What Texas offers and what you need to know first
Texas does not issue a standard driver license to people without proof of lawful presence in the United States. However, Texas does offer a Temporary Visitor Driver License (TVDL), which is a valid driving document you can obtain if you are undocumented and meet specific requirements. This license looks different from a standard license, is valid for two years, and allows you to drive legally in Texas — though it will not work for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building.
The key requirement is that you must have a valid passport or travel document from your country of origin, proof of a Texas address, and proof of your identity. You do not need a Social Security number. The process takes place entirely at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, and you can complete it in one visit if you bring all required documents.
Key Takeaways
- Texas issues a Temporary Visitor Driver License to undocumented residents, valid for two years, which allows you to drive legally within the state.
- You must bring a valid passport or travel document, proof of a Texas address (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of identity to a DPS office.
- You do not need a Social Security number, and you will not be asked about immigration status during the process process.
- The TVDL cannot be used for federal purposes like domestic air travel or entering federal buildings, but it is recognized by police for driving stops.
- The process fee is the same as a standard license, and the license is valid for two years from the date of issue.
Documents you must bring to the DPS office
Bring your original passport or travel document issued by your country of origin. This is your primary proof of identity and is required — a photocopy will not work. The document must be valid (not expired) or expired no more than two years ago, depending on your country's rules.
You also need proof of a Texas address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and a Texas address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have one of these, a letter from a social service agency, school, or employer on letterhead stating your address can work, though DPS prefers the documents listed first.
Finally, bring proof of your identity beyond the passport — this can be a national ID card from your home country, a consular ID (such as a Mexican consulate ID card), or a school or work ID. DPS wants two forms of identification to confirm you are who you say you are.
How to find and visit a DPS office
Go to the Texas Department of Public Safety website and use their office locator tool to find the DPS office nearest you. Not all offices issue the Temporary Visitor Driver License, so call ahead or check the office details online to confirm they offer this service. Many larger cities have multiple offices, and some are less busy than others — calling first can save you a trip.
Bring all your documents in originals (not copies, except for the address proof). You will fill out Form DL-44, which is the standard driver license process. The form asks for your name, date of birth, address, and driving history — it does not ask about immigration status. You will also take a photo, pass a vision test, and take a written driving test covering Texas traffic laws. If you have a valid license from another country, you may be able to waive the written test, but ask the DPS staff when you arrive.
The fee for a Temporary Visitor Driver License is the same as a standard Texas driver license — currently around $30 to $35, though this can vary. Payment is cash or card. You will receive your license on the spot or within a few days if they need to mail it.
What the Temporary Visitor Driver License does and does not cover
The TVDL allows you to drive legally on Texas roads and is recognized by police during traffic stops. It satisfies the legal requirement to carry a driver license while driving. Insurance companies will recognize it as a valid license for the purpose of insuring your vehicle.
The TVDL cannot be used for federal purposes. You cannot use it to board a domestic flight, enter a federal courthouse, or access a federal building that requires ID. It is also not accepted as proof of identity for opening a bank account at most institutions, though some banks and credit unions have different rules — call ahead if you need to open an account. Some states do not recognize the TVDL if you are driving through them, so if you travel outside Texas, check the rules of the state you are entering.
The license is valid for two years from the date of issue. When it expires, you can renew it by returning to a DPS office with the same documents, or you may be able to renew by mail if your passport is still valid.
Renewing or replacing your Temporary Visitor Driver License
If your license is expiring soon, you can renew it up to 60 days before the expiration date. You can renew in person at a DPS office with the same documents you brought for the original process, or you can renew by mail if your passport is still valid and your address has not changed. The renewal fee is the same as the original fee.
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement at any DPS office. Bring your passport, proof of address, and proof of identity, just as you did for the original process. There is a replacement fee, which is typically lower than the cost of a new license.
If your passport expires or is revoked, your TVDL will no longer be valid. You will need to renew your passport through your country's consulate or embassy before you can renew your driver license.
What to expect at the vision and written tests
The vision test checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. You will read letters or numbers on a chart from a set distance. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them and wear them during the test. If you fail the vision test, you will be told on the spot and can retake it, though you may need to see an eye doctor first.
The written test covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. It is given on a computer at the DPS office and typically has 30 to 40 questions. You must answer at least 70 percent correctly to pass. The test is available in English and Spanish. If you have a valid driver license from another country, ask the DPS staff whether you can skip this test — some offices waive it for people with prior driving experience.
If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or return another day. There is no extra fee for retakes.
Using your license to register a vehicle and get insurance
Once you have your TVDL, you can use it to register a vehicle in Texas. Go to your county tax assessor-collector's office with your TVDL, proof of ownership (such as a bill of sale or title), proof of a Texas address, and the vehicle identification number (VIN). The registration process is the same as for any driver — you do not need to disclose immigration status.
You can also use your TVDL to purchase auto insurance. Call insurance companies directly or visit their websites to ask whether they will insure you with a TVDL. Most major insurers will, though some may charge slightly higher rates or require additional documentation. Having a valid driver license and a clean driving record will help you get better rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will DPS report me to immigration authorities?
No. The Texas Department of Public Safety does not share driver license information with federal immigration authorities. DPS is a state agency and does not have a data-sharing agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for the purpose of immigration enforcement. Your information is protected under Texas state law.
Can I get a standard Texas driver license instead of the Temporary Visitor Driver License?
No. Texas law requires proof of lawful presence in the United States to issue a standard driver license. If you do not have that proof, the TVDL is the only driver license option available to you in Texas.
What if my passport is expired?
An expired passport can still be used to obtain a TVDL if it expired no more than two years ago — the exact rule depends on your country of origin. Contact your country's consulate or embassy in Texas to find out the rules for your passport. You can also call a DPS office and ask whether your specific passport will be accepted.
Can I use my TVDL to cross the border into Mexico?
No. The TVDL is only valid for driving within Texas. To cross the border, you need a valid passport or a passport card issued by your country. Some people also use a Trusted Traveler card like SENTRI or NEXUS if they have one.
What happens if I get pulled over while driving on an expired TVDL?
Driving with an expired license is illegal in Texas, and you can be cited. Renew your license before it expires by visiting a DPS office or renewing by mail if your passport is still valid. If your license has already expired, go to a DPS office as soon as you can to renew it.