Your Texas Driver’s License Could be Changing Following Recent Updates

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has announced that all state-issued driver's license cards may feature an updated appearance, as long as they are under the Texas Driving with Disability Program.

Texas Drivers with Disabilities License Changes

The purpose of changing the way driver's licenses look for those under the disability program is to improve communication between the driver and law enforcement. By streamlining the way in which officers can identify if a driver has certain disabilities and health conditions, they can better facilitate interactions during traffic stops.

What's Changing on My Texas License?

Previously, those who voluntarily participated in the Texas Driving with Disability Program had the words "Communication Impediment" on their driver's licenses. Because this is such a broad statement, DPS has decided to narrow things down.

Now, there are two options that better indicate driver conditions. Along with "Communication Impediment," participants can instead choose to have the words "Deaf/Hard of Hearing" placed on their licenses.

What Counts as Communication Impediments?

In Texas, examples that allow the Communication Impediment indicator on driver's licenses include the following:

• Autism
• Down Syndrome
• Parkinson's Disease
• Speech and Language Disorders
• PTSD
• Brain Injury
• Cerebral Palsy

Those who are diagnosed as deaf or hard of hearing and communicate through different methods other than verbal speech (AKA sign language or assistive technology) qualify for the Deaf or Hard of Hearing indicator on their licenses.

How Do I Change My License?

These changes are strictly voluntary. If you wish to have your driver's license or ID card modified with these new changes, you must bring a Physician/Psychiatrist's Statement Form DL-101 that has been signed by your healthcare provider to your local DPS office.

See this webpage for the list of required documents needed for modifying your Texas driver's license.