Do you need to carry your green card at all times in Texas? Here’s what to know
In 2023, Texas was home to more than 1.3 million lawful permanent residents, also known as “green card” holders, according to U.S. Department of Homeland Security data.
The department describes lawful permanent residents as people who “are lawfully authorized to live permanently within the United States.” While having a green card does not make a person a U.S. citizen, if they have the card for at least five years, they are eligible for naturalization.
Having a green card is one thing, but keeping it on your person is essential, especially if an Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer asks for identification, a Fort Worth lawyer told the Star-Telegram earlier this year.
Here’s what to know about carrying green cards and how to replace them.
Are you legally required to carry your green card?
Yes, U.S. law requires green card holders to carry their documentation at all times.
Under the Immigration and Nationality Act section 264 (e), every person 18 years old and older shall carry the card with them at all times. If they do not carry the card, they could face fines or even jail time.
“Any alien who fails to comply with the provisions of this subsection shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall upon conviction for each offense be fined not to exceed $100 or be imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both,” the law reads.
Can you replace green cards?
Yes, but it’s a costly endeavor.
The process starts by filling out an I-90 form online or by mail and paying the fee. For online applicants, the fee is $415, while a paper filing is $465, according to the DHS.
If approved, the department will mail you a new green card.
This story was originally published April 18, 2025 at 8:30 AM.
