TXT is a restriction code that means you can only drive an automatic transmission vehicle
When you see "TXT" printed on your Texas driver's license, it is a transmission restriction. It means the Texas Department of Public Safety has recorded that you are only permitted to operate vehicles with automatic transmissions. You cannot legally drive a manual transmission (stick shift) vehicle while this restriction is on your license.
This restriction is typically added during your driving test. If you take your road test in an automatic transmission vehicle, the examiner will note that fact. Texas then places the TXT code on your license to match the type of vehicle you demonstrated you could operate safely.
The restriction stays on your license until you request it be removed by passing a road test in a manual transmission vehicle. Once you do, you can drive either type of transmission without limitation.
Key Takeaways
- TXT on your Texas license means you can only legally drive automatic transmission vehicles.
- The restriction is added if you pass your road test in an automatic vehicle.
- You can remove the restriction by scheduling a new road test in a manual transmission vehicle and passing it.
- Driving a manual transmission vehicle while the TXT restriction is active is a violation and can result in a ticket.
- The restriction does not affect your ability to drive automatic vehicles or your license validity.
How the restriction gets added to your license
When you take your Texas driving test, you bring a vehicle to the testing location. The examiner notes what type of transmission that vehicle has. If it is an automatic, the examiner records this during your test. When your license is issued after you pass, the TXT code is printed on it automatically.
You do not have to request this restriction. It is added based on the vehicle you used for testing. Many new drivers do not realize this will happen and are surprised to see it on their license later.
If you took your test in a manual transmission vehicle and passed, no TXT code will appear on your license. You will have full driving privileges for both transmission types from the start.
Removing the TXT restriction from your license
To remove the TXT restriction, you must schedule a new road test with the Texas Department of Public Safety. You will need to bring a manual transmission vehicle to the testing location and pass the driving test in that vehicle.
Contact your local DPS office to schedule the test. You will pay the standard road test fee, which varies by location but is typically under $50. The test itself follows the same format as your original test — the examiner will evaluate your ability to operate the manual transmission vehicle safely.
Once you pass, your license will be updated. The TXT code will be removed, and you will receive a new license card reflecting your unrestricted status. This process usually takes a few weeks from the time you pass the test.
What happens if you drive a manual transmission vehicle with the TXT restriction
Driving a manual transmission vehicle while the TXT restriction is on your license is a violation of Texas traffic law. A law enforcement officer can cite you for this violation during a traffic stop or accident.
The violation is typically classified as driving in violation of license restrictions. Penalties can include a fine, points on your driving record, and potential increases to your insurance rates. The severity depends on the officer's discretion and whether the violation contributed to an accident or other incident.
Insurance companies may also deny a claim if you were driving a vehicle type prohibited by your license restrictions at the time of an accident. This makes it important to either remove the restriction or stick to automatic transmission vehicles.
Renting or borrowing a manual transmission vehicle
If you want to borrow a friend's manual transmission car or rent one, you cannot do so legally while the TXT restriction is active. Even if the owner gives you permission, your license does not permit you to operate that vehicle type.
Some car rental companies may ask about license restrictions when you rent. If you attempt to rent a manual transmission vehicle with a TXT restriction, they may refuse the rental or require you to sign a waiver acknowledging the violation risk.
The safest approach is to remove the restriction before you need to drive a manual vehicle. This takes one test and removes the limitation permanently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get the TXT restriction removed without taking another road test?
No. Texas requires you to pass a road test in a manual transmission vehicle to remove the restriction. There is no alternative process or waiver option. You must demonstrate to an examiner that you can safely operate a manual transmission vehicle.
Does the TXT restriction affect my ability to drive automatic vehicles?
No. The restriction only limits you to automatic transmissions. You can drive any automatic transmission vehicle without limitation. The restriction does not affect your license validity or your driving privileges for automatics.
What if I took my test in an automatic but now own a manual transmission car?
You will need to schedule a new road test in your manual transmission vehicle to remove the TXT code. Until you do, you cannot legally drive that car. Once you pass the test, the restriction is removed and you can drive both types.
How long does it take to get a new license after removing the TXT restriction?
After you pass the road test in a manual transmission vehicle, your license will be updated in the system. You will receive a new physical license card in the mail within a few weeks. You can request an expedited replacement if you need it sooner, though this may involve an additional fee.
Can I challenge the TXT restriction if I believe it was added in error?
The restriction is added based on the vehicle you used during your road test. If you believe an error occurred, contact your local DPS office with details about your test. However, the most straightforward resolution is to take another road test in the transmission type you want to drive.