2. Registering For License
- Jake Silver
- Dec 7, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 3
Establishing intent to make Texas your primary residence is a crucial aspect of the residency process. Obtaining a Texas driver's license or state ID card, and registering to vote in the state (you do this at the DMV), are key steps in demonstrating your commitment to becoming a Texas resident and will strengthen your position in the process.
Please Note:
If you can avoid registering before / waiting for your appointment by doing a walk-in. Simple walk into a DPS with your documents (will need to wait till they can see you, typically an hr) and get your license. The capital building in Austin takes people with a very short wait.
We recommend waiting until you are 18 to acquire your license because you can avoid taking a minor driver's education exam.
While not required, we recommend acquiring your license within 90 days of beginning your LLC. There may not be appointments available for a few months, and this is okay. We will submit it approximately one year after the formation of your LLC. You may also use a dorm address for the license or ID.
If you have a car or planning to have one in Texas, please register it in Texas.
Step-by-Step Guide
Go to DPS Online Appointment Scheduler (https://public.txdpsscheduler.com/)
Select the language
Log On using your personal information
Click "New Appointment"
Under "Driver License Services" select "Apply for First Time Texas DL/Permit" or Under "Identification Card Services" select "Apply for First Time Texas ID"
If you lack an out-of-state license (i.e. you don't have any license), under "Identification Card Services" select "Apply for First Time Texas ID"
Enter Contact and Zip Info and click "Next"
Click DPS location, date, and time
There may not be appointments for many months
As long as we obtain the license or ID card prior to when we submit your residency info (which is 1 year after that LLC was formed), it is okay
Review your Contact and Zip Info
Confirm the appointment
Click "Print" and Save the confirmation as a PDF
Upload a PDF of your schedule confirmation into your InstateMe portal
Add an event to your personal calendar for when the appointment is scheduled
Add an event to your personal calendar 1 month prior to your appointment, so you have adequate time to gather the necessary documentation
Update the "Status" column within your Checklist
Gather the required documents for your appointment (read this section carefully)
Take a quick read-through of the general requirements here
If you lack "Texas Vehicle Registration and Proof of Insurance," that is okay. You will just mark that down later on your application. If you need to acquire it, please use the guide here.
For any specific queries you may have, please feel free to reach out to the DPS Driver's License support team. You can contact them by phone at (512) 424-2600 for direct assistance or use this link for online inquiries. They will be happy to help you with your concerns.
Use this DPS Tool to have a customized checklist of the documents to bring for your visit
If the link above isn't working, navigate here and click "REAL ID Document Check Application"
If neither of the two links above work, please Google "How to Apply for a Texas Driver License," click the webpage that populates, and click "REAL ID Document Check Application (see screenshot at the bottom of this guide)
Confirm you have all the documents by filling out this manual PDF Checklist
Remember, only legit originals are allowed - photocopies will not be accepted
Remember, all documents providing Texas Residency presented must contain the individual's name and Texas residential address (including apt number), and must be printed
If you are struggling to find proof of Texas Residency, you may want to first register to vote as this certificate is acceptable evidence
Bank letters are not accepted. Only printed bank statements.
When your appointment date approaches, read the guide here
