Quick Takeaways
- New Texas residents must apply for a Texas license within 90 days of establishing residency through employment, domicile, school enrollment, or voter registration
- Texas auto insurance must be obtained within 30 days of residency to register your vehicle
- Visitors age 16+ may drive with a valid out-of-state or foreign license while remaining nonresidents (international visitors up to 90 days)
- REAL ID became required for TSA domestic flights on May 7, 2025; standard licenses still allow driving in Texas
- Out-of-state license transfer: If your license is valid and non-expired (within 2 years), you typically skip written and road tests—only a vision test required
- Driving unlicensed in Texas is a criminal offense: fines up to $500, possible jail time, and vehicle impound
Do I Need a Driver’s License in Houston?
What the Law Requires and Who It Applies To
If you live in Houston or anywhere in Texas, you must drive with a Texas driver’s license. Visitors can drive with a valid home-country or out-of-state license while they remain nonresidents.
New residents must obtain a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) license within 90 days of establishing residency. The clock starts when you:
- Accept employment or engage in a trade, profession, or occupation in Texas
- Enroll your children in a Texas public school
- Register to vote in Texas
- Live in Texas for more than 90 consecutive days
Why Having the Right License Matters
Being properly licensed protects you from criminal charges, significant fines, jail time, and vehicle impound. It also makes everyday tasks smoother—renting cars, verifying ID, completing vehicle registration, and obtaining insurance.
Finhabits helps you budget the time and costs so you stay on track financially after you’re licensed. Think of licensing as the first step toward responsible, stress-free driving in Houston.
Step-by-Step: Getting Licensed in Houston
Documents Checklist
Gather these documents before visiting the Texas DPS office:
- Proof of identity: Valid U.S. passport, certified U.S. birth certificate, or previous valid driver’s license
- Proof of Social Security number: Social Security card, W-2 form with full SSN, or 1099 form
- Two proofs of Texas residential address: Utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, Texas voter registration card, or vehicle registration (dated within past 90 days)
- Legal presence documents: If not a U.S. citizen, bring valid visa, green card, or Employment Authorization Document
- Out-of-state license to surrender: You must surrender your current license (unless lost or stolen)
- Payment method: $33 for Class C license (ages 18-84), $16 for under 18, $9 for over 84
The Process
- Prepare: Study the Texas Driver Handbook; decide whether you want a REAL ID (required for domestic flights since May 7, 2025) or standard license
- Complete ITD: All first-time Texas license applicants must complete the free Impact Texas Driver (ITD) safety course online. If you’re 18-24, you also need a 6-hour Adult Driver Education course.
- Gather documents: Identity proof, SSN proof, and two Texas residency proofs dated within the past 90 days
- Schedule appointment: Book online through the Texas DPS Scheduler—Houston has multiple offices including Gessner, Dacoma, South Houston, and Spring
- Visit office: Bring all documents, surrender your out-of-state license, take a vision test
- Pay fees: $33 for a Class C license (ages 18-84)
- Receive temporary license: Your paper license is valid immediately; permanent card arrives by mail within 2-3 weeks
Houston DPS Office Locations
Houston has several Texas DPS offices to serve the metro area:
- Gessner Mega Center: 12220 South Gessner Road
- Dacoma: 9206 Dacoma Street
- South Houston: 10503 Grant Road
- Spring: 505 Sawdust Road
- Rosenberg: 28710 Southwest Freeway
Pro tip: The Gessner Mega Center typically has better appointment availability and shorter wait times due to its larger size.
Special Situations
Transferring an Out-of-State License
If you have a valid, unexpired driver’s license from another U.S. state, U.S. territory, or Canada, you must surrender it but are exempt from the knowledge and skills exams. You’ll only need to pass a vision test.
If your out-of-state license expired more than 2 years ago, you’ll need to take both the written knowledge test and the driving skills test.
International Licenses (Reciprocity Countries)
Texas has license reciprocity agreements with:
- France
- Germany
- South Korea
- Taiwan
- United Arab Emirates
If you have a valid, unexpired license from one of these countries, you may be exempt from the knowledge and skills exams. However, you must choose: either surrender your foreign license to receive a Texas license, or keep your foreign license and take the full testing.
Licenses from other countries not in English or Spanish must be accompanied by a certified translation.
Students and Military Personnel
Non-resident students attending a Texas university and active-duty military personnel stationed in Texas are not required to obtain a Texas license. However, you must carry valid documentation of your status along with your home-state or country license.
Undocumented Residents
Texas does not issue driver’s licenses to individuals who cannot prove lawful presence in the United States. This applies to standard licenses and REAL ID credentials.
Texas vs. Florida: Key Differences
| Requirement | Texas (Houston) | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Time to get license | 90 days | 30 days |
| Insurance system | At-fault (tort) | No-fault (PIP required) |
| Minimum liability | 30/60/25 | 10/10 PIP/PDL (no BIL required) |
| License cost (adult) | $33 | $48 + $6.25 fee |
| License validity | 8 years | 8 years |
| ITD/Safety course | Required for all first-time applicants | Not required |
Costs and Fees
| License Type | DPS Fee | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Class C (ages 18-84) | $33 | 8 years |
| Under 18 | $16 | Until 18th birthday |
| Over 84 | $9 | 2 years |
| Duplicate/replacement | $11 | Same expiration |
| ID Card only | $16 | 6 years |
Fees as of 2025. Additional fees may apply for commercial licenses or endorsements.
Penalties for Driving Without a License
Texas takes unlicensed driving seriously. Here are the potential consequences:
| Offense | Classification | Maximum Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| First offense (no license) | Class C Misdemeanor | $200 fine |
| Second offense (within 12 months) | Class C Misdemeanor | $25-$200 fine |
| Third offense (within 12 months) | Class B Misdemeanor | $25-$500 fine, 72 hours to 6 months jail |
| Driving with suspended license | Class C-B Misdemeanor | Up to $2,000 fine, 6 months jail |
| Causing accident while unlicensed/uninsured | Class A Misdemeanor | $4,000 fine, 1 year jail |
Note: Vehicle impound is also possible. If your license was suspended due to DUI, penalties are significantly higher.
Finhabits Tips: Stay Organized & Financially Ready
- Use a simple budget for license fees ($33+), registration costs ($50.75+ plus county fees), and insurance premiums
- Set calendar reminders: Day 30 (insurance/registration deadline), Day 80 (license deadline buffer)
- After you’re licensed, review car insurance options and ongoing driving costs so you’re financially prepared
- Read our Texas-focused resources to understand coverage basics, state requirements, and how to switch policies without surprises
Helpful Next Reads
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Texas license to drive if I’m visiting Houston?
No. Visitors age 16 and over can drive with a valid out-of-state or foreign license while remaining nonresidents. International visitors can legally drive for up to 90 days after entering the U.S. If you become a Texas resident (through employment, school enrollment, etc.), you must apply for a Texas license within 90 days.
What counts as establishing residency for licensing?
Common triggers include: accepting employment in Texas, enrolling children in Texas public schools, registering to vote in Texas, or living in Texas for more than 90 consecutive days. Once any applies, the 90-day application period begins.
Is an International Driving Permit required in Texas?
No. An IDP is a translation document and must be carried with your valid foreign license. It is not a standalone license and doesn’t replace your original credential. Texas accepts most foreign licenses for visitors; the IDP simply helps if your license isn’t in English or Spanish.
What happens if I drive unlicensed in Texas?
Driving without a valid license in Texas is a criminal offense. First offense carries a maximum $200 fine. Second offense within 12 months carries the same penalty range. Third offense can result in $25-$500 fine and 72 hours to 6 months jail. If you cause an accident while unlicensed and uninsured, you face up to $4,000 fine and 1 year in jail.
Can I renew my Texas license online?
Many drivers can renew online if they meet eligibility criteria. Check your status through the Texas DPS Online Services portal. Online renewal is typically available if your license isn’t suspended, you don’t need a new photo, and you’ve renewed in person at least once in the last 12 years.
How does Finhabits help once I’m licensed?
Finhabits explains complex rules in clear English and Spanish, helping you plan the ongoing costs of driving—fuel, parking, renewals, insurance—and explore protection options without confusing legalese or hidden fees.
Glossary: Key Terms Explained
- Resident: Someone who makes Texas their home through employment, housing, civic activities, or extended stay; triggers the 90-day licensing rule
- REAL ID: A federally compliant ID required for TSA domestic flights and certain federal facilities since May 7, 2025; marked with gold star
- Class C License: Standard Texas driver’s license for operating non-commercial vehicles under 26,000 lbs
- International Driving Permit (IDP): A translation of a foreign license issued by your home country; not valid alone and must be carried with the original license
- Impact Texas Driver (ITD): Free mandatory online safety course about distracted driving required before taking the driving test
- Knowledge Test: Multiple-choice exam covering Texas traffic laws and safe driving; offered in multiple languages including Spanish
- Driving Skills Test: Behind-the-wheel road test demonstrating vehicle control, traffic navigation, and safety procedures
- Texas DPS: Texas Department of Public Safety—the state agency managing driver licensing, vehicle inspection, and law enforcement
- TxDMV: Texas Department of Motor Vehicles—handles vehicle titles, registration, and motor vehicle services (separate from DPS)
- 30/60/25: Texas minimum liability insurance limits—$30,000 per person bodily injury, $60,000 per accident bodily injury, $25,000 property damage
Official Resources & Citations
Take Action: Get Licensed, Stay Protected, Plan Smart
If you’ve moved to Houston, get your Texas license within 90 days of establishing residency. Visitors can use valid home licenses, students and military personnel have narrow exceptions, and the process is straightforward if you prepare your documents.
Finhabits helps you move from “Can I drive here?” to “I’m fully set up and financially ready.” Plan your driving budget, understand protection options, and keep your documents organized—without guesswork or expensive mistakes.
