Quick Answer
No. Texas requires non-citizens to prove lawful presence before the Department of Public Safety (DPS) issues a driver license, and an ITIN doesn't count. New residents can drive on a valid license from another U.S. state or a qualifying country for up to 90 days, then must get a Texas license.
Can You Get a Driver's License in Texas Without Legal Status?
No. Texas Transportation Code §521.142 requires an applicant who isn't a U.S. citizen to show federal documents authorizing them to be in the United States before DPS issues a license. Texas has no license or driving card for residents without status, and an ITIN is only an IRS tax number.
DPS checks immigration documents before issuing any license to a non-citizen.
Who Can Get a Texas Driver's License?
Citizens, green-card holders and people whose documents show lawful presence, such as visa holders with an I-94, asylees, refugees and DACA recipients with a valid Employment Authorization Document, can get a Texas license. Texas has license reciprocity with France, Germany, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates and Taiwan, so those licenses usually skip the tests.
See the DPS guide for people moving to Texas.
Can I Drive in Texas With a License From Another State?
Yes, as a visitor, and as a new resident for up to 90 days. DPS says you can drive on a valid, unexpired license from another U.S. state for 90 days after moving to Texas. Unlike Florida and Tennessee, Texas hasn't voided other states' licenses issued without lawful presence, but residents must then get a Texas license.
After 90 days, a Texas resident needs a Texas license, and DPS requires lawful presence for it. Source: Texas DPS.
Can I Drive in Texas With a License From My Country?
Yes, for up to 90 days after moving, if your license is from a qualifying country. DPS says licenses that aren't in English or Spanish must be translated. To keep driving after that, a Texas resident needs a Texas license, which requires lawful presence.
An International Driving Permit only translates your license; carry it with the original.
What Are Your Options in Texas Without a License?
Texas DPS licenses only people with lawful presence, and driving without a license can bring a fine of up to $200 under Transportation Code §521.025; a third conviction within a year can mean 72 hours to 6 months in jail. Without a work permit, the choices narrow to moving to neighboring New Mexico or not driving.
- Know the penalty. Transportation Code §521.025 raises the fine range to $25–$500 for a third conviction within a year.
- New Mexico is the only licensing neighbor. Of the 4 states bordering Texas, only New Mexico licenses residents regardless of status, and its standard license is for people who actually live there, not Texas residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can undocumented immigrants get a driver's license in Texas?
No. Texas Transportation Code §521.142 requires non-citizens to prove they're authorized to be in the United States, and Texas has no license for residents without status.
Can I use an ITIN for a Texas driver's license?
No. An ITIN is an IRS tax number, not a federal immigration document.
How long can I drive in Texas on an out-of-state license?
Up to 90 days after you move to Texas, according to DPS. After that you need a Texas license.
Can DACA recipients get a Texas driver's license?
Yes. DACA recipients with a valid Employment Authorization Document can apply with their immigration documents.