Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Forms
Chances are that any service at the DPS will require you to submit a form at one point or another. The DPS runs off of forms; they use them to organize and manage the constant stream of information flooding their desks at all hours of the day. A trip to the DPS can already be a lengthy process, so it makes sense to research and acquire the forms you will need for the things you want to do there before you even show up. Fortunately, the forms you need can be found online at the Texas DPS website, and can be printed out any time before your visit.
The Texas Drivers Handbook
The drivers handbook is a concise, comprehensive collection of information about driving in the state of Texas. The entire guide can be picked up at any DPS office or downloaded in PDF format. Within it, you’ll learn everything you need to know about safe driving habits, Texas road laws, consequences for various traffic violations, and what you must do to keep your license and registration current with the DPS. Before heading to the DPS with general questions about driving, take a look in the driver’s handbook and see if you can find the answer within.
The handbook is especially useful for people who are preparing for a driver examination or need a refresher on the newest traffic laws and regulations.
Application for a Texas Drivers License or ID Card
One of the most commonly used forms within the DPS is form DL-14A, the Application for a New Drivers License. It’s used when new drivers are ready to take the behind-the-wheel exam and finally become legal independent drivers in Texas. It’s different than a learners license, which only requires written and visual exams to obtain, and does not permit solo driving.
When you arrive at the DPS with your application, be sure to also bring:
- Proof of identification
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of legal presence inside the United States
- Proof of residency in the state of Texas
If you have fulfilled all the requirements of getting a license in Texas, all you need to do is turn in your application and you will be given a temporary license. Your real license will arrive shortly in the mail.
Application for a Texas Title
When you buy a car from a private party, you will have to go through the process of having it retitled in your name. A car’s title is legal proof you have that you are its owner, so it is paramount that you complete the title processing correctly. You will need an Application for a Texas Title (form 130-U), complete with the seller’s signature and all the pertinent information about the vehicle, such as:
- Make, model, and year of manufacture
- Current odometer reading
- Vehicle history
- Lienholder information (if applicable)
- Total purchase price
Although the title is officially the only proof you need, it is also always a good idea to complete a thorough Texas bill of sale with the seller of the car for extra protection and verification.
Remember, the list of all forms for all situations is very long and detailed. Do the research ahead of time to figure out exactly what is required of you, and you will save yourself a lot of time and stress down the line.
