New Texas Driver's License Change: Who It Affects

One of the things most people have on their person at any given time is their ID. For most, that ID is their driver's license. Well, get ready; the design of the Texas driver's license is changing again.

However, it may not affect your driver's license.

Picture this: a deaf driver is pulled over by law enforcement. While that driver could try to communicate with the officer, what if their driver's license could do the communicating?

What Is the Texas Driving with Disabilities Program?

That is the change coming to your Texas driver's license. This new program through the Texas Department of Public Safety could save lives. The new program in question is called the Texas Driving with Disabilities Program. This program will allow customers to have their disability put on their Texas driver's license. This will help those with disabilities or illnesses communicate with law enforcement with their license.

For instance, if a Texas driver is deaf, their license could say "deaf or hard of hearing." Others will state "communication impediment."

Texas Department of Public Safety

For those who have disabilities, or have family who have a disability, this new addition brings some relief knowing that this small box could prevent an escalation with law enforcement because of a communication issue.

Which Disabilities Qualify for the Program?

Texas Department of Public Safety

Other disabilities that are considered for this change include:

Autism Spectrum Disorder
Brain Injury
Cerebral Palsy
Down Syndrome
Mild Intellectual Disability
Parkinson’s Disease
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Speech and Language Disorders (mutism, stuttering, speech delay, aphasia, and spasmodic dysphonia)

You can see the full list of disabilities on the DPS website.

Is This Change Mandatory for Texas Drivers?

This is not a mandatory change. If you have a disability, you can voluntarily have this added to your license. If you have any of these conditions, you can apply to have them placed on your driver's license or state-issued ID.

How to Apply for the Disability Indicator on Your Texas License

If you or someone you know would like to participate in this program, you will need to schedule an appointment with your local driver's license office. You will need to bring in a Physician/Psychiatrist's Statement Form DL-101. The form must be signed by a healthcare provider. You will also need to bring in the other documentation required to obtain a driver's license.

This is just a small change on a card we carry every day. For those who need the additional messaging, it could save their life, especially if they are in a situation where they cannot communicate.