The documents Texas requires depend on which license you're getting

Texas requires different documents based on whether you're getting your first license, renewing an expired one, or switching from another state. For a first-time license, you'll need proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and documentation of your legal presence in the United States. The exact papers vary — a passport works differently than a birth certificate — so knowing which documents you actually have on hand saves a trip to the DMV.

You can bring originals or certified copies of most documents. Texas does not accept photocopies or notarized copies unless the document itself is a certified copy from the issuing agency. If you're under 18, your parent or guardian must be present, and you'll need their ID as well.

Key Takeaways

  • You need one document proving identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID), one proving where you live (utility bill or lease), and one showing your Social Security number (Social Security card or W-2).
  • A U.S. passport or passport card counts as proof of identity, residency, and legal presence all in one document.
  • If you don't have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though the process takes longer.
  • Minors need a parent or guardian present with their own ID, plus a certified copy of the minor's birth certificate.
  • Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies and notarized copies are not accepted.

Proof of identity: what Texas accepts

Texas accepts a limited list of identity documents. A U.S. passport or passport card is the strongest option because it also proves legal presence and citizenship. A certified copy of your birth certificate works, but only if it's a certified copy from the vital records office — a photocopy or hospital-issued copy will not be accepted. A state ID from another state, a military ID, or a tribal ID also work.

If you have a passport, bring it. It simplifies the process because you won't need separate documents for residency or legal presence. If you don't have a passport, a certified birth certificate is the next easiest route. You can order a certified copy from the Texas Vital Statistics Unit or from the vital records office in the state where you were born.

Proof of residency: documents that show your address

Texas needs to see that you actually live where you say you do. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill all work — the document must show your name and current address. The bill or statement should be dated within the last 30 days, though some documents like a lease can be older if it's still active.

If you're living with family and don't have a bill in your name, a notarized affidavit from the person whose name is on the bill can work, but you'll also need that person's ID. A school enrollment letter or a letter from a homeless shelter also counts if you're in those situations. If you're military, a military ID with your current address works for residency.

Proof of Social Security number: what to bring

Your Social Security card is the simplest proof. If you don't have it, a W-2, 1099, or other tax document with your full Social Security number printed on it works. A pay stub with your full number also counts. The document must show your complete nine-digit number — partial numbers are not accepted.

If you don't have a Social Security number at all, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You'll need to bring your ITIN documentation and a letter from the IRS showing your ITIN. This path takes longer because Texas has to verify the ITIN with federal records.

Proof of legal presence: citizenship and immigration status

Texas requires proof that you are legally present in the United States. A U.S. passport or passport card proves this on its own. A certified birth certificate also proves citizenship. If you were born outside the U.S., you'll need a Certificate of Naturalization or a Permanent Resident Card (green card).

If you have a valid visa and are not yet a permanent resident or citizen, bring your passport with the visa and your I-94 arrival/departure record. You can print your I-94 from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website if you don't have the paper copy. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients can use their Employment Authorization Document (EAD) as proof of legal presence.

Documents for minors: what parents and guardians must bring

If you're under 18, your parent or legal guardian must come with you to the DMV. They need to bring their own valid ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID. You'll also need a certified copy of your birth certificate showing both parents' names, even if only one parent is present.

If you're a minor and your parents are divorced or separated, the parent explore for your license should bring custody documents or a court order showing they have the right to make decisions about your license. If you're in foster care or have a legal guardian other than your parents, bring the guardianship papers or foster care documentation.

What to do if you're missing a document

If you don't have a certified birth certificate, you can order one from the Texas Vital Statistics Unit online or by mail. The process takes one to two weeks. If you were born outside Texas, contact the vital records office in the state where you were born. Most states now offer online ordering.

If you don't have a Social Security card, you can request a replacement from the Social Security Administration. You can explore online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. Bring your birth certificate and ID. If you're waiting for a replacement, bring a letter from Social Security showing your process is pending — Texas may issue you a temporary license while you wait.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a school ID or work ID as proof of identity?

No. Texas only accepts a passport, birth certificate, state ID, military ID, or tribal ID as proof of identity. School and work IDs are not on the accepted list, even if they have your photo and address.

What if my name has changed since my birth certificate was issued?

Bring your birth certificate and a certified copy of the document that shows your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Texas will use both documents together to verify your identity.

Do I need to bring originals, or can I bring photocopies?

Bring originals or certified copies only. Photocopies, notarized copies, and faxes are not accepted. A certified copy is an official copy issued by the agency that created the document, with a seal or stamp.

What if I don't have a current address because I'm homeless?

You can use a letter from a homeless shelter, a social services agency, or a religious organization that confirms you are receiving services there. The letter must be dated within the last 30 days and include the organization's address and phone number.

Can my parent sign documents on my behalf if I'm under 18?

Your parent or guardian must be present in person at the DMV with you. They cannot sign documents remotely or send you alone. Texas requires the parent or guardian to verify your information and sign the process in front of the examiner.