Can you be too old to drive in Texas? Here’s what the state law says
There’s an age cap on jury duty, but is there a limit for operating a vehicle?
Technically, no, but for those who are 79 years and older, you do have to take a few extra steps to renew your driver’s license.
Texas is one of the most dangerous states to drive in. Dallas and Fort Worth rank sixth and ninth, respectively, on Forbes list of most dangerous cities to drive in 2024. While there isn’t necessarily an age limit, the extra precaution for senior drivers is crucial.
Typically, an adult Texas driver’s license expires every eight years, and you can renew it from the comfort of your home.
For seniors who wish to renew their driver’s license after they turn 79, they must go in person to obtain a license with a 6-year expiration date. Then, for those who are 85, you may renew your license for a two-year expiration date, according to Texas Department of Safety.
What Texas law says
According to the Texas Department of Safety, “The Department of Public Safety prioritizes the safety of all drivers on the road, regardless of age. Our responsibility is to ensure that all licensed individuals possess the necessary physical and mental capabilities to operate a motor vehicle safely and follow traffic laws.”
There is no mandatory driving test, however depending on one’s medical history and skill evaluations, a written or road test may be issued.
How to renew your Texas license
To renew your license, the Texas Department of Public Safety requires those 79 and older to schedule an appointment on their website. When you go to your appointment, the following should be prepared:
Complete the application, available online or at the driver’s license office. (Important to note that a specialist will review this and determine if additional testing is needed).
Provide proof of U.S. citizenship (driver’s license, passport, U.S. birth certificate, to name a few) or Lawful Presence (see options here).
Proof of identity: must bring at least one primary document OR two secondary documents OR one secondary with two supporting documents (see examples here).
Provide signature and thumb prints.
Have a picture taken.
Pay the application fee which is $33 for those under 85, and $9 for those 85 and older.
Pass vision exam test: “If an applicant’s eyesight is less than 20/70 with correction or 20/40 without correction, an examination by an outside vision specialist is required,” according to Roberts and Roberts law firm.
This story was originally published August 20, 2024 at 3:58 PM.