The physical card and what you'll see on it
A Texas driver's license is a plastic card the size of a credit card. The front shows your photo on the left side, your name, date of birth, and address. On the right side is a barcode and a magnetic stripe that stores your information. The card is primarily white with a blue stripe across the top that says "TEXAS" and includes the state seal.
Your license number appears on the front and back. The back of the card lists your height, eye color, any restrictions on your driving (like corrective lenses required), and an endorsement code if you have a commercial license or motorcycle endorsement. The expiration date is printed prominently on the front.
Texas licenses issued after September 2017 include a security feature called a hologram on the front. This three-dimensional image is difficult to counterfeit and helps verify that the license is genuine. The card also has a ghost image — a faint second copy of your photo — which is another anti-fraud measure.
Key Takeaways
- Your Texas driver's license is a credit-card-sized plastic card with your photo, name, date of birth, and address on the front.
- The back lists your height, eye color, any driving restrictions, and your license number.
- Texas licenses include security features like a hologram and ghost image to prevent counterfeiting.
- The expiration date is on the front, and you must renew before that date to keep your license valid.
- Your license number is unique to you and is used to look up your driving record and insurance information.
How your photo appears on the license
The photo on your Texas driver's license must meet specific requirements set by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Your photo must be taken within 6 months of your process, be in color, and show your face clearly from the front. You cannot wear sunglasses, tinted glasses, or a hat that covers your hair or forehead, unless you have a medical or religious reason.
The background of the photo must be plain and light-colored. Your expression should be neutral, and your eyes must be open and looking directly at the camera. If you wear corrective lenses for driving, you should wear them in your photo so the image matches how you look when you are behind the wheel.
Information stored in the barcode and magnetic stripe
The barcode and magnetic stripe on your Texas driver's license contain encoded versions of the information printed on the card itself. When a police officer, business, or other entity scans your license, the barcode or stripe pulls up your name, address, date of birth, license number, and driving record status.
This encoded information helps verify that the card is authentic and that the printed information has not been altered. The barcode can be scanned by hand-held devices, while the magnetic stripe requires a card reader. Both serve the same purpose: to quickly confirm your identity and check whether your license is valid or suspended.
Restrictions and endorsements shown on your license
If your license has restrictions, they appear on the back as a letter code. Common restrictions include "B" (corrective lenses required), "D" (hearing aid required), and "E" (automatic transmission only). These restrictions mean you must follow those conditions when driving, or your license can be suspended.
Endorsements are different from restrictions — they give you permission to drive certain types of vehicles. An "M" endorsement means you can ride motorcycles. A "C" endorsement means you can drive a commercial vehicle. You cannot drive a motorcycle or commercial vehicle without the proper endorsement, even if you hold a valid driver's license.
Expiration dates and renewal timing
Your Texas driver's license expires on your birthday, typically 5 or 8 years after it is issued, depending on your age when you received it. The expiration date is printed on the front of the card in large numbers. You can renew your license up to 2 years before it expires, which gives you time to plan ahead.
If your license has expired, you cannot legally drive. Driving on an expired license can result in a traffic ticket and a fine. The Texas Department of Public Safety sends renewal reminders by mail about 60 days before your expiration date, though you are responsible for renewing on time even if you do not receive a reminder.
How to check if your license is real
The hologram on the front of your Texas license is one of the easiest ways to verify it is genuine. When you tilt the card under light, the hologram should show a three-dimensional image that changes as you move the card. If the hologram is flat or does not move, the license may be counterfeit.
The ghost image — the faint second photo visible when you hold the card at an angle — is another security feature. The printed information should be sharp and clear, with no smudging or fading. The card itself should feel sturdy and not bend easily. If you suspect your license is counterfeit or has been altered, contact the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Differences between a standard license and other types
A standard Texas driver's license allows you to drive passenger vehicles. A commercial driver's license (CDL) has a different design and includes additional information about the types of commercial vehicles you can operate. A CDL is larger and has a red stripe instead of blue, and it requires a separate written test and road test.
A Texas identification card (ID) looks similar to a driver's license but is issued to people who do not drive. It has the same size, photo requirements, and security features as a driver's license, but it does not include driving restrictions or endorsements. Both serve as valid forms of identification for age verification and other purposes.
Real ID compliance and what changed on your license
Starting in 2020, Texas began issuing Real ID-compliant driver's licenses. These licenses have a gold star in the upper right corner of the front of the card. A Real ID license meets federal security standards and can be used for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings without a passport.
If your license does not have a gold star, it is still valid for driving, but you cannot use it alone for domestic air travel after May 7, 2025. You would need a passport or other federal ID instead. When you renew your license, you can request a Real ID-compliant license if you bring the required documents, such as proof of citizenship and proof of residence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear glasses in my driver's license photo?
You can wear glasses if they are required for driving and do not have tinted lenses or reflections that hide your eyes. Sunglasses and heavily tinted glasses are not allowed. If you wear glasses while driving, wearing them in your photo helps may support the image matches how you look on the road.
What does the gold star on my Texas license mean?
The gold star means your license is Real ID-compliant and meets federal security standards. You can use it for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. If your license does not have a gold star, you will need a passport or other federal ID for air travel after May 7, 2025.
What happens if I drive with an expired license?
Driving with an expired license is illegal in Texas and can result in a traffic ticket and fine. You should renew your license before the expiration date printed on the front. You can renew up to 2 years early, so you have time to plan ahead.
Can I have a license with a motorcycle endorsement and a commercial endorsement at the same time?
Yes, you can have multiple endorsements on one license. Your license will show all endorsements you have earned. Each endorsement requires passing a separate test, but once you have them, they all appear on the same card.
What should I do if my license photo does not look like me?
You can request a new photo when you renew your license. If your license is not expiring soon and you want to update your photo, you can visit a Texas Department of Public Safety office and pay a fee to replace your license with a new photo.