New ID Requirements for Texas Vehicle Registrations and Renewals

The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) board unanimously voted on Feb. 13 to pass new identification requirements for vehicle registrations. The new rules go into effect for initial registrations on March 5, and for registration renewals on Jan. 1, 2027. Full details are here. 

Applicants will be required to present valid, unexpired government-issued photo identification, such as a REAL ID–compliant driver’s license or ID card, a valid U.S. passport or foreign passport, or a handgun license issued by TxDPS for all vehicle registrations and renewals. Special registrations such as temporary permits, agricultural permits, and out-of-state military, allow a wider range of IDs. 

TxDMV issued revised guidance to county tax offices and vehicle dealerships about the new ID requirements in November 2025. Following a comment period and a public hearing in January, the board made changes to the rules to clarify some requirements, and the revised rule changes will be published for comment in the Texas Register on Feb. 27. 

Cornerstone League submitted a comment letter to TxDMV, detailing credit unions’ concern that the changes would impact the ability of credit unions to offer auto loans and would impact loans currently on the books. The letter requested, if the proposal was approved, a sufficient grace period for credit unions to adopt policies and procedures and train staff. The letter also requested that existing loans be grandfathered to minimize the impact on auto lenders. 

Contact Suzanne Yashewski, regulatory compliance counsel, at syashewski@cornerstoneleague.coop for questions or more information.