Learn About Getting a Texas Identification Card

What Is a Texas Identification Card?

A Texas Identification Card, often called a Texas ID, is an official document issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). Unlike a driver's license, this card does not give you permission to drive. Instead, it serves as a form of government-issued photo identification that proves who you are and that you live in Texas. The Texas ID card is rectangular, wallet-sized, and includes your photograph, name, date of birth, address, and a unique identification number.

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Many people obtain a Texas ID because they do not drive or have lost their driver's license. Others use it for identification purposes when traveling by air, entering federal buildings, or conducting business that requires proof of identity. The card is also useful for people under 21 who want an official ID for age verification purposes, such as when purchasing age-restricted items. Texas issues around 1.5 million ID cards annually, showing how common this document is among Texas residents.

The Texas ID card serves as proof of identity and Texas residency. It can be used at banks, hospitals, government offices, and retail locations where identification is needed. The card displays a security feature called a hologram to prevent counterfeiting. Your card will have an expiration date, typically five or six years from the date of issue, depending on your age at the time of issuance.

One key difference between a Texas ID and a driver's license is cost. A Texas ID is less expensive than a driver's license and does not require you to pass a driving test. However, the application process involves similar verification steps to ensure accuracy and security. Understanding what a Texas ID is will help you determine whether obtaining one makes sense for your situation.

Practical takeaway: A Texas ID is a photo identification card for people who do not need a driver's license but want an official form of ID for everyday identification needs.

Who Can Get a Texas Identification Card

To obtain a Texas ID card, you must meet certain requirements set by the Texas Department of Public Safety. First, you must be a resident of Texas. This means you must have lived in Texas for at least 30 days before submitting your materials to the DPS office. Your residency is verified through documentation showing your name and current Texas address. Acceptable documents for proving residency include a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement.

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Second, you must provide proof of your identity. Texas accepts several documents as proof of identity, including a U.S. passport, birth certificate, certificate of naturalization, or an existing valid driver's license or ID card. The document must show your name and date of birth. If your document is expired, it may still be accepted as long as the expiration date is not older than a certain timeframe set by DPS standards.

Third, you must establish your Social Security number. You will need to provide your Social Security number (SSN) or show documentation that you do not have one. The DPS verifies this information with the Social Security Administration to ensure accuracy. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to bring a document from the Social Security Administration indicating this status.

You must also be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with valid immigration documentation. If you are not yet a citizen but have a valid visa or work permit, you may still be able to obtain a Texas ID, though some additional documents may be required. People who have been ordered by a court not to hold an identification card, or who have certain conviction histories, may be restricted from obtaining a card.

Age does affect the process slightly. Texas residents of any age, including children and seniors, can obtain an ID card. However, if you are under 18, you will need a parent or legal guardian to sign your materials. The cost of the card is reduced for seniors over 60 and for people with certain disabilities.

Practical takeaway: You need proof of Texas residency, proof of identity, and your Social Security number to obtain a Texas ID card. Most Texas residents who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents can get one.

Documents You Need to Bring

Gathering the correct documents before visiting a DPS office will make your visit faster and more successful. The Texas Department of Public Safety requires original documents or certified copies—photocopies are not accepted. You will need to bring multiple forms of documentation because the DPS requires proof in several categories: identity, residency, and Social Security number status.

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For proof of identity, bring one primary document from this list: a U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate issued by the state, certificate of naturalization, or a currently valid driver's license or ID card. Your identity document must show your name and date of birth. If your document is in a different name than what you currently use (for example, if you changed your name after marriage), bring additional documentation showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

For proof of residency, bring a document that shows your name and your current Texas address. Documents must be dated within the last 30 days or less. Examples include: a recent utility bill (electric, water, gas, or internet), a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax statement, a homeowner's insurance policy, a vehicle registration, or a bank statement. If you are homeless or living temporarily with someone, the DPS has alternative procedures you can discuss with office staff.

For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card if you have it. If you do not have your card, bring your Social Security number written down or bring tax documentation showing your number. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming this status. Non-U.S. citizens may bring an individual tax identification number (ITIN) documentation in some cases.

If you are applying on behalf of someone under 18, bring a parent's or legal guardian's photo ID as well. Some applicants may need additional documents. For example, if you are a non-U.S. citizen, bring your visa, work permit, or other immigration documentation. If you changed your name, bring the legal document showing this change. If you have a disability and want a reduced fee, bring documentation of that disability.

Practical takeaway: Bring original documents showing your identity, Texas residency, and Social Security information. Having these documents ready before visiting a DPS office will speed up the process.

How to Submit Your Materials to the DPS

There are several ways to begin the Texas ID card process with the Texas Department of Public Safety. The most common method is to visit a DPS office in person. Texas has over 130 driver's license offices located throughout the state, and all of them can process Texas ID applications. You can use the DPS website to find the office nearest to you and see its hours of operation. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, and some are open on Saturday mornings.

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Before visiting, you may be able to make an appointment through the DPS website. Making an appointment can reduce your wait time, as the DPS allows customers to schedule specific times for service. However, appointments are not always required, and walk-in customers are also served. Wait times vary by location and time of day. Some urban offices may have longer waits during peak times, such as lunch hours or late afternoons, while rural offices may have shorter waits.

When you visit the DPS office, bring all your documents. An employee will review your materials to make sure everything is in order. The DPS staff member will ask you questions about your information and may ask you to sign a form. You will have your photograph taken at the office—this photo will appear on your ID card. The photo will show your face clearly against a plain background, similar to a passport photo. You do not need to wear any special clothing, but you should be neat and presentable.

You will also need to pay a fee at the time of your visit. As of 2024, the cost of a standard Texas ID card for adults is $16. Reduced fees are available for seniors age 60 and older (typically around $8 to $10) and for people with qualifying disabilities (also reduced rates). If you have financial hardship, some DPS offices may consider fee reductions, though this is handled case-by-case. You can pay by cash, check, or card at most offices.

After the DPS processes your materials, your card will be mailed to the address you provided. Standard delivery typically takes 7 to 10 business days, though this can vary. During this time, you may be given a receipt or temporary ID number that you can use as proof while waiting for your card to