Before you know it, your son or daughter is ready to get their state ID- either for driving, or identification.
They’re ready, but are you? It can be overwhelming figuring out and sorting out what is needed. You probably have a ton of questions, but you’re not alone. Millions of parents have been in the same boat or are currently in the same boat as you.
How young can you be to get a Texas ID is probably the first question you have. The answer would be what type of ID card are you looking for. Is it an ID card, a permit, or a driver’s license? Let’s dive in and find out.
What is a Texas ID card?
Let’s start with getting just a regular Texas ID.
The Texas ID card looks very similar to a driver’s license and provides the same information a driver’s license has, including a photo. It is used solely for identification purposes, such as traveling or showing ID at various places. It’s used by those who can’t drive or choose not to.
Your child can use them for proof of age, to gain access to certain age-restricted places, or for public assistance needs. The state ID cards are provided by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to any lawful resident. There are certain restrictions for non-residents and foreign students.
Most ID cards are available to youths. Another benefit of IDs is they tend to costs less than a driver’s license and are valid longer than a driver’s license.
What Are the Requirements for a Texas ID Card?
A young person looking to get a texas ID must be a Texas resident for at least 30 days, except for military personnel dependents. There is no minimum age restriction on IDs for young people in Texas.
Many parents choose to purchase IDs for their young children for school and emergencies. In case of an emergency, the child has a photo ID card that will identify them, along with other pertinent information to help authorities locate their parents or address.
Texas does have a restriction you need to be aware of before applying for a new ID. If you hold a driver’s license in another state, you will not be able to apply for a Texas ID card unless you forfeit the license in the other state. It is illegal in Texas to hold both a driver’s license and a state ID card.
How Does a Young Person Get a Texas ID Card?
Before you or your child head out to get an ID card be sure you have these necessary documents.
To prove citizenship, you must show a U.S. birth certificate, a U.S. passport, or a Certificate of Citizenship. If you’re a non-U.S. resident, you will need a permanent resident card and a foreign passport with an I-94 stamp or Form I-327.
Other documents needed are a social security card, if you or your child doesn’t have one, you can apply for one at the Social Security Administration. You or your child will also need proof of being a Texas resident. For your child that could be a birth certificate or school documents. For adults, mortgage statements, Texas voter ID, or a health insurance card.
All documents must be originals or certified copies. Photocopies or laminated documents are not acceptable. If your name has changed, you will have to provide proof of your legal name change.
Last, but not least, don’t forget to bring payment for the ID. Please don’t assume cash or checks are accepted. Nowadays, it’s good to bring cash, a check, or a debit or credit card to prevent delays.
Where Do I Go To Get a Texas ID?
Simply call or visit your local driver’s license or Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) to find out where you need to go to get a Texas TD card. Unlike some states, Texas does not allow residents to get an ID online.
However, some DMV offices will allow you to complete the application online and virtually “stand in line” before actually visiting the office.
Once you’re at the DMV office, the process is pretty simple. Provide the clerk with the necessary documents and application. They will help you sort everything out and collect the fee. You will be asked for a thumbprint and your photo will be taken.
You will be provided a temporary document to carry with you as proof until your ID card arrives by mail four to six weeks later.
What if You Need To Renew or Replace My Texas ID?
Let’s face it – young people lose things way too easily. Even some of us adults have trouble keeping track of things important to us. If you or your child loses the ID card, don’t panic. Simply return to the DMV office.
Yes, you’ll have to go through the entire process again – but it’s better than going to the dentist, right? Also, Texas allows certain applicants to renew or replace their lost ID card online or over the phone. If it’s time to renew your ID card, be sure to update any information that may have changed.
How Much Does a Texas ID Cost?
A Texas ID card for youth will cost $16. Your child can get a standard card or a limited-term ID card, whichever fits their situation.
Are Texas ID Cards Acceptable Everywhere?
Yes! Texas ID cards are real and acceptable everywhere. The ID card meets the security standards put in place by the Federal Government (Federal REAL ID Act of 2005).
This means the state ID is Real ID compliant and can be used for any purpose outlined in the Real ID Act, including for travel purposes, including traveling abroad, entering nuclear power plants, entering federal buildings, military bases, cashing checks, and legal documents.
How Does One Obtain a Texas Learners Permit After Receiving The Texas ID?
For young people who are obtaining a Texas ID in preparation for their Learners Permit, here are some guidelines to follow:
- Must be a Texas resident
- Must be between 15 and 18 years old
- Provide the necessary documents – Texas ID card, Social Security Card, proof of citizenship, birth certificate
- Complete the driver’s education program
- Pass the preliminary tests, including a knowledge exam and a vision test.
Sources
- https://www.dmv.com/tx/texas/apply-id-card?tg1=DVA&tg7=dmv_&tg9=dmv.com&utm_content=dmv.com&utm_medium=dmv_&utm_source=dmv.com&utm_term=organic_dmv&utm_campaign=organic_dmv
- https://www.ncsl.org/research/transportation/real-id-act-of-2005.aspx
- https://www.dmv.com/apply-id-card?tg1=DVA&tg7=dmv_&tg9=dmv.com&utm_content=dmv.com&utm_medium=dmv_&utm_source=dmv.com&utm_term=organic_dmv&utm_campaign=organic_dmv
