How to Check Your Driver’s License Status in Texas: A Quick Guide
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If you have a Texas driver’s license, it is critical to understand your license status in order to avoid fines and suspensions. This guide for Texas drivers offers the latest information on how to check driver's license status in Texas to ensure you always have a valid license.
Understanding the Importance of Knowing Your Driver’s License Status
When you check the status of a driver’s license in Texas, you not only determine overall driver license status but you can also ensure that your driving record and license eligibility are in good order. A status check also gives you the chance to renew license plates with the Texas Department of Public Safety or the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, pay potential reinstatement fees, and ensure that you are free and clear to get behind the wheel.
Failing to pay attention to license status can lead to severe fines and even loss of a driver’s license.
Understanding the Consequences of License Suspension
A suspended license in Texas can result from moving violations, vandalism, drug or stealing offenses, driving without insurance, and refusing to take a breath test, among other issues. To get a license reinstated following a suspension, drivers must pay reinstatement fees and complete compliance documentation. The Texas Driver License Enforcement Actions can also include ignition interlock devices and administrative hearings, depending on the infraction. In other words, you do not want to have a suspended driver’s license in Texas!
Benefits of Keeping Your License Status Updated
When you check your Texas driver’s license status and know where you stand, then you can ensure that you are in compliance with the law and prevent expensive tickets or suspensions. A Texas driving license also offers a valid form of identification, not to mention the freedom of the open road.
How To Check Your Driver’s Status Online in Texas
An online driver’s license status check in Texas is easier than ever, thanks to the state’s online license eligibility service. The Texas Department of Public Safety Driver License Division License Eligibility services gives drivers the ability to check driver's license status and pay any reinstatement fees online. To log in, you simply enter your driver's license or ID number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security Number.
Alternative Methods To Check Your License Status in Texas
There are other options to check Texas driver's license status, including phone, in-person, and mail.
Phone Inquiry Options With the Texas DPS
You can call the Texas Department of Public Safety regarding your driving eligibility status at 512-424-2600. The department’s customer service hours are Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., excluding holidays.
In-Person Visits: What To Bring to the DMV
If you prefer an in-person visit, it pays to be prepared. When you visit a DMV office, bring with you your current driver’s license, identification card, or a driver’s license application, proof of residency and identity, your Social Security number, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration.
Mail-In Requests: How They Work and Expected Processing Times
You can also contact the Texas Department of Public Safety by mail at:
Texas Department of Public Safety
Central Cash Receiving
P.O. Box 15999
Austin, TX 78761-5999
If you are paying reinstatement fees, you should submit a copy of your suspension notice along with your name, date of birth, and driver's license number. If you submit payment by mail, you must allow 21 business days for processing, which is why many drivers prefer to use the online option.
Common License Status Codes and What They Mean
The Texas Department of Public Safety shares a comprehensive list of license restriction codes, including the following:
- A: Corrective lenses required
- B: A licensed driver age 21 or older must be in the front seat
- C: Daytime driving only
- D: Maximum speed limit of 45 miles per hour allowed
- K: Intrastate only
- V: Medical variance documents required
- P2: To/from work/school
- P39: Ignition interlock required
If you have one of these status codes on your license, make sure you are in compliance every time you drive.
How To Reinstate a Suspended or Revoked License in Texas
Reinstatement procedures vary slightly based on the infraction. Some include fines and required compliance documentation and some only require document completion. To reinstate a suspended or revoked license in Texas, visit the Department of Public Safety’s reinstatement page and submit fines and documents online, by mail, or in person.
Staying Proactive About License Validity
The more proactive you are about driver’s license validity, the less likely you are to get in a bad situation where you are driving with an expired or suspended license. If you review your driver’s license information and insurance annually, you should be in good shape with the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Compare Car Insurance Rates Tailored to Your Driving Record
Car insurance in Texas is a must. You can compare auto insurance rates and options that are customized to your needs and driver records online at EverQuote.