How to Get a Passenger Endorsement on Your Texas Driver's License

What a Passenger Endorsement Is and Why You Need One

A passenger endorsement is a restriction added to your Texas driver's license that limits you to driving with passengers only — you cannot drive alone. Texas issues this endorsement primarily to new drivers under 18 as a graduated licensing step. Once you have a passenger endorsement, you can drive with passengers present, but driving solo violates the restriction and can result in a traffic citation.

The passenger endorsement is part of Texas's graduated driver licensing system, designed to give new drivers supervised driving experience before they have full privileges. If you're under 18 and have held your license for less than six months, or if you're between 16 and 17 years old, you may be required to have this endorsement.

Key Takeaways

A passenger endorsement restricts you to driving only when passengers are in the vehicle; driving alone is a violation.
Texas requires a passenger endorsement for drivers under 18 who have held their license for fewer than six months.
You request a passenger endorsement at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office when you first obtain your license.
The endorsement is removed automatically after six months of holding your license, or you can request early removal if you meet the requirements.
You will need your current license, proof of identity, and proof of residency to make changes to your license at a DPS office.

When You Get a Passenger Endorsement During Your Initial License process

If you are under 18 and explore for your first Texas driver's license, the passenger endorsement is added automatically when you pass your driving test. You do not need to request it separately — the DPS examiner will note it on your license at the time of issuance. Your license will print with the restriction code, and you will see it listed on the front or back of your card.

The endorsement takes effect when ready once your license is issued. From that point forward, you are legally restricted to driving only when at least one passenger is present in the vehicle. Any violation of this restriction — such as driving alone — can result in a traffic stop and citation.

Requesting a Passenger Endorsement After You Already Have Your License

If you already hold a Texas driver's license without a passenger endorsement and you want to add one, you can request it at any DPS office. This is less common, but some drivers choose to add the restriction voluntarily, or a court may order it as part of a traffic violation resolution.

To add a passenger endorsement to an existing license, visit a DPS office in person with your current license, a form of identification (such as a passport or state ID), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease). Tell the clerk you want to add a passenger endorsement. They will process the request, take a new photo, and issue you a replacement license with the endorsement printed on it. There is a fee for a replacement license, which varies but is typically under $30.

How Long the Passenger Endorsement Stays on Your License

The passenger endorsement is temporary. If you are under 18, it remains on your license for six months from the date your license was issued. After six months, the restriction expires automatically, and you no longer need a passenger present to drive legally. You do not need to do anything — the endorsement straightforward stops being enforced after the six-month period ends.

However, your physical license card will still show the endorsement code even after it expires. If you want a clean license without the endorsement printed on it, you can request a replacement license at a DPS office after the six months have passed. This is optional; the expired endorsement on your card does not restrict your driving once the six-month period is over.

Removing a Passenger Endorsement Before Six Months

You can request early removal of a passenger endorsement before the six-month period ends, but only if you meet specific conditions. Texas allows early removal if you are at least 17 years old and have completed an approved driver education course (if you have not already). Some DPS offices may also allow early removal if you have maintained a clean driving record with no violations during the endorsement period.

To request early removal, contact your local DPS office and ask about their specific requirements. You will likely need to provide proof of your driver education completion (if required) and your current license. The office will review your record and, if you meet the criteria, issue a replacement license without the passenger endorsement. There is a fee for the replacement license.

What Happens If You Violate the Passenger Endorsement

Driving alone while your license has a passenger endorsement is a traffic violation. If a police officer stops you and finds you driving solo, you can receive a citation. The violation is typically classified as a minor traffic offense, but it goes on your driving record and can affect your insurance rates.

If you receive a citation for violating the passenger endorsement, you have the option to contest it in traffic court or pay the fine. Some courts allow you to have the violation dismissed if you can show that the endorsement has since expired or been removed. If you are unsure about your options, contact a traffic attorney or the court handling your case.

Documents You Need at a DPS Office

Whether you are adding a passenger endorsement to an existing license or need to verify your current endorsement status, bring these documents to a DPS office:

Your current Texas driver's license
A government-issued photo ID (passport, military ID, or state ID)
Proof of current Texas residency (utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or insurance document dated within the last 60 days)
Your Social Security number or a document showing it

If you are under 18, a parent or guardian may need to be present, depending on the DPS office's policy. Call ahead to confirm what documents your local office requires and whether an adult must accompany you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with my parents or guardians if I have a passenger endorsement?

Yes. The passenger endorsement requires only that at least one passenger be present in the vehicle. Your parents, guardians, siblings, or any other person counts as a passenger. The passenger does not need to be an adult.

Does the passenger endorsement appear on my license if I renew it?

If your endorsement has expired (after six months), it will not appear on a renewal license. If you renew your license before the six-month period ends, the endorsement will still be printed on your new license and remains in effect.

What if I turn 18 while I have a passenger endorsement?

Turning 18 does not automatically remove the passenger endorsement. The endorsement remains until six months have passed from your original license issue date. After that date, the restriction expires regardless of your age.

Can I get a passenger endorsement removed if I move out of Texas?

No. If you move to another state, you will need to obtain a driver's license in that state. Your Texas license and its passenger endorsement will no longer be valid for driving. Contact your new state's licensing authority about their requirements.

Is there a fee to add or remove a passenger endorsement?

Yes. Adding or removing an endorsement requires a replacement license, which typically costs under $30. The exact fee depends on your DPS office and your age. Call your local DPS office for the current fee.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.