In Texas, drivers aged 79 and older face specific requirements for license renewal aimed at ensuring road safety. Here’s a breakdown of the key rules and procedures:
Renewal Frequency and Methods
- Ages 79–84: Must renew in person every 6 years.
- Age 85+: Must renew in person every 2 years.
- Online, mail, or phone renewals are not permitted for seniors 79 and older.
Testing Requirements
- Vision test: Mandatory for all renewals starting at age 79. If vision falls below 20/70 (corrected) or 20/40 (uncorrected), an outside specialist evaluation is required.
- Additional tests: Written or road tests may be required if flagged by Texas DPS during renewal.
Fees
- Ages 79–84: $25 renewal fee.
- Age 85+: $9 renewal fee.
Documentation
- Proof of identity, Social Security Number, Texas residency, and U.S. citizenship or lawful presence.
- REAL ID compliance is required by May 7, 2025, for domestic air travel.
Special Considerations
- Grace period: No grace period for expired licenses; driving with an expired license risks fines up to $2007.
- Medical conditions: Drivers with physical or mental conditions affecting driving ability may face additional testing.
Comparison of Renewal Rules
| Age Group | Renewal Frequency | Renewal Method | Vision Test | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 79–84 | Every 6 years | In-person only | Required | $25 |
| 85+ | Every 2 years | In-person only | Required | $9 |
Seniors should also note the upcoming REAL ID deadline (May 7, 2025) for air travel, requiring a gold-starred license or alternative federal ID. For renewals, appointments at DPS offices are recommended to reduce wait times.
Sources:
- https://www.robertslawfirm.com/texas-restrictions-senior-drivers/
- https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/renew-your-texas-dl-cdl-motorcycle-license-or-id
- https://www.texascarinsurance.com/driving-laws-for-seniors/
- https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/real-id-act/
