How to Apply for a Driver’s License or Identification Card

A Texas driver's license is not only a document demonstrating authorization to drive, it is also a nationally accepted form of identification that can be used to prove your identity. The Texas State ID is only used as an identification card.

What documents will you need to apply?

[ ] Current I-20 (F1) or DS-2019 (J1)
[ ] Printed I-94 Arrival Record (obtain this from the CBP Website using your passport)
[ ] Passport and Visa
[ ] SEU ID Card
[ ] Social Security Card (Only if you have one already)
- [ ] If you do not have a SSN, it is not required to provide one. You will be able to fill out an affidavit with the Texas Department of Public Safety confirming you do not have an SSN. You can review this information on their website.
[ ] 2 forms of proof of Texas residency (One of the documents must verify that you have lived in Texas for at least 30 days)
[ ] Proof of insurance (if applying for a driver’s license; it is not needed if only applying for the ID)

<aside> 📄 What documents can you present as proof of Texas residency in general?

[ ] Utility or residential service bill dated within 180 days of the date of application. Examples of acceptable statements include, but are not limited to: electric, water, gas, internet, cable, streaming services, lawn services, and cellular telephone
[ ] Current automobile insurance policy, statement or card
[ ] Preprinted W-2 tax form from an employer, government, or financial institution for the most recent tax year
[ ] Mail or printed electronic statements from financial institutions; including checking, savings, investment accounts and credit card statements dated within 180 days of the date of application
[ ] Pre-printed paycheck or payment stub, dated within 180 days of the application date
[ ] Current Form DS2019 (for J1 students) or a document issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services </aside>

<aside> 🎓 What can you also present as proof of Texas residency if you live on campus?

[ ] ResLife housing agreement or other documentation from ResLife (email [email protected] for more information) </aside>

<aside> 🏠 What can you also present as proof of Texas residency if you live with a host family?

[ ] You can ask a host family member to complete and sign form DL-5 </aside>

Once you have gathered the original documents, you will need to do the following:
1. Complete the identification card application before arriving at your local office (This form is also available at all driver license offices).
2. Make an appointment at a driver license office. The nearest office to St. Edward’s is located at 6425 South Interstate 35, Ste. 180, Austin, TX 78744.
3. Grab a friend and a car. You’ll need a friend to take you to the test and a car to use for the test. Don’t forget the car’s proof of insurance!
4. Provide the your documentation to the license and permit specialist.
5. Take the written test and driving test! Applicants under 25 years of age are required to take a driving course, though we recommend it for everyone.
6. Provide your signature for your DL or ID.
7. Provide your thumbprints.
8. Have your picture taken.
9. Pay the application fee.
10. Once your identification card has been issued, you will receive a temporary identification card. Before leaving the driver license office, review the printed information on your temporary identification card for accuracy. If any of the information is not correct, notify the license and permit specialist. Your new card will arrive in the mail in approximately 4 – 6 weeks. To check the mailing status of your card, visit our mailing status web page.
NOTE IF YOU ARE UNDER 18 YEARS OLD: Requirements for underage individuals applying for a driver’s license are different. Visit How to Apply for a Texas Driver License as Teen for more information.

<aside> 👉 Additional resources? Have a question?

Visit the Texas Department of Public Safety website for more information.
You may use TXDPS interactive REAL ID Document Check Application to assist in preparing you for your Driver License Office Visit. Just follow the steps, and at the end, you will have a customized checklist of the documents to bring for your visit.
Email ISS at [email protected] if you have more questions.
Download the ISS brochure on how to apply for a driver’s license.

International Student Services Driver's License and Texas ID.pdf

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<aside> 👉 Click here to learn more about how to get around Austin, including to your selected Texas Department of Public Safety office.

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Disclaimer: The ISS staff will provide regulatory and practice information related to F and J status, as it stands at the time of the consult. Regulatory content is designed for SEU students, and is not intended to constitute legal advice and is not a substitute for legal counsel.

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