the Texas Transportation Code, The Driver Responsibility Program (DRP). These surcharges are based on convictions that are recorded on a person's driving record.The surcharges that a driver faces can be based on the number of moving violation points the driver has accumulated, or on specific amounts associated with particular offenses.

People that will not be allowed to renew their license by alternate means

Drivers whose license has been suspended, cancelled, revoked, or denied Commercial, occupational, or provisional license holders Licensees with restrictions concerning driving ability or medical condition Licensees who do not have a social security number or photo on file Individuals subject to sex offender registration requirements Individuals over 79 years old

The DPS is authorized to suspend or revoke the license or driving privilege from any driver, after offering an opportunity for a proper hearing, for:

Driving with a suspended license Causing a serious collision while driving a motor vehicle Becoming incompetent to drive Habitually driving recklessly or negligently Fleeing or attempting to flee an officer Repeated traffic law violations (4 or more convictions within a 12-month period, or 7 or more convictions with a 24-month period) Failing to complete a required drug education program Failing to provide medical information when requested Failing to take or pass an exam when requested Failing to stop for a school bus (after a second offense) Failing to obey the terms of a probation order set during a previous hearing In addition, the DPS may suspend or revoke your Texas license for any offense committed in another state that would be grounds for suspension or revocation in Texas.

what happens When your vehicle passes its inspection

During your vehicle inspection, its equipment will be tested to make sure that they are working properly and meet all applicable legal standards. When your vehicle passes its inspection, you will be issued an official certificate that must be placed on your windshield (or on the license plate of a moped or motorcycle). An inspection certificate remains valid for one year from the month of inspection.You must be able to furnish proof of financial responsibility at the time of your inspection. If you do not, you will not be issued an inspection certificate.

Driving While License Invalid

If you drive on a suspended license, you are guilty of Driving While License Invalid. Your suspension will be extended for the same amount of time as the original suspension and you will be fined up to $500. In addition, you'll be fined up to $2,000 and face up to 180 days in jail for driving without a valid license if: You have a previous conviction for the same offense on your record You are also found to be driving without insurance Your suspension was imposed for a drunk driving offense If, while driving without a valid license or insurance, you're responsible for a crash in which someone is injured or killed, you will be fined up to $4,000 and face up to a year in jail.

what happens If you fail to show proof of financial responsibility when requested by a law enforcement officer

If you fail to show proof of financial responsibility when requested by a law enforcement officer, you may receive a citation. If you can show proof that a liability insurance policy was in effect when the citation was issued, the court will dismiss the charge.The first time you're convicted of failing to provide proof of financial responsibility, you'll be fined between $175 and $350. For a second offense, penalties will include a fine between $350 and $1,000, suspension of your license and vehicle registration, and impoundment of the vehicle driven at the time of the offense for 180 days. The car will not be released from impoundment until evidence of financial responsibility is provided.

Commercial Drivers License (CDL)

If you intend to drive a vehicle for business or employment, you must obtain a Commercial Drivers License (CDL) rather than a classified license. A driver must be 18 years old to obtain a CDL valid for driving within Texas, and 21 to obtain a CDL valid for interstate commerce.You can obtain a Class A, B, or C commercial license. The vehicles permitted under each of these classes are similar to those permitted under the corresponding classified license. CDLs must be renewed every five years for a fee of $60.

What to do In the event that your license or ID is lost or destroyed

In the event that your license or ID is lost or destroyed, or if your name, address, or other information has changed, you can apply for a duplicate license or ID at your local drivers license office for a fee of $10. Name and address changes should be reported within 30 days. You may request a change of address duplicate license at the Texas DPS website.If your license is expiring in less than 12 months, or your provisional license is expiring in less than 30 days, you should renew your license rather than request a duplicate in these circumstances.

The DPS can cancel your drivers license or ID for:

Receiving a license suspension or revocation in another state Having the authorization provided by your parent or guardian withdrawn (if you are under 18) Failing to meet the qualifications for a drivers license or ID required by the state of Texas Failing to have provided the required information truthfully on your license application Failing to have completed your required drivers education course The department may also cancel your license if you voluntarily surrender it for medical or insurance purposes.

How front seat belts are supposed to be like

Seat belts are required in all vehicles in which they were part of the original equipment.

Agencies responsible for the HTS

The Department of Transportation is the main agency tasked with providing a safe, efficient highway system. The Department of Public Safety is responsible for issuing, renewing, and suspending drivers licenses. The Department of Motor Vehicles is in charge of vehicle registration. The Department of Licensing and Regulation establishes guidelines for drivers education Texas Legislature passes the laws that govern the HTS. The Criminal Justice Division oversees law enforcement and crime prevention strategies. The Judicial System enforces traffic laws and assigns punishments to violators. The Alcoholic Beverage Commission regulates alcohol consumption and zero tolerance policies. The Mental Health and Substance Abuse Division provides support for people with alcohol and drug abuse problems.

How brakes are supposed to be like

The foot brake must be able to stop the vehicle within 25 ft when the vehicle is traveling at 20 mph. The parking brake must be adequate for stopping and holding the vehicle.

How horns are supposed to be like

The horn must be audible from a distance of at least 200 ft.

Class C classified drivers license

The license that most Texas drivers obtain is a standard Class C classified drivers license. Applicants for a Class C license must be 18, or 16 if they have completed Phase One of the GDL program.The Class C license allows a person to drive a single-unit vehicle that weighs no more than 26,000 lbs, and to tow a trailer of no more than 10,000 lbs. A driver with a Class C license may also operate a farm trailer of no more than 20,000 lbs. However, this license does not allow the operator to drive a motorcycle or moped.

Alcoholic Beverage Code Violations

The possession of alcohol The consumption of alcohol The purchase of alcohol or an attempt to purchase alcohol Driving under the influence of alcohol The failure to complete an alcohol awareness course The misrepresentation of his or her own age

How to remove a restriction from your license

To remove a restriction from your license, you must contact your local drivers license office or a drivers license trooper. Drivers license troopers are the agents of the Department of Public Safety (DPS) responsible for issuing licenses and maintaining licensing records.

DRP Amnesty and Incentive Programs (The Driver Responsibility Program) (DRP)

Under the Driver Responsibility Program, a driver may be able to have the surcharge that he or she is required to pay reduced by meeting certain requirements: Individuals who can provide proof of insurance following the assessment of a surcharge for driving without insurance can have the surcharge reduced to 75% of the original amount. Individuals who have been assessed a surcharge for driving without a valid license can have the surcharge reduced to 75% of the original amount by obtaining the kind of license they should have been driving with. Individuals who receive a surcharge for intoxication, driving with an invalid license, or an accumulation of at least six points can have the surcharge reduced to 90% of the original amount after one year and to 80% of the original amount after two years. They must have a history of compliance and must commit no additional offenses following the original conviction or convictions.

What happens when you visit the drivers license office to get license

When you visit the drivers license office, you'll be offered a Donate Life Texas pamphlet that explains organ donation. You'll be able to indicate whether you intend to become an eye, tissue, or organ donor. Male drivers over 18 will be asked to register for selective service when they visit the drivers license office, if they have not already done so. Visitors to the drivers license office will be invited to complete a voter registration form.

Which of the following is not a requirement to begin Phase 2 of the GDL program? A. You must be 16 years old B. You must complete 32 hours of classroom instruction C. You must hold your instruction permit for a year

You must hold your instruction permit for a year

Insurance Requirements

You must not drive if you have not met the financial responsibility requirements specified by the Safety Responsibility Act, either by obtaining a liability insurance policy, or by some other means. Remember, every driver is required to have the following minimum amounts of coverage: $30,000 for the injury or death of a single person $60,000 for a single collision that causes the injury or death of more than one person $25,000 for property damages These amounts frequently prove insufficient to cover the damages caused in a collision. You will be personally responsible for paying any claims over the amounts provided by your policy.

Special Indications

You will also be allowed to specify certain preferences and medical conditions on your drivers license. All licenses provide a space for the licensee to indicate any drug allergies the license holder may have. On the reverse of the drivers license, the DPS is required to print the statements Directive to physician has been filed at telephone # and Emergency contact telephone #. You will be able to fill in this information and there will be space to indicate for what purpose the number applies. There will also be space on the license for you to voluntarily list health conditions that may impede communications with a peace officer.

How Exhaust and emission system are supposed to be like

Your car must have a muffler and exhaust system to help reduce noise and air pollution

How mirrors are supposed to be like

Your car must have one inside rearview mirror as well as a mirror on the outside of the car on the driver's side. The mirrors must be positioned to reflect a view of the road for at least 200 ft to the rear of the vehicle.

How lights are supposed to be like

Your car must have: Two headlights, one on each side of the front of the car, and a beam indicator that lights up when the high beams are illuminated Two electric turn signals in the front of the car and two in back that can be activated by the driver Two red taillights, one on each side of the back of the car Two red brake lights, one on each side of the back of the car, that activate when the brake pedal is depressed Two red reflectors, one on each side of the back of the car, that are visible from 600 ft and placed at a height of 15" to 60" from the ground (these may be used in combination with taillights) Two white or amber parking lights in the front of the car and two red parking lights in back that can be activated by the driver A white license plate light that illuminates the rear license plate whenever any other lights are activated While it's also a good idea to have two whitebackup lights, one on each side of the back of the car, that activate when backing up, this equipment is classified as optional by the state of Texas.

If you commit license fraud by using an altered or unlawful license: A. The false license will be confiscated B. You will have to pay a fine of $500 to $1,000 C. Your driving privilege will be suspended automatically

Your driving privilege will be suspended automatically

One problem associated with getting a license suspension is: A. A permanent restriction will be placed on your license B. You will be unable to purchase alcohol even if you're over 21 C. Your driving skills may deteriorate

Your driving skills may deteriorate

If you have a Texas drivers license and you commit an offense in another state that would be ground for a suspension in Texas: A. You may be convicted of driving without a valid license B. Your license may be suspended by the state agency where the offense was committed C. Your license may be suspended by the Texas DPS

Your license may be suspended by the Texas DPS

You can be sentenced to up to 180 days in jail for driving with a license that was suspended for _________ . A. a moving violation that resulted in a crash B. hit-and-run C. drunk driving

drunk driving

On the back of your license, you can list __________ . A. all cars that are registered in your name B. health conditions that may impede your ability to communicate C. organs and tissues that you would be willing to donate

health conditions that may impede your ability to communicate