Texas Driving Laws for Seniors (2024)

Yes, Texas has certain driving laws that are specific to senior drivers. These laws aim to ensure road safety for both senior drivers and other road users.

In Texas, there are no specific age-related restrictions or requirements for senior drivers. Regardless of the driving age, in Texas, all drivers,  must adhere to the same traffic laws and regulations.

Elderly drivers in Texas (ages 79 and older) are required to renew their driver’s licenses in person and undergo a vision test at each renewal.

Generally, older drivers do need to retake their test. Texas does not have a mandatory written or driving test for elderly drivers during the license renewal process. However, a license examiner may request a driving test if there are concerns about a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.

Yes, family members, medical professionals, or concerned individuals can report their concerns about a senior driver’s ability to drive safely to the Texas Department of Public Safety. The department may review the report and conduct an investigation if necessary.

Texas does not impose specific restrictions on nighttime driving for senior drivers. However, it is generally advised for all drivers, including seniors, to exercise caution when driving at night due to decreased visibility.

Texas law does not mandate specific auto insurance discounts for senior drivers. However, many insurance companies offer discounts on car insurance for seniors in Texas for completing defensive driving courses or for safe driving records.

In Texas, you do not have to retake your driving test at a certain age. However, there are specific requirements for drivers license renewal at age 80 and above.

You cannot renew your Texas drivers license online if you’re 79 years or older. There is no upper driving license renewal age limit, however, the renewal procedures and intervals vary by age.

Yes, you will be asked to undergo a vision test once you complete the application for Texas drivers license renewal.

A driving test is not automatically required unless there is a specific reason to believe it’s necessary, such as a medical condition that could affect driving ability or a recent record of accidents or traffic violations. In some cases, a doctor can stop an elderly person from driving because of their health conditions, certain medications or sleep deprivation.

In Texas, you can renew your driver’s license up to two years before it expires.

There isn’t a specific age limit for a drivers license in Texas to be withdrawn, simply due to age. The decision is based on an individual’s ability to drive safely, not strictly on their age. However, as drivers age, they may face more frequent checks or tests to ensure they remain capable of driving safely.

Yes, you can obtain a driver’s license in Texas at any age over 18, including after the age of 60. There are no age restrictions for applying for a driver’s license. However, seniors do need an appointment at the DMV when applying for or renewing a driver’s license.

So, what is the new rule for senior drivers? The new policy for senior drivers in Texas includes:

• Ages 79 and Older: Drivers who are 79 years old and above must renew their driver’s licenses in person at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. Texas drivers license renewal online for seniors is not possible.
• Vision Test: At each in-person renewal, they must pass a vision test to ensure they meet the minimum visual acuity standards necessary for safe driving.
• Potential Driving Test: Depending on reports regarding a senior’s driving abilities, or if there are specific medical concerns, a DPS officer may also require a driving test for senior citizens at the time of renewal.

You will need the provide the following documents for Texas drivers license renewal:

• Proof of Identity
• Proof of Social Security Number (SSN)
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Presence
• Proof of Texas Residency
• Completed Application for Renewal
• Evidence of Texas Vehicle Registration and Insurance (if you own a vehicle)
• Fee

You are required to provide two documents proving your residency in Texas, which could include utility bills, bank statements, or a lease agreement. These documents must show your name and a Texas address.

According to the DMV, an advancing age means how the natural process of aging can affect a person’s driving abilities. Older adults may experience a decline in vision, including reduced night vision and sensitivity to glare.

Reduced hearing can affect a driver’s ability to detect sirens, horns, or other important sounds that can signal potential hazards. In addition, with age, reflexes might slow down, which can delay response times to sudden or unexpected driving situations.

The cost to renew a driver’s license in Texas varies depending on the type of license and the applicant’s age. For a standard driver’s license (Class A, B, or C) for adults, the fee is $33 for a license that is valid for eight years. For drivers 85 years of age and older, the fee is $9 for a license that is valid for two years.

Drivers under 79 years old can renew their licenses online, by mail, or in person.
Drivers 79 years old and older must renew their licenses in person at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office.