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Getting a REAL ID in Texas

The steps in plain English. Each one links to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) page it came from. Last checked Nov 15, 2026.

  1. Look for a star in the upper right corner of your Texas license or ID; if it is there you already have a REAL ID.

    Source: texas.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  2. If there is no star, apply in person at a DPS office, or renew or replace online if you are eligible.

    Source: texas.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  3. Bring an original or certified birth certificate or an unexpired U.S. passport book or card, plus your Social Security card.

    Source: texas.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  4. If your name has changed, bring the legal documents that show the change from your birth name.

    Source: texas.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  5. Renewing or replacing a current Texas card automatically produces a REAL ID compliant one.

    Source: texas.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

Check before you go: requirements and fees change, and some depend on your age or situation. The official page is the final word.

Related facts

REAL ID basics
A Texas card with a star in the upper right corner is REAL ID compliant. All new, renewed and replacement Texas licenses and IDs are issued compliant. Since May 7, 2025 a REAL ID or other federally accepted ID is needed to board domestic flights and enter secure federal buildings.Source: texas.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
Cards without a star
Still valid for driving, banking and voting in Texas until they expire, but not for federal purposes.Source: texas.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

More in the Texas guide

Learner licenseSteps and official links →First licenseSteps and official links →RenewalSteps and official links →Moving to TexasSteps and official links →Lost or replacement licenseSteps and official links →

Official Texas links

Online renewaltexas.gov ↗REAL IDtexas.gov ↗Permit and first licensetexas.gov ↗New residentstxdmv.gov ↗Replace a licensetexas.gov ↗Feestexas.gov ↗Driver licenses on texas.govtexas.gov ↗

These links open official government websites. USA DMV is an independent study site and is not affiliated with any of them.

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Not a government website. USA DMV (usadmv.app) is an independent study resource. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by or operated by any state DMV, the Texas Department of Public Safety or any other government agency. Practice questions are written to reflect official driver handbooks but are not the official test questions. Always confirm current requirements with your state’s licensing agency.