1. What is the Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License status in Texas?

In Texas, the state is in compliance with the Real ID Act and has begun issuing Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses. Additionally, Texas offers REAL ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses that are accepted for domestic air travel.

2. Is Texas compliant with the Real ID Act?

Yes, Texas is compliant with the Real ID Act. As of October 10, 2020, all Texas driver’s licenses and identification cards are Real ID-compliant.

3. Does Texas offer a Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License program?

Yes, Texas does offer a Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License program. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety website, a Real ID is a form of identification that complies with the federal REAL ID Act of 2005. It is a driver license or identification card accepted as secondary identification for any purpose for which the presentation of identification is required by federal law. An Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) is an optional driver license that serves as proof of identity and U.S. citizenship, and can be used to enter the United States from Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean nations without a passport or other travel documents.

4. Is a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License required to obtain a driver’s license in Texas?

Yes, in order to obtain a driver’s license in Texas, you must have either a Real ID or an Enhanced Driver’s License.

5. What documentation is required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Texas?

To obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Texas, the following documents and information are required:

1. Proof of Identification: one original document such as a valid U.S. passport, valid foreign passport with valid U.S. Visa and I-94, or a birth certificate.

2. Proof of Social Security Number: social security card, W-2 form, SSA 1099 form, or a non-SSA 1099 form.

3. Two proofs of residency for each address listed: utility bill, bank statement, paycheck stub, rental agreement, mortgage statement, or voter registration card.

4. Proof of Citizenship or Legal Permanent Resident status: naturalization certificate, permanent resident card, record of arrival/departure (I-94), or valid foreign passport with valid U.S. Visa and I-94.

5. Payment: cash, check, money order, credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card) or debit card (must include Visa or MasterCard logo).

6. What are the fees associated with obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Texas?

In Texas, the fee for obtaining a Real ID or an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) is $16, plus the normal driver license fee. The total cost for an EDL is typically $32, and for a Real ID it is typically $50.

7. How long is a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License valid for in Texas?

A Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Texas is valid for six years from the date of issuance.

8. Are there any special restrictions for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Texas?

Yes. Texas residents who wish to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License must provide certain documents to prove identity, Social Security Number, U.S. citizenship or lawful presence in the U.S., and Texas residency. These documents can include a birth certificate, Social Security card, U.S. passport or passport card, U.S. military ID, permanent resident card, and more. For a full list of acceptable documents, Texas residents should check the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles website.

9. Does Texas accept Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses from other states?

No, Texas does not accept Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s Licenses from other states.

10. Can a person with a temporary visa obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Texas?

No. In order to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Texas, a person must be able to validate their legal presence in the United States. Temporary visas are not considered valid legal presence documents.

11. Can a person use their Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License as identification for domestic air travel in Texas?

Yes, a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License can be used as identification for domestic air travel in Texas.

12. Are there any special requirements for renewing a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Texas?

Yes. To renew a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Texas, you must present proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and two documents proving Texas residency. You must also pass a vision test, pay the required fee, and have your photo taken.

13. How can I apply for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Texas?

You can apply for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) in Texas by visiting your local driver license office. You will need to bring proof of identity, Social Security number, proof of residency and payment for the required fees. For more information, visit the Texas Department of Public Safety website.

14. Does Texas have any additional requirements for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License?

Yes. In addition to the standard requirements for obtaining a Texas Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License, applicants must provide proof of Texas residency, such as a utility bill, rental agreement, or other proof of address. Additionally, applicants must provide original or certified copies of all documents that establish both identity and Texas residency. Examples of these documents include a birth certificate, social security card, and a valid U.S. passport or passport card.

15. Can I use my Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License for international travel from Texas?

Yes, you may use your Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License for international travel from Texas.

16. Is there an age limit for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Texas?

Yes. To obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Texas, you must be at least 18 years of age or older.

17. Is a vision test required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Texas?

No, a vision test is not required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Texas.

18. Is there a waiting period to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Texas?

Yes, there is a waiting period to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Texas. The waiting period varies depending on the type of license or ID being obtained. For example, the waiting period for a driver license is 3 to 5 business days, while the waiting period for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License is 7 to 10 business days.

19. What forms of payment are accepted when applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Texas?

When applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Texas, accepted forms of payment include cash, checks, money orders, debit cards, and credit cards.

20. Are there any special considerations when applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Texas for military personnel and veterans?

Yes. Military personnel and veterans may be eligible for special consideration or may be exempt from certain requirements when applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Texas. For example, military personnel may not have to submit documentation of Social Security Number or proof of U.S. citizenship/lawful presence, if they can present a current military ID card or orders indicating they are assigned to a Texas base. Additionally, veterans may be able to substitute certain documentation, such as a DD214, for proof of address requirements.