Getting a Texas State ID for the First Time: Online Application and Appointment

PDF download Download Article
Your road to a state-issued ID cards in Texas starts here
PDF download Download Article

Have you recently moved to Texas and need a state ID? Even if you don't drive, an official state ID helps prove your identity so you can easily vote, buy alcohol, or fly on a plane. Just make sure you do this well in advance of the date you might need it—it can take up to 6 weeks to get the actual ID after you submit your application. [1] Read on to find out everything you need to know to get your ID, including what specific documents you need to bring with you.

How to Apply for a Texas State ID

  • Bring original documents to prove your US citizenship or lawful presence, Texas residency, identity, and Social Security number.
  • Download, print, and fill out the application before you go to the Driver License Office to apply.
  • Make an appointment to apply in person at your local Driver License Office.
  • Be prepared to wait 4-6 weeks for your official ID to arrive in the mail.
Part 1
Part 1 of 2:

Required Documents

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8e\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8e\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you're a US citizen, you can prove your citizenship with either a valid, unexpired passport or an original US birth certificate. If you are not a US citizen, use at least one of the following documents to prove your lawful presence in the US: [2]
    • A valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551)
    • A machine-readable Immigrant Visa with temporary I-551 language and ADIT stamp
    • A valid, unexpired foreign passport, visa (either valid or expired), and valid I-94
    • A valid, unexpired employment authorization document (EAD, Form I-766)
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2e\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2e\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You have to live in Texas for at least 30 days before you're eligible for a state ID, although you can skip this waiting period if you give them your valid driver's license or state ID from another state. Bring at least 2 original documents from the following list to prove your Texas residency: [3]
    • Current deed, mortgage, mortgage statement, or residential rental/lease agreement
    • Valid, unexpired Texas voter registration card
    • Valid, unexpired Texas motor vehicle registration or title
    • Valid, unexpired Texas boat registration or title
    • Valid, unexpired Texas concealed handgun license (CHL) or license to carry (LTC)
    • Utility bill (such as an electric, water, or cell phone bill) with your name and address on it dated within 90 days of the date of your appointment
    • Selective service card
    • Current homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, statement, or card
    • Texas high school, college, or university report card or transcript for the current school year
    • Preprinted tax or financial statements from an employer, government, or financial institution, including pay stubs
    • Current Form DS2019 or other document issued by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d8\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d8\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Texas law requires you to have a Social Security number to get a Texas ID. Your original Social Security card is proof of that. If you don't have your Social Security card, go ahead and get one before you apply for a Texas ID. You won't need to show it if your Social Security number is already in the system, but if you're not sure if it is, it's better not to risk it. [4]
    • If you need to apply for your ID in a hurry and don't have time to wait for a Social Security card, see if you have a W-2, SSA-1099 form, or pay stub with your Social Security number on it. Those will work to verify your number.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/35\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/35\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The easiest way to prove your identity is with a single identity document from the primary list. If you don't have one of those, you can use 2 documents on the secondary list. If you don't have 2 documents on the secondary list, you need at least 1 from the secondary list and 2 from the supporting list. [5]
    • Primary identity documents: US passport, Texas driver license or ID card not expired for more than 2 years, US certificate of citizenship or naturalization, USCIS document with verifiable information and photo, valid foreign passport with attached visa, unexpired US military ID card
    • Secondary identity documents: original or certified copy of a US birth certificate, original or certified copy of a court order for a name or gender change, other birth documents issued by a state or local government
    • Supporting identity documents (at least 2): Social Security card, Form W-2 or 1099, driver license or ID card issued by another US state or territory, others (see https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/identification-requirements for the full list)
    • If you're using a name that's different from the one on your birth certificate, you also need a document that shows proof that your name was legally changed, such as a marriage certificate or a court order.
    5. Advertisement
Part 2
Part 2 of 2:

Submitting Your Application

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/06\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/06\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Go to https://www.dps.texas.gov/internetforms/Forms/DL-14A.pdf to access the application. Type your answers into the form, then print it out to take with you to the Driver License office. [6]
    • Do not sign the form after you print it out. Wait until the license and permit specialist at the Driver License Office tells you to sign it.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/03\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/03\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The Driver License Office offers ID card services by appointment only. As a first-time applicant, you have to apply in person, so go to https://public.txdpsscheduler.com/ to schedule your appointment. If you're renewing, you can do that completely online. [7]
    • If you don't see the closest office to you listed when you go to schedule an appointment online, that means that office doesn't have any available appointments. Try the one next closest to you and see if they have anything.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/13\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/13\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The specialist will put the information from your application into the computer and verify your documents. This might take a few minutes—if they have any questions, they'll let you know. [8]
    • If you've got all of the original documents on the list, you should be fine. Just answer any questions from the specialist honestly. If something you brought isn't acceptable, they'll tell you what you need to do.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e2\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e2\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The specialist will get you to sign the signature block on your application—this is the signature that will appear on your ID card. Then, they'll take digital thumbprints as an additional step to protect your identity. [9]
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/ab\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/ab\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The specialist will direct you to a photo area to take your photo. Typically, they'll tell you to use a neutral facial expression—just a blank face, not a smile. [10]
    • Don't worry too much about how your ID photo looks. It's totally normal for this to not be the best picture ever taken of you.
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/70\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-10-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-10-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/70\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-10-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-10-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    As of 2024, the fee for an ID card is $16 if you're 59 or younger. If you're 60 or older, the fee is only $6. You can pay your fee using cash, personal check, money order, or credit card. [11]
    • Your ID is valid for 6 years and expires on your birthday. When you renew, you'll pay the same fee.
  7. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4d\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-11-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-11-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/4d\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-11-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-11-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Once you pay your fee, the specialist will issue your ID and print out a temporary copy for you to use until you get the official card in the mail. Read the information on the card carefully and make sure it's all correct. [12]
    • If something's wrong, let the specialist know so they can correct it immediately before your card is made.
  8. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5e\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-12-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-12-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5e\/Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-12-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-an-ID-in-Texas-Step-12-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Unfortunately, there's no way to expedite this process, so plan ahead if you need your ID for a specific purpose. Most places will accept your temporary ID with no problems in the meantime. [13]
    9. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Is a parent required to accompany an 18-year-old to obtain their ID card?
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    No, an 18-year-old is a legal adult. A parent isn't required to accompany anyone under 18, either.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 3 Helpful 4
  • Question
    Am I able to submit the completed "TEXAS DRIVER LICENSE OR IDENTIFICATION CARD APPLICATION" online in El Paso, Texas, or do I have to take it in to the Motor Vehicle Department?
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    Texas does not accept online applications anywhere in the state if it's your first time getting an ID. You have to take the completed application with you to your appointment at the Driver License Office so they can take your photo and fingerprints and witness your signature on the application.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 4 Helpful 12
  • Question
    I need an ID card for air travel. Can I get it faster? I need it in about 10 days.
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
    wikiHow Staff Editor
    Staff Answer
    Unfortunately, there's no way to speed up the process of getting your official ID card. Your temporary card should work, although you might want to also bring along another form of identification to back it up. It'll be fine within the state of Texas, but you might run into problems outside the state simply because security personnel aren't familiar with the Texas temporary ID and don't know how to verify it.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 6 Helpful 4
See more answers
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Tips from our Readers

      The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
      • Make sure your original birth certificate is legible to avoid getting denied.
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      Becoming a Legal Resident of Texas for Tuition, Tax, Voting, or ID Purposes
      How to
      Become a Florida Resident from Another State in Just 12 Steps
      How to
      Work in the USA
      How to
      Get an Illinois State ID
      An Expert-Approved Guide to Becoming a Legal Resident of California
      How to
      Get a New York State ID
      How to
      Become an Alaska Resident
      How to
      Move to the US and Begin a New Life
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/how-apply-texas-identification-card
      2. ↑ https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/identification-requirements
      3. ↑ https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/texas-residency-requirement-driver-licenses-and-id-cards
      4. ↑ https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/social-security-number-ssn
      5. ↑ https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/identification-requirements
      6. ↑ https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/how-apply-texas-identification-card
      7. ↑ https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/driver-license-services-appointments
      8. ↑ https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/how-apply-texas-identification-card
      9. ↑ https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/how-apply-texas-identification-card
      1. ↑ https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/how-apply-texas-identification-card
      2. ↑ https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/driver-license-fees
      3. ↑ https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/how-apply-texas-identification-card
      4. ↑ https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/how-apply-texas-identification-card
      5. ↑ https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/how-apply-texas-identification-card
      6. ↑ https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/texas-residency-requirement-driver-licenses-and-id-cards

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 238,869 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Cartlidge C.

        Mar 5, 2021

        "It gave me all the information I need to find and do what I need to. Thanks."
      More reader stories Hide reader stories
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement