If you plan to operate a motor vehicle (car or a motorcycle) in the United States, you must apply for a Texas Driver's License. International Driver's Licenses may only be used for a limited amount of time after you first arrive in the United States.
Why do I need a Texas State ID?
If you do not plan to operate a motor vehicle in the United States but you want an alternative source of identification, you may apply for a Texas State ID. Texas State IDs prove your identity locally without needing to carry a passport everywhere. For international travel or travel outside the Dallas/Fort Worth area, carry your passport.
- Valid Passport and Valid I-20 or DS-2019
- Form I-94
- Completed application and application fee
- TWO documents that prove Texas residency Current rental/lease agreement that includes your name and is more than 30 days old
- Water bill, electric bill, internet bill, or cell phone bill with Texas address dated within 90 days of application date but at least 30 days old
- Paycheck/pay stub with Texas address that is less than 90 days old but at least 30 days old
- Mailed bank statement with Texas address that is less than 90 days old but at least 30 days old
- Proof of Social Security Number - If you do not have one, you will sign an affidavit to attest you are not eligible for an SSN
- Familiarity with the Texas Driver Handbook to pass a written exam
- Ability to pass a driving test
- Proof of Impact Texas Driver (ITD) Completion
- 18-24 Year Olds: Proof of completion of a 6-hour adult driver education course
- Vehicle Owners: evidence of Texas vehicle registration and proof of vehicle insurance