An Individual Can Legally Have Both A Texas

An individual can legally have both a Texas driver’s license and a Texas identification card under certain circumstances, a topic that often creates confusion for newcomers, long‑time residents, and anyone navigating the state’s identification system. Understanding the rules set by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) helps clarify when possessing both documents is permissible, what limitations apply, and how to manage them without violating state law. This article explores the legal basis, practical implications, and step‑by‑step guidance for anyone wondering whether they can hold both a Texas driver’s license and an ID card at the same time.

What the Texas DPS Says About Multiple Credentials

The Texas DPS issues two primary forms of state‑issued identification: the driver license (DL) and the identification card (ID). Both serve as proof of identity, age, and residency, but they are intended for different purposes. A driver license grants the holder the legal authority to operate a motor vehicle, while an identification card provides the same personal data without driving privileges.

According to the Texas Transportation Code, Chapter 521, and the DPS administrative rules found in Title 37, Part 1, Chapter 15 of the Texas Administrative Code, a person may not hold more than one driver license or more than one identification card issued by the state of Texas at any given time. However, the code does not explicitly prohibit holding one driver license and one identification card simultaneously, provided that each document serves a distinct function and the holder meets the eligibility requirements for both.

In practice, the DPS allows an individual to possess both a driver license and an ID card only when the ID card is issued for a specific, limited purpose—such as a disability identification card, a veteran’s designation, or a temporary identification card issued while a driver license is being renewed, replaced, or upgraded. Holding a standard driver license alongside a standard identification card for everyday use is generally not permitted because the two documents would duplicate the same core information and could facilitate fraud.

When Can You Legally Have Both?

1. Disability Identification Card

Texans with a qualifying disability may apply for a Texas Disability Identification Card in addition to a regular driver license. The disability card provides parking privileges and access to certain services but does not confer driving authority. Because it serves a distinct purpose, the DPS permits holders to keep both documents.

2. Veteran Designation on an ID Card

Veterans who wish to showcase their service without carrying a driver license can obtain a Veteran’s Identification Card. If they also hold a valid driver license for driving purposes, they may retain both cards. The veteran ID includes a special emblem and is used primarily for verification of veteran status at federal facilities, hospitals, and businesses offering discounts.

3. Temporary or Replacement Situations

When a driver license is lost, stolen, or undergoing renewal, the DPS may issue a temporary paper receipt or a limited‑term identification card that allows the holder to prove identity while waiting for the permanent driver license to arrive. During this interim period, it is lawful to present both the temporary ID and the expired (or soon‑to‑expire) driver license as proof of identity, though the temporary document alone is sufficient for most transactions.

4. Commercial Driver License (CDL) and Non‑Commercial IDA holder of a Commercial Driver License may also apply for a standard identification card if they need proof of identity for non‑driving activities (e.g., banking, air travel) while keeping the CDL for professional driving. The DPS treats the CDL as a driver license, so the same rule applies: one driver license (commercial or non‑commercial) plus one identification card is allowed when the ID card serves a separate, legitimate purpose.

Why the Restriction Exists

The primary rationale behind limiting multiple credentials is to prevent identity fraud and ensure that each person has a single, authoritative record in the DPS database. If individuals could hold multiple, fully equivalent driver licenses or ID cards, it would become easier to:

• Create false identities for illicit activities.
• Evade traffic violations or legal obligations tied to a specific license number.
• Obtain duplicate benefits or privileges (e.g., voting, age‑restricted purchases) under different numbers.

By allowing only one driver license and one identification card—except for specially designated cards—the DPS maintains a cleaner, more reliable database while still accommodating legitimate needs for supplemental identification.

Practical Steps to Obtain Both Documents

If you believe you qualify for a secondary identification card (disability, veteran, or temporary), follow these steps to apply legally:

1. Verify Eligibility
   *Disability Card

2. Gather Required Documentation

   • Proof of identity (birth certificate, passport, or current driver license).
   • Proof of Texas residency (utility bill, lease agreement, or voter registration card).
   • For a disability ID: a signed statement from a licensed physician or the Social Security Administration confirming the qualifying condition.
   • For a veteran ID: DD Form 214 or other official discharge paperwork showing honorable service. - For a temporary/replacement ID: the police report (if stolen) or the renewal notice from DPS.

3. Complete the Application

   • Fill out the appropriate form (DL‑14A for a standard ID, DL‑14V for a veteran ID, or DL‑14D for a disability ID) either online via the Texas DPS portal or in person at a driver license office.
   • Indicate that you already hold a valid driver license and are requesting a secondary identification card.

4. Submit and Pay Fees

   • Submit the completed form together with the supporting documents.
   • Pay the applicable fee (standard ID: $16; veteran ID: $6; disability ID: $16; temporary paper receipt: no fee, but a limited‑term card may incur a small charge).
   • If applying online, you can upload scanned documents and pay with a credit/debit card; in‑office applicants may pay by cash, check, or card.

5. Await Processing

   • Standard processing time is typically 2–3 weeks for mailed cards.
   • Temporary paper receipts are issued immediately at the office and are valid for up to 60 days or until the permanent card arrives.
   • You may check the status of your application online using your DPS customer number.

6. Receive and Verify Your Secondary ID

   • Once the card arrives, verify that all personal information is correct and that the special emblem (disability, veteran, or temporary) is present.
   • Store the new identification card separately from your driver license to avoid confusion, but keep both readily accessible when you need to prove identity for non‑driving purposes.

Conclusion

Texas law permits residents to hold one driver license and one additional identification card when the latter serves a distinct, legitimate function—such as confirming disability status, veteran status, or providing a temporary proof of identity during licensure transitions. By adhering to the eligibility criteria, assembling the proper documentation, and following the DPS application steps, you can lawfully obtain and maintain both credentials without compromising the integrity of the state’s identification system. This balanced approach safeguards against fraud while accommodating the genuine needs of Texans who require supplemental identification for everyday activities.

Understanding Renewal and Updates

Maintaining your secondary ID requires attention, just like your driver’s license. The renewal process mirrors the initial application, though often streamlined. For standard IDs, renewal is typically tied to your driver’s license renewal cycle. The DPS will send a renewal notice, and you can follow the same steps outlined above, submitting updated documentation only if your information has changed. Veteran and disability IDs may have specific renewal requirements based on the underlying qualifying condition; it’s prudent to check the DPS website for the most current guidelines.

Updating information on your secondary ID – such as a name change due to marriage or a new address – necessitates a visit to a driver license office. You’ll need to present official documentation verifying the change (marriage certificate, utility bill, etc.) and complete a new application form, potentially with an updated fee depending on the nature of the change. Failing to keep your information current can invalidate the ID and render it unusable for its intended purpose.

Lost or Stolen Secondary IDs

If your secondary ID is lost or stolen, prompt action is crucial. While a temporary paper receipt can be issued, it’s best to file a police report, especially if theft is suspected. This report will be required when applying for a replacement ID. The replacement process is similar to applying for a temporary ID – you’ll need to complete the appropriate form (DL-14A, DL-14V, or DL-14D), submit the police report (if applicable), and pay the replacement fee. The DPS prioritizes replacing lost or stolen IDs to minimize potential misuse.

Conclusion

Texas law permits residents to hold one driver license and one additional identification card when the latter serves a distinct, legitimate function—such as confirming disability status, veteran status, or providing a temporary proof of identity during licensure transitions. By adhering to the eligibility criteria, assembling the proper documentation, and following the DPS application steps, you can lawfully obtain and maintain both credentials without compromising the integrity of the state’s identification system. This balanced approach safeguards against fraud while accommodating the genuine needs of Texans who require supplemental identification for everyday activities.