Attention Texas Drivers: Is Your Drivers License Still Legal?

UPDATE: For All Texans

Starting May 31, 2025 at 7 PM-CT, the Texas Department of Public Safety will permanently retire the old online driver license renewal system. If you're planning to renew online, you must now use the new Texas by Texas (TxT) platform. Don’t wait, create your account and check your eligibility now at Texas.gov/TxT.

Is Your Texas Driver’s License Still Legal Under New 2025 Rules?

Beginning May 7, 2025, major updates to Texas driver’s licenses went into effect. If you haven’t renewed your license recently, or haven’t noticed the gold star in the upper right-hand corner, you could be out of compliance under the new REAL ID requirements.

What Is the Texas Drivers License REAL ID?

Following federal law passed after 9/11, all Texas driver’s licenses issued for official identification must meet REAL ID Act standards. That means your license needs to display a gold star to be considered valid for certain federal uses, including:

• Boarding domestic flights
• Entering federal buildings
• Accessing military bases

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What Documents Do You Need to Update Your License?

To renew or update your license with REAL ID compliance, you must bring original or certified versions of the following documents:

• A birth certificate or an unexpired U.S. passport
• Your actual Social Security card
• Current Texas vehicle registration (if you own a vehicle)
• Proof of auto insurance (if you own a vehicle)
• Legal documents showing any name changes from your birth name

Having all required documents ready can save you time and stress at your DPS visit.

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It Is Time for Me to Renew at That Age

Speaking of renewals, yep, it’s my turn. I’m hitting that magic milestone in mid-June and turning 65 years old. My driver’s license is expiring, and while I’ve always renewed it online in the past, I now have to visit the DPS office in person to update my photo and meet the new REAL ID requirements.

There’s no written or driving test required at this time, but just like everyone else, I have to follow the updated checklist to make sure I’m in compliance. So if you’re like me and getting close to a renewal year, or turning 65, don’t wait until the last minute.

Online and In-Person Renewal Options

The Texas DPS offers several options to update your license:

• Renew online, by phone, or by mail if eligible
• Schedule an in-person appointment if required
• Use the DPS interactive checklist to verify what you need

Same-day appointments may be available in select locations, but most services are now by appointment only.

Final Reminder: Check the Star

Your Texas driver’s license should now have a gold star in the top-right corner. If not, it’s time to check your status and make sure you're ready for the May 5 deadline, just like I’m doing right now.