How to apply for a driver’s license in Texas
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For many foreign visitors and immigrants to the United States, obtaining a valid driver’s license is an important step in their transition to life in the U.S. If you are one of these individuals and you are living in Texas, the process of getting a Texas driver’s license can be daunting. Fortunately, there are clear guidelines from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) that will help make the process easier.
To apply for a driver’s license in Texas, as a foreigner, you have to prove your legal presence in the country. Upon submitting your documents, the customer service representative (CSR) will verify your status with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. If the CSR cannot immediately confirm the information, you will be given instructions on what to do next.
Licenses for foreigners are issued with the legend “temporary visitor” and are valid only for the duration of the visa or permit to remain in the United States.
The applicant must also demonstrate residency in Texas, it can be through some proof of service, education, financial institutions, mortgage, etc. This must be within 90 days of the request date.
Along with documents proving legal presence and Texas residency, the applicant must:
- Check Texas vehicle registration and evidence of financial responsibility.
- Complete the application form found at the driver’s license office.
- Apply in person at any office with your documents.
- Pass the theory and driving test, which is offered in languages other than English.
If the applicant is under the age of 25, they must complete a driver education course before applying and, by April 1, 2015, the ITTD (an informational video on safety).
To verify their immigration status, the applicant can present one of the following documents:
- Foreign passport with your temporary I-551
- Passport or I-94 stamped “Approved I-551”
- Passport or stamped I-94 “Processed for I-551”
- Permission to re-enter the United States (Form I-327)
- I-94 or passport with the notation “Section 207” or “refugee”
- Refugee Travel Document (Form I-571)
- I-688B coded 274a.12 (a) (3)
- I-766 with category A3 or A03
- I-94 or passport with the notation “Section 208” or “asylee”
- I-688B coded 274a.12 (a) (5)
- I-766 with category A5 or A05
Apply for a Drivers License in Texas
Applying for a driver’s license in Texas is a relatively easy process. First, you must be at least 15 years old and have completed the necessary driver education requirements. Once you’ve met these criteria, you can make an appointment with your local Department of Public Safety (DPS) office to take the written and driving tests. When you arrive at the DPS office, bring two forms of identification, such as a birth certificate or passport, and proof of residency. You will also need to pay the applicable fees for your license.
After completing the tests, you will receive your learner’s permit. With this permit, you can practice driving with a licensed driver who is 21 years or older in the passenger seat. After holding your learner’s permit for six months and logging at least 30 hours of practice driving time with 10 of those hours being done at night, you can go back to the DPS office to take your road test and receive your full driver’s license.
Texas Learner’s Permit
Getting your learner’s permit in the state of Texas is a big step towards independence and freedom. Although the process can be both confusing and daunting, understanding all of the requirements you’ll need to meet will make it much easier.
In order to obtain a learner’s permit, you must be at least 15 years of age and have completed a Driver Education course or enrolled in an approved Parent-Taught Driver Education (PTDE) program. You will also need proof of identity such as your birth certificate passport, or social security card. Additionally, applicants are required to provide proof of residence and pass an eye exam conducted by their local Department of Public Safety office.
Road Test
Are you ready to get your driver’s license in Texas? Taking a road test is an important part of the licensing process. The first step is to apply for your learner’s permit or driver’s license at your local Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. After completing an application, it’s time to hit the road. In Texas, drivers must pass both a written test and a driving skills test in order to be eligible for a license. During the road test, you will be evaluated on your ability to follow traffic laws and safely operate a vehicle.
Before taking the official exam, practice with friends or family members who have already obtained their licenses. Make sure you familiarize yourself with all state-specific rules including speed limit regulations and signaling techniques.
Final Word
The process for obtaining a Texas driver’s license for foreigners is now easier than ever. After learning the requirements, gathering the necessary documents, and taking the appropriate tests, you are now ready to apply for a valid driver’s license in the State of Texas. While there may be additional steps required depending on your country of origin or visa type, this new policy makes it much easier to get on the road in Texas and enjoy all the state has to offer.
Resources
Here are some websites that provide information and resources on obtaining a Texas driver’s license for foreign individuals:
- Texas Department of Public Safety: https://www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/
- Texas Driver License for Non-US Citizens: https://www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/nonUScitizens.htm
- Texas DMV Guide: https://www.dmv.org/tx-texas/
- Texas DMV Services for Foreigners: https://www.dmv.org/tx-texas/foreign-nationals/
- DMV.ORG: https://www.dmv.org/tx-texas/foreign-nationals/international-driving-permit.php
These websites can provide information on the requirements, procedures, and documents needed to obtain a Texas driver’s license for foreign individuals, as well as information on international driving permits. It is recommended to check with the Texas Department of Public Safety for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
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