Start Here: It's Normal to Feel Overwhelmed
Getting your driver's license in a new country can feel confusing—but you're not alone. If you're a teen living in Texas on a visa or other legal status, the process may seem full of paperwork and unfamiliar rules. But here's the good news: once you know the steps, it's completely doable.
DriversEd.com is here to walk you through everything—from what documents to bring to how to pass your tests—so you feel confident every step of the way.
What "Lawful Presence" Really Means
To get a Texas driver's license, you need to prove lawful presence. That just means you're in the U.S. with government approval. You don't need to be a citizen or green card holder—student and exchange visas usually qualify, too.
What to Bring: Your Document Checklist
Must-Haves for Everyone
Your Passport (valid and unexpired)
Your U.S. Visa (the page in your passport with the visa stamp)
Your I-94 Form (get the most recent copy online at the CBP I-94 website)
Proof of Texas Residency (Bring Two)
You need two documents with your Texas address. These can include:
A utility bill (electricity, gas, water)
A school report card or transcript
A bank statement
Your name must appear on the document. If it's a parent's account, your name should also be listed.
Additional Documents Based on Visa Type
F-1 or M-1 students: Form I-20
J-1 exchange visitors: Form DS-2019
H-4 dependents: Bring documents for both you and the primary visa holder (usually a parent)
Understanding what to bring to Texas DPS for your license provides additional details about document requirements and preparation.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed
Step 1: Complete a Texas-Approved Drivers Ed Course
Texas requires all teens to complete an approved driver education course—regardless of citizenship. DriversEd.com offers an online course that's:
Self-paced and mobile-friendly
Approved by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
Designed to prepare you for the permit test
When you finish, you'll receive a DE-964 Certificate. You'll need this to move forward.
How long Texas teen drivers ed takes explains the complete timeline and requirements for completing your course.
Step 2: Schedule Your DMV Appointment
Visit the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website
Choose your nearest location and book a time
Bring your full document set (including your DE-964 Certificate)
Step 3: Pass the Required Tests
You'll take three tests during your appointment:
Vision Test: Quick check to make sure you can see well enough to drive
Knowledge Test: Covers Texas road signs, laws, and safety rules (your DriversEd course prepares you for this!)
Driving Test: Show you can safely operate a vehicle. Practice with a licensed adult, and review our road test preparation tips.
Key Texas Rules for Non-Citizen Teens
Keep Your Immigration Info Up to Date
Your driver's license expiration will match your lawful presence dates. If your visa gets extended, update your status with DPS to keep your license valid.
Follow Texas GDL Laws
If you're under 18, you'll follow Texas's Graduated Driver License (GDL) system. This includes:
Nighttime driving limits
Passenger restrictions
Minimum supervised driving hours
Texas teen licensing and driving laws provide complete details about GDL requirements and restrictions.
Even If You're Unsure or Nervous...
Even if you've never driven before: Our courses and practice tools start from the basics
Even if paperwork stresses you out: This guide simplifies it step by step
Even if English isn't your first language: The DPS allows language support and our lessons are designed to be clear and visual
Even if the test makes you anxious: You're not alone—deep breaths and practice go a long way
Tips to prepare for driving school offers additional strategies for overcoming test anxiety and building confidence.
Extra Support to Help You Succeed
Parent-Teen Driving Contract: Create shared expectations with your family about curfews, responsibilities, and safe driving habits. A written contract builds trust and helps prevent misunderstandings.
Helpful Blog Resources: Our blog is packed with practical advice on permits, road tests, driving laws, and more. Whether you're new to Texas or just new to driving, it's a great place to find answers and feel supported.
Explore tools, tips, and resources designed to make your driving journey smoother, safer, and more successful.
You're On Your Way
Getting your Texas driver's license as a non-U.S. citizen might seem like a big task—but with the right tools, you've got this.
At DriversEd.com, we're proud to support you through every requirement, every test, and every mile.
Drive safe. Drive smart. Drive confidently.
Understanding parent-taught vs instructor-taught drivers ed in Texas can help you and your family choose the best learning approach for your situation.
FAQs: Getting a Texas Driver's License as a Non-U.S. Citizen
What documents do I need to get a Texas driver's license as a non-U.S. citizen? You'll need a valid passport, U.S. visa, I-94 form, two proofs of Texas residency, and additional immigration documents based on your visa type (like an I-20 or DS-2019).
Can I get a Texas license if I'm in the U.S. on a student visa? Yes. As long as you have lawful presence (e.g., F-1, M-1, or J-1 status), you can apply for a Texas license by providing the correct documentation and completing driver education.
Is driver education required for non-U.S. citizen teens in Texas? Yes. All teens under 18 in Texas—regardless of immigration status—must complete a state-approved drivers ed course and receive a DE-964 certificate before applying for a permit or license.
How long is my Texas license valid if I'm not a citizen? It's valid for as long as your lawful presence is active. If your visa or status is extended, you must update your information with the DPS to keep your license valid.
Can I take the Texas driving test in another language? Texas DPS offices allow certain accommodations. While the knowledge test is offered in multiple languages, you'll need to verify with your local office for language support availability.
State driver's education requirements help you understand how Texas compares to other states if your family moves or you have questions about different state requirements.
