Moving to Texas? Here’s Your Guide to Getting a Texas License and Registering to Vote
As Election Day quickly approaches, thousands of people who have recently moved to Texas may be wondering how to register to vote in the state. Early voting starts on Monday, Oct. 21, so it’s crucial to register by the deadline of Oct. 7. But don’t stress – even for the newest Texas transplants, the process is relatively easy.
### Registering to Vote
The simplest way to ensure you’re on the voter rolls is to fill out a voter registration card. You can find the form on the Texas Secretary of State’s website or in person at your county election office. On the registration card, you’ll be asked for your Texas driver’s license or ID card number. If you don’t have your Texas ID yet, you can provide the last four digits of your Social Security number.
After filling out the form, you’ll need to print, sign, and mail it to the address listed on the SOS’s site. Remember, when you vote, you’ll need to show one of the seven approved forms of ID, such as an Election Identification Certificate.
### Getting a Texas Driver’s License
If you want to flash that Texas license at the polls, you’ll need to follow a few steps before applying for one. First, the state requires you to register your car within 30 days of moving to Texas. This process involves getting a vehicle inspection, so make sure you have your vehicle insurance card with you. After the inspection, take your insurance card, vehicle inspection report, and proof of ownership or current car registration from your previous state to the local county tax-assessor collector office.
Once your vehicle is registered, you can apply for a Texas driver’s license. State law mandates that you obtain your license within 90 days of moving to Texas. To do this, schedule an appointment with the Department of Public Safety (DPS) or go and standby for an opening at a DPS office.
### Addressing Long Wait Times
Unfortunately, depending on the DPS location you’re trying to visit, you might face long wait times for appointments. At the time this article was published, wait times for appointments at Texas DPS locations around Austin ranged from two weeks to a month. The agency cited a number of factors contributing to these delays, including the state’s population growth and staffing issues.
To help alleviate the wait times, Texas DPS recently announced they’ll be opening on select Saturdays. Standby appointments are available for those who can’t wait for a month, but there’s no guarantee on how long the wait will be.
### Quick Tip for Faster Service
If you’re looking to expedite the process of getting your Texas driver’s license, consider making an appointment at the DPS location across from the Texas Capitol in the Robert E. Johnson Legislative Office Building. This location is relatively unknown to the general public but can provide quicker service. You can make an appointment by calling 512-463-9962.
While this location may not be well-known, it offers a convenient option for those looking to get their Texas license in a timely manner. So, if you’re in a hurry to obtain your license, consider taking advantage of this hidden gem.
### Conclusion
Moving to a new state can be a challenging process, but getting your Texas license and registering to vote doesn’t have to be. By following the steps outlined above and utilizing the tips provided, you can navigate the process with ease. Remember to plan ahead, gather all necessary documents, and be prepared for potential wait times at DPS offices. With a little patience and perseverance, you’ll be ready to exercise your right to vote in Texas in no time.
