Driver's license in Texas

[bluebulb 3]

Hi all,

I'm in Texas, reunited with my fiancee through the K1 visa. We're getting married shortly. I want to thank everyone that helped out with their valuable suggestions and responses to my earlier queries. And also to all those countless contributors whose threads were extremely valuable.

I was in Texas for 8-9 years before I had to go to India for a couple of years. During that time in Texas I had my driver's license and I even had it with me when I went to India. I lost the DL in India and now I am trying to get it replaced. What is the fastest way for me to do that?

I went by the DMV and they said that since I'm on a K1, I will have to wait till I get my new I-94 to get the new DL. First of all, I think they meant the AOS form, but that's another issue. The problem here is that I actually am in the system, I don't need a new license. I just need a replacement. Do I still have to wait a long time to get the license in that case? Anyone familiar with DL issues in Texas?

[Otto 83]

The problem here is that I actually am in the system, I don't need a new license. I just need a replacement. Do I still have to wait a long time to get the license in that case? Anyone familiar with DL issues in Texas?

The thing is - you do need another license - being in the system isn't going to help. Your status has changed since you originally got your DL - you'll need to present new documentation that you are here legally - your current I-94, even if still valid, isn't valid for long enough for them to give you a DL based on it (I believe it would need to be valid for at least 6 months which a K-1 entrant won't get).

You will need to return to the lovely DMV once you have either the PR/Green Card or (I believe) the EAD.

Check requirements on their site - easy link is www.dmv.org

[Nich-Nick 3,354]

Texas has new rules that went into effect Oct. 1 2008. You must have something showing at least 6 months remaining valid status in the US. They are used to people having I-94s for longer stays or that can be renewed is why they told you that. As a K1 you get 90 days, non-renewable, so no license for you right now. You can get a license with the EAD card that will expire in 1 year on the date the EAD expires. It will be a license turned 'portrait' orientation that says Temporary Visitor (since you don't have a green card). When you get the green card, you can go back, pay again, and get a normal license that will expire in 6 years. As an alien, you also will have to go in the DPS office and show your GC to change your address or renew your license, where US Citizens can do it online now. Visitors can drive in Texas for 1 year on their country's license if there is a reciprocal agreement with that country.

(See the first three lines on this page) http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/administratio...s_dl_id.htm#q51

Another link: http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/administratio...StatusChart.pdf