Driver’s License for Non-Citizens in Texas

1. What are the requirements to obtain an instruction permit for driving in Texas?


In order to obtain an instruction permit for driving in Texas, applicants must be at least 15 years of age and submit proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency. They must also pass the written knowledge test, a vision test, and pay the applicable fees. Applicants must also have a parent or guardian sign the application if they are under 18.

2. Can non-U.S. citizens obtain a driver’s license in Texas?


Yes, non-U.S. citizens can obtain a driver’s license in Texas. An applicant must provide valid proof of identity and legally present in the United States, such as a valid foreign passport and/or visa. Ultimately, the decision to issue or deny a driver’s license is up to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

3. What documents are needed to apply for a provisional driver’s license in Texas?


In order to apply for a provisional driver’s license in Texas, you will need to provide documents that prove your identity, residency, and Social Security Number. Acceptable documents may include an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport or other government-issued ID, and Social Security card. You will also need to provide proof of completion of the state’s approved driver’s education course. Additionally, if you are under 18 years old, you will need to provide proof of school enrollment and signed parental consent forms.

4. Is a Social Security Number required to obtain a driver’s license in Texas?


No, a Social Security Number is not required to obtain a driver’s license in Texas.

5. What is the minimum age requirement for obtaining a driver’s license in Texas?


The minimum age requirement for obtaining a driver’s license in Texas is 16 years old.

6. Are there any restrictions on non-citizens obtaining commercial vehicle driver’s licenses in Texas?


Yes, non-citizens in Texas are subject to different rules and regulations when obtaining a commercial driver’s license. Non-citizens must provide proof of legal presence in the US, including a valid permanent resident card or employment authorization card. Non-citizens must also present an acceptable translation of their foreign driver’s license or other documents, if applicable. Additionally, non-citizens are not eligible for an out-of-state waiver of the skills test.

7. What are the restrictions for non-U.S. citizens driving with a foreign-issued driver’s license in Texas?


Non-U.S. citizens with a valid foreign-issued driver’s license in Texas are allowed to drive in the state for as long as their license is valid. However, they should carry proof of valid automobile liability insurance and identification when behind the wheel. Additionally, they may be requested to produce identity documents such as a passport or travel visa if stopped by law enforcement. Non-U.S. citizens are not allowed to use a foreign-issued driver’s license in Texas after their legal stay in the U.S. has expired or if they are no longer authorized to remain in the country.

8. What type of proof of identity is needed to get a driver’s license in Texas?


In order to obtain a driver’s license in Texas, applicants must provide proof of identity with a valid, unexpired primary document such as a passport, birth certificate, foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa, Certificate of Citizenship or Certificate of Naturalization, Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) or an unexpired employment authorization document. A Texas driver license applicant must also provide proof of Social Security number and two documents that provide proof of Texas residency.

9. How long do non-citizens need to be residents of Texas before being able to apply for a driver’s license?


Non-citizens must be residents of Texas for at least 90 days before being able to apply for a driver’s license.

10. Are there any additional requirements for non-citizens seeking to obtain or renew a driver’s license in Texas?


Yes. Non-citizens applying for a Texas driver’s license must provide proof of lawful presence in the United States and must have a valid immigration document such as an I-94, an I-797, or a Temporary Resident Card to establish lawful presence. The document must be unexpired. Non-citizens must also present proof of identity, proof of Social Security Number (SSN), proof of Texas residence, and proof of vehicle insurance.

11. Which type of tests are required to be taken by non-citizens to obtain a driver’s license in Texas?


In Texas, non-citizens are required to take the same tests as U.S. citizens when obtaining a driver’s license, including a written knowledge test, an on-the-road driving test, and a vision test. Additionally, non-citizens will need to present acceptable forms of identification, such as their passport or consular ID card.

12. Do non-U.S. citizens need to provide proof of residency for obtaining a driver’s license in Texas?


Yes, non-U.S. citizens must provide proof of residency in order to obtain a driver’s license in Texas. This can include some form of identification such as a passport, visa, or other documents that demonstrate legal presence in the United States. Additionally, they must also provide Social Security documentation or other documents that prove they are living in Texas.

13. Is there an additional fee for non-citizens applying for a driver’s license in Texas?


No, there is no additional fee for non-citizens applying for a driver’s license in Texas. All applicants must pay the $25 fee for a basic license.

14. Is it possible for non-U.S. citizens to convert their foreign driver’s license into an American one in Texas?


No, non-U.S. citizens are not allowed to convert their foreign driver’s license into an American one in Texas. Non-U.S. citizens must apply for a Texas driver’s license in order to legally drive in the state.

15. What do non-citizens need to bring with them to the DMV when applying for a driver’s license in Texas?


Non-citizens applying for a driver’s license in Texas must bring a valid unexpired foreign passport with an I-94 attached, or an unexpired foreign driver’s license. They must also bring I-551 Resident Alien (Green) cards, I-766 Employment Authorization cards, I-20s, and DS 2019 forms, if applicable. Additionally, they must bring proof of Texas residency, such as a utility bill or bank statement that includes their name and address. Lastly, they must also bring their Social Security card (if applicable) and two forms of identification that prove their date of birth and identity.

16. How much does it cost for a non-citizen to obtain a driver’s license in Texas?


In Texas, the cost for a non-citizen to obtain a driver’s license is $41. It is required to have proof of identity, residency, and legal presence in the United States.

17. Are there any special laws that apply to drivers holding foreign driver’s licenses while operating motor vehicles in Texas?


Yes. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, foreign visitors may drive in Texas as long as they possess a valid driver’s license issued by their home country and an International Driver’s Permit (IDP). An IDP is not required for visitors from Canada, France, Germany, South Korea, Taiwan, or a U.S. territory or possession. Foreign drivers must also abide by all Texas state traffic laws and regulations.

18. Can non-citizens obtain an international driving permit while residing in Texas?


Yes, your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) likely offers a service to apply for an international driving permit, or you can apply through the American Automobile Association (AAA).

19. Does Texas recognize foreign driver’s licenses as valid forms of identification for licensing purposes?


Yes, Texas does recognize foreign driver’s licenses as valid forms of identification for licensing purposes. In order to obtain a Texas driver’s license or ID card, applicants must provide acceptable documents to prove identity, Social Security number, U.S. citizenship or lawful presence in the U.S., and Texas residency. Acceptable documents include valid foreign passports and foreign driver’s licenses with a certified English translation.

20. Are there any special requirements for renewing a non-citizen’s driver’s license in Texas?


Non-citizens in Texas must provide proof of their lawful presence in the United States in order to be eligible for a Texas driver’s license renewal. Generally, this means presenting a valid visa or green card. They may also need to present other documents such as a passport, I-94 form, or employment authorization card. In addition, all applicants must meet the regular eligibility requirements for getting or renewing a driver’s license in Texas. This includes passing a vision test, paying any applicable fees, and bringing two documents proving identity and residency in Texas.