Texas Department of Public Safety driver handbook User manual

Texas Driver Handbook
Revised September 2014
Website: www.dps.texas.gov
Introduction
The Texas Department of Public Safety, Driver License Division, is committed to creating a faster, easier, and
friendlier driver license experience and a safer Texas. One step toward achieving these important goals is to improve
the Texas Driver Handbook by providing you with accurate information on traffic laws, clear images of road signs,
examples of common driving situations, and general safety tips. We have also included special tips to emphasize
important information you need to know.
Although the Texas Driver Handbook has been revised, its primary purpose remains the same: 1) to help you qualify
for a Texas driver license, and 2) to help you become a safer driver.
The information contained in this handbook is not an official legal reference to Texas traffic laws. The information
provided is only intended to explain applicable federal and state laws you need to understand in order to successfully
operate a motor vehicle in Texas. If you would like to know the actual language of any traffic laws referenced in this
handbook, please refer to the Texas Transportation Code and for any criminal laws refer to the Texas Penal Code.
Once you receive your Texas driver license, keep this handbook as a reference on traffic safety and update it as
needed. The Texas Legislature meets every two years and regularly makes changes to traffic laws. For the most current information on driver licensing visit our website at www.dps.texas.gov.
Contact Us
Please contact us if you have any questions regarding this handbook or if you need additional information.
Phone Number: (512) 424-2600
Customer Support page: www.dps.texas.gov/driverlicense/customer_service
Mailing Address: T
exas Department of Public Safety
Driver License Division
PO Box 4087
Austin, TX 78773-0300
If you prefer, you can contact your local driver license office directly. Please refer to Appendix B in this handbook
to locate a driver license office in your area.
If you would like to provide feedback on the information in this handbook visit, www.survey.utexas.edu/txdps/.
ADA Accommodations
If you need to make special arrangements to accommodate a disability prior to visiting a driver license office, you can
e-mail us using our secure website at www.dps.texas.gov/driverlicense/customer_service or call us at (512) 424-2600.
Please contact us five to seven days prior to your visit to allow us time to accommodate your request.
If you are in need of assistance but fail to receive reasonable accommodations, you may have grounds for a grievance.
DPS Grievance Procedures can be found in the 37 Texas Administrative Code §1.41, www.sos.state.tx.us/tac/index.shtml
and on our website at www.dps.texas.gov.
The Texas Department of Public Safety does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin,
age, or disability.
The information contained in the Texas Driver Handbook is the property of the Texas Department of Public Safety and
may not be changed, reproduced, or transmitted for distribution without written consent.
Dear Texas Resident:
The ability to operate a motor vehicle is an important privilege in a state as large as Texas with
over 310,000 miles of public roadways. Whether you are a new driver or a new resident of Texas,
always remember that driving a motor vehicle is one of the most dangerous things most people
do. Every year, in Texas, approximately 3,000 people are killed in traffic crashes and over 80,000
are seriously injured.
Today more than ever, you need to be alert for distracted and impaired drivers operating motor
vehicles. A two-second distraction can kill and permanently injure you and others.
Respectfully,
Steven C. McCraw, Director
Department of Public Safety
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Your License to Drive........................................................................................ 1
Who May Drive a Motor Vehicle in Texas?.......................................................................................1
Types of Texas Driver Licenses...........................................................................................................1
Classified Driver Licenses....................................................................................................................3
Fees and Driver Licenses for Veterans...............................................................................................5
Identification (ID) Cards.....................................................................................................................5
Medical and Emergency Information...............................................................................................5
Organ Donation..................................................................................................................................6
How to Obtain a Texas Driver License...............................................................................................6
Penalties for Driving Without a License............................................................................................9
Restrictions Placed on a License........................................................................................................9
A Replacement (Duplicate) Card.....................................................................................................10
Renewing a License..........................................................................................................................10
Suspensions and Revocations.......................................................................................................... 11
Cancellations.....................................................................................................................................13
Court-Ordered Suspensions, Revocations, and Cancellations.......................................................13
Denials...............................................................................................................................................14
Driving While License Invalid (DWLI)..............................................................................................14
Penalties for Non-Driving Alcohol-Related Offenses by Minors...................................................14
Occupational License (Essential Need License)...............................................................................15
Driver Responsibility Program (DRP)...............................................................................................15
Chapter 2: Vehicle Inspection and Registration.............................................................. 17
Vehicle Inspection............................................................................................................................17
Required Equipment for Vehicles....................................................................................................17
Equipment You Must Not Have.......................................................................................................18
Optional Equipment for Vehicles....................................................................................................18
Registration of Vehicles...................................................................................................................18
Chapter 3: Safety Responsibility...................................................................................... 20
The Liability Insurance Law..............................................................................................................20
Evidence of Financial Responsibility................................................................................................20
Failure to Provide Evidence of Financial Responsibility.................................................................20
Chapter 4: Right-of-Way................................................................................................... 22
Right-of-Way at Intersections..........................................................................................................22
Yield Right-of-Way to Emergency Vehicles....................................................................................24
Yield Right-of-Way to School Buses................................................................................................24
Yield the Right-of-Way to Pedestrians (Persons on Foot).............................................................25
Chapter 5: Signals, Signs, and Markers........................................................................... 27
Traffic Signals....................................................................................................................................27
Traffic Signs.......................................................................................................................................27
Warning Signs...................................................................................................................................28
ii
Regulatory and Warning Signs........................................................................................................32
Guide Signs.......................................................................................................................................34
Railroad Warning Signs....................................................................................................................34
Pavement Markings..........................................................................................................................35
Barrels................................................................................................................................................37
Hearing Impaired..............................................................................................................................37
Construction and Maintenance Devices.........................................................................................37
Obey Warning Signs and Barricades...............................................................................................39
Slow-Moving Vehicle Emblem.........................................................................................................39
Chapter 6: Signaling, Passing, and Turning..................................................................... 40
Signaling...........................................................................................................................................40
Passing...............................................................................................................................................40
Turning..............................................................................................................................................41
Chapter 7: Parking, Stopping, or Standing...................................................................... 44
Do Not Park, Stop, or Stand a Vehicle.............................................................................................44
Do Not Park or Stand a Vehicle.......................................................................................................44
Do Not Park a Vehicle......................................................................................................................44
Chapter 8: Speed and Speed Limits................................................................................. 47
Speed.................................................................................................................................................47
Speed Limits......................................................................................................................................47
Slow Down or Move Over................................................................................................................48
Street Racing.....................................................................................................................................48
Chapter 9: Some Special Driving Situations ................................................................. 49
Headlights.........................................................................................................................................49
Highway Driving...............................................................................................................................49
Controlling a Car in Special Situations............................................................................................50
Winter Driving..................................................................................................................................51
Rotary Traffic Islands (Roundabouts)..............................................................................................52
Floods................................................................................................................................................52
Share the Road with Trucks.............................................................................................................53
Share the Road with Motorcycles....................................................................................................54
Share the Road with Light Rail........................................................................................................55
Share the Road with Bicycles...........................................................................................................55
Chapter 10: Alcohol and Drugs Impact on the Driving Ability...................................... 56
The Number One Killer is Alcohol...................................................................................................56
Texas Tough Alcohol-Related Laws for Minors..............................................................................57
Texas Alcohol-Related Laws for Adults ..........................................................................................59
Know Your Legal Limit.....................................................................................................................59
Chapter 11: Motor Vehicle Crashes.................................................................................. 60
Crash Resulting in Injury to, or Death of a person.........................................................................60
Crash Resulting in Damage to a Vehicle.........................................................................................60
iii
Crash Involving an Unattended Vehicle..........................................................................................60
Crash Resulting in Damages to a Fixture, Landscaping, or Structure...........................................61
Hit-and-Run Crashes.........................................................................................................................61
Aiding the Injured............................................................................................................................61
Chapter 12: Pedestrian Safety.......................................................................................... 62
Laws and Safety Tips for Pedestrians..............................................................................................62
Laws and Safety Tips for Motorists.................................................................................................62
Chapter 13: Bicycle Vehicle Laws and Safety.................................................................. 63
Bicycle Traffic Laws...........................................................................................................................63
Shared Lane Marking.......................................................................................................................63
Bicycles Must Be Properly Equipped...............................................................................................63
Bicycle Safety Guidelines..................................................................................................................64
Riding in Wet Weather....................................................................................................................64
Chapter 14: Additional Safety Tips.................................................................................. 65
Defensive Driving.............................................................................................................................65
Safety Belts.......................................................................................................................................65
Vehicles with Open Beds..................................................................................................................65
When Stopped by Law Enforcement..............................................................................................66
False Identification Offense.............................................................................................................66
Road Rage.........................................................................................................................................66
Neighborhood Electronic Vehicles and Motor Assisted Scooters.................................................66
Speed Reduces Your Field of Vision................................................................................................67
Your Keys to Safe Driving.................................................................................................................67
Transporting Cargo and Materials..................................................................................................67
Appendix A: Glossary of Terms....................................................................................... 69
Appendix B: Driver License Offices................................................................................. 75
Full-Time Driver License Offices.......................................................................................................75
Scheduled Driver License Offices....................................................................................................75
Mega Center Offices........................................................................................................................75
Appendix C........................................................................................................................ 81
Study and Review Questions for Class C Operators.......................................................................81
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Chapter 1: Your License to Drive
Texas Driver Handbook
Chapter 1: Your License to Drive
Who May Drive a Motor Vehicle in Texas?
Individuals who meet the following criteria may drive a motor vehicle in Texas.
1. Texas residents who have a valid Texas driver license.
2. New residents who are properly licensed have 90 days after entry into Texas to secure a Texas driver license.
3. Any person while driving or operating any road machine, farm tractor, or implement of husbandry temporarily operated or moved on a highway is exempt from having a Texas license, unless the vehicle is a commercial motor vehicle.
4. Any nonresident who is at least 16 years of age and possesses a valid driver license issued in the nonresident’s home
state. Nonresidents at least 16 years of age who meet this criteria may drive a vehicle permitted to be operated with a
Class C or Class M driver license in Texas.
5. Nonresidents who are at least 18 years of age may drive any vehicle in Texas if they are legally licensed to drive such a
vehicle in their home state or country, and their home state or country grants like recognition (reciprocity) to citizens
of Texas (Please reference the Texas Administrative Code, Title 37, Sections 15.91 and 15.92).
6. The driver of an official U.S. or state military service motor vehicle may drive a vehicle without a valid Texas driver
license unless the vehicle is a commercial motor vehicle.
7. A nonresident on active duty in the armed forces of the U.S. who has a valid license issued by his/ her home state.
8. A nonresident’s
resident’s spouse or dependent son or daughter who has a valid license issued by such person’s home state.
9. Any person on active duty in the armed forces of the U.S. who has in his/her possession a valid license
issued in a foreign country by the armed forces may drive a motor vehicle in Texas for a period of time not
to exceed 90 days from the date of his/her return to the U.S.
10. Unless a license is suspended, cancelled, revoked, or denied a Texas driver license held by any person who
enters or who is in the U.S. armed forces will remain valid as long as the:
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Types of Texas Driver Licenses
Learner License (Instruction Permit)
A learner license, also known as an instruction permit, allows a student driver to legally practice driving when accompanied by a licensed driver. The licensed driver must be at least 21 years of age with at least one year of driving experience,
must occupy the seat beside the driver, and cannot be intoxicated, asleep, or engaging in any activity that prevents him/her
from observing and responding to the actions of the driver.
Table 1: Learner License
Minimum Age
15 with driver education
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Fee*
Expiration
$15 for license + $1 fee = $16
If applicant is under 18 years of age, license expires on the applicant’s 18th
birthday or six years from next birthday if over 18. License is not renewable as a
learner license. The license must be renewed at regular fees upon expiration or
at the time the driving test is passed and restrictions removed.
*A $1 administrative fee is included in most fees. However, if you are completing multiple transactions at the same time either in-person or online then you will
only be charged the $1 administrative fee once. A $1 administrative fee is not charged for transactions made through the mail.
If you are under 18 years of age and applying for your first Texas driver license or learner license, you must provide evidence that you:
1. Have obtained a high school diploma or its equivalent; or
2. Are a student enrolled in a public school, private school, or home school and attended school for at least 80 days in the
fall or spring semester preceding the date of application; or
3. Have been enrolled for at least 45 days and are enrolled at the time of application in a program to prepare individuals
to pass the high school equivalency exam.
The certificate issued by the school may not be dated more than 30 days before the date of application during the school
year or more than 90 days before the date of application during the summer.
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Texas Driver Handbook
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has developed a Verification of Enrollment and Attendance Form (VOE) you must
obtain from your school. Ask school officials to complete and sign the form then present it to the customer service representative (CSR) at the driver license office when applying for or renewing your license or removing permit restrictions.
Hardship License
A hardship license (previously also known as Minor Restricted Driver License or MRDL) may be issued to a minor who
establishes the necessity to drive. A hardship license is issued for a maximum of one year and may have restrictions based
on the qualifying hardship.
An application for a hardship license must be executed by an authorized adult on behalf of the minor. Both the adult and the
minor must sign the form (DL-77) and present it in person at the driver license office. Only a parent, guardian, or person
having custody of a minor may make application on behalf of a minor. If the minor does not have a parent, guardian, or
custodian then an employer or county judge may apply on behalf of the minor.
A person applying for a hardship license must:
1. Be at least 15 years of age but not more than 18;
2. Complete and pass a driver education course (a driver education course includes both the classroom and behind the
wheel phase), vision test, knowledge test, and driving test; and
3. Meet all other requirements for a first time driver license (original) applicant, please visit our website
www.dps.texas.gov/driverlicense for additional information.
DPS may require supporting documentation or conduct an investigation to confirm the information provided on the
application.
DPS will issue a hardship license if it is determined that:
1. Failure to issue the hardship license will result in an unusual economic hardship for the family of the minor applicant;
2. The hardship license is necessary due to an illness of a family member; or
3. The hardship license is necessary because the minor applicant is enrolled in a Vocational Education program and
requires the license to participate in the program.
Graduated Driver License (GDL)
Teenagers and young adults have the highest crash rates of all drivers, and motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of
death for U.S. teens. Young drivers make up 6.5 percent of the driving population but are responsible for 13 percent of fatal
crashes. In 2002, the Texas Legislature created the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program to ease teens into the driving
experience by phasing in driving privileges and minimizing exposure to high-risk situations.
The GDL program applies to driver license applicants under 18 years of age and has contributed to a decrease in fatal
crashes in recent years. As a part of this program, all new driver license applicants are required to pass a driving skills test
conducted at a driver license office or authorized testing facility.
The GDL program consists of two phases. Phase One applies to learner licenses. Phase Two applies to provisional licenses.
All drivers under 18 years of age must meet the licensing requirements for a learner license or provisional license, but they
are also subject to additional requirements, including driver education and the GDL program.
Phase One: This phase requires applicants under 18 years of age to hold a learner license or a hardship license for a
minimum of six months prior to the issuance of a provisional license. Phase One requirements do not apply to Class M
(motorcycle). Under the GDL program, there is no minimum time a person must hold a restricted motorcycle or moped
license before he/she can apply for a Class M license. Phase One does not apply to hardship license holders. The learner
license must remain valid during the mandatory six-month period to meet this regulation.
If your license is suspended during Phase One then the initial six-month period is extended by the number of days of the
suspension because your license is invalid during this time.
A Texas learner license will be issued to individuals who are at least 15 years of age, present an out-of-state instruction
permit, and submit a VOE form. A Texas learner license must be held for six months from the date of issuance before the
individual is eligible for Phase Two.
Phase Two: Phase Two restricts the driving privileges of individuals until their 18th birthday following the issuance of a
provisional license.
During Phase Two these individuals may not drive a motor vehicle:
1. With more than one passenger in the vehicle under the age of 21 who is not a family member
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Chapter 1: Your License to Drive
Texas Driver Handbook
2. Between midnight and 5:00 a.m. unless the operation of the vehicle is necessary for the driver to work, to attend or
participate in a school-related activity, or due to a medical emergency
Individuals who are under 18 years of age are restricted from using a wireless communication device, including a handsfree device, except in case of an emergency.
Provisional License
A provisional license is a driver license issued to a person 16 to 18 years of age. DPS is required to designate and clearly
mark each driver license issued to a person who is under 18 years of age as a provisional license. All original licenses, other
than a learner license, issued to any individual who is under 18 years of age will have “PROVISIONAL” printed on it. The
license will expire on the individual’s 18th birthday, and a minimum $15 fee is required. Non-commercial driver licenses
issued to any individual who is 18 years of age or older will be valid for six years. A $24 fee is required for the license, and
a $1 administrative fee will be added to transactions made in-person or online.
Out-of-State License Holders
Applicants who are at least 15 years of age but less than 18 who present a valid out-of-state instruction permit will be issued a GDL Phase One learners license. Applicants 16 years of age but less than 18 who present a valid out-of-state driver
license will be issued a Phase Two provisional GDL with passenger and time restrictions. Applicants must meet all other
requirements for a first time (original) applicant.
Individuals who are under 21 years of age will have “UNDER 21” printed on their license.
Classified Driver Licenses
Class A, B, C, and M driver licenses are issued to individuals who are exempt or not required to obtain a commercial driver
license (CDL).
Individuals who operate any of the following vehicles are exempt from obtaining a CDL but may need a Class A or Class B
non-commercial driver license because the type of vehicle driven still meets the definition of a commercial motor vehicle.
For more information on what is considered a commercial motor vehicle, CDL endorsements and requirements for a CDL,
please see Section One in the Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook or you can also download a copy of the
handbook online at www.txdps.state.tx.us/internetforms/Forms/DL-7C.pdf.
1. A fire-fighting or emergency vehicle necessary for the preservation of life or property or the execution of emergency
governmental functions whether operated by an employee of a political subdivision or by a volunteer fire fighter.
2. A military vehicle or a commercial motor vehicle when operated for military purposes by military personnel, members
of the Reserves and National Guard on active duty including personnel on full-time National Guard duty, personnel on
part-time training, and National Guard military technicians.
3. A recreational vehicle driven for personal use.
4. A vehicle that is owned, leased, or controlled by an air carrier, and is driven or operated exclusively by an employee of
the air carrier only on the premises of an airport, on service roads to which the public does not have access.
5. A vehicle used exclusively to transport seed cotton modules or cotton burrs.
6. A vehicle:
a. Controlled and operated by a farmer;
b. Used to transport agricultural products, farm machinery, or farm supplies to or from a farm;
c. Not used in the operation of a common or contract motor carrier; or
d. Used within 150 miles of the person’s farm.
Class A Driver License
A Class A driver license permits a person to drive:
1. A ny vehicle or combination of vehicles described under a Class B or a Class C driver license; and
2. A vehicle or combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 lbs. or more, provided
the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle(s) towed is in excess of 10,000 lbs.
A Class A driver license does not permit a person to drive a motorcycle or moped.
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Chapter 1: Your License to Drive
Texas Driver Handbook
Table 2: Class A Driver License
Minimum Age
Fee*
Expiration
18 or older (Applicants 18 to 24 are required to successfully complete an
approved driver education course.)
$24 for license + $1 fee = $25
Six years
17 with completion of an approved driver education course
$15 for license + $1 fee = $16
On applicant’s next birthday
*A $1 administrative fee is included in most fees. However, if you are completing multiple transactions at the same time either in-person or online then you will
only be charged the $1 administrative fee once. A $1 administrative fee is not charged for transactions made through the mail.
Class B Driver License
A Class B driver license permits a person to drive:
1. Any vehicle included in Class C;
2. A single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 lbs. or more and any such vehicle towing either
a vehicle with a GVWR that does not exceed 10,000 lbs. or a farm trailer with a GVWR that does not exceed 20,000
lbs.; and
3. A bus with a seating capacity of 24 passengers or more including the driver.
A Class B driver license does not permit a person to drive a motorcycle or moped.
Table 3: Class B Driver License
Minimum Age
Fee*
Expiration
18 or older (Applicants 18 to 24 are required to successfully complete an
approved driver education course.)
$24 for license + $1 fee = $25
Six years
17 with completion of an approved driver education course
$15 for license + $1 fee = $16
On applicant’s next birthday
*A $1 administrative fee is included in most fees. However, if you are completing multiple transactions at the same time either in-person or online then you will
only be charged the $1 administrative fee once. A $1 administrative fee is not charged for transactions made through the mail.
Class C Driver License
A Class C driver license permits a person to drive:
1. A single vehicle or combination of vehicles that are not included in Class A or Class B; and
2. A single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of less than 26,001 lbs. towing a trailer not to exceed
10,000 lbs. GVWR or a farm trailer with a GVWR that does not exceed 20,000 lbs.
A Class C driver license does not permit a person to drive a motorcycle or moped.
Table 4: Class C Driver License
Minimum Age
Fee*
Expiration
18 or older (Applicants 18 to 24 are required to successfully complete an
approved driver education course.)
$24 for license + $1 fee = $25
Six years
16 with completion of an approved driver education course
$15 for license + $1 fee = $16
On applicant’s 18th birthday
15 with the approval of a hardship license
$ 5 for license + $1 fee = $6
On applicant’s next birthday
*A $1 administrative fee is included in most fees. However, if you are completing multiple transactions at the same time either in-person or online then you will
only be charged the $1 administrative fee once. A $1 administrative fee is not charged for transactions made through the mail.
Class M Driver License
A Class M driver license permits a person to drive a motorcycle or moped. For more information on a Class M driver
license, visit our website at www.dps.texas.gov/driverlicense/motorcycleLicense.htm.
Minimum Age
Motorcycle: 16 with completion of the classroom phase of a driver education course (32 hours) and a DPS approved motorcycle operator training course (16 hours);
Moped: 15 years of age with completion of the classroom phase of a driver education course (32 hours) and a DPS approved
motorcycle operator training course (16 hours);
Motor-driven cycle of 250 cc or less: 15 with DPS approval for a hardship driver license or completion of the classroom
phase of a driver education course (32 hours) and a DPS approved motorcycle operator training course (16 hours).
Motorcycle training course providers will require drivers who are under 18 years of age to hold a learner license or a valid
Class C license prior to enrolling in a motorcycle operator training course.
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Chapter 1: Your License to Drive
Texas Driver Handbook
Table 5: Fees and Expiration for Class M Driver License
Type
Amount
Expiration
18 and older
$24 for license + $1 administrative fee = $25
Six years
Under 18
$15 for license + $1 administrative fee = $16
On applicant’s 18th birthday
Add M
Add M to current license requires a $15 test fee + $1 administrative fee = $16
Expires with license
Renewal
An additional $8 is required when renewing a Class M license + $1 administrative fee = $9
Varies
*A $1 administrative fee is included in most fees. However, if you are completing multiple transactions at the same time either in-person or online then you will
only be charged the $1 administrative fee once. A $1 administrative fee is not charged for transactions made through the mail.
Fees and Driver Licenses for Veterans
Veterans who are honorably discharged and receive compensation for a service-related disability of at least 60 percent are
exempt from paying driver license and ID card fees. Individuals applying for a CDL and those individuals who are required
to register as a sex offender are not eligible. The veteran must meet all other licensing requirements.
Veteran’s Designation on Driver License
DPS offers a “VETERAN” designation on the face of the driver license and identification card (ID) for qualifying veterans.
For more information on the veteran designation, visit our website at www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/vetServices.htm.
CDL Variances and Waivers – Nonresident CDLs
Individuals who are interested in obtaining a CDL but do not meet all of the requirements may be
eligible for a variance or waiver. For more information on the types of variances and waivers available, please visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration at www.fmcsa.dot.gov or you
can also download a copy of the The Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook online at
www.dps.texas.gov/internetforms/Forms/DL-7C.pdf
For more information on the issuance of a nonresident CDL or for eligibility requirements, visit our webweb
site at www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/nonresidentCDL.htm.
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Identification (ID) Cards
In addition to driver licenses, DPS issues ID cards with a photograph of the applicant. ID cards have a distinguishing number similar to a driver license and are maintained in the driver record file. ID cards are displayed in a vertical format for
individuals who are under 21 years of age and are horizontal for individuals who are 21 and over. Applicants must provide
documents in accordance with DPS ID card policy requirements. Visit the Driver License website at www.dps.texas.gov/
DriverLicense/identificationrequirements.htm for a list of documents that will be accepted to verify who you are.
Table 9: Identification (ID) Cards
Minimum Age
ID cards can be issued to any person of any age. Anyone under the age
of 21 will have “Under 21” printed on the card.
Fee*
Expiration
$15 card + $1 fee = $16
(59 or younger)
Six years
$5 card + $1 fee = $6 (60 or older)
No expiration
*A $1 administrative fee is included in most fees. However, if you are completing multiple transactions at the same time either in-person or online then you will
only be charged the $1 administrative fee once. A $1 administrative fee is not charged for transactions made through the mail.
Medical and Emergency Information
On the reverse side of the card, state law requires DPS to print the statement “Directive to physician has been filed at
telephone #” and “Emergency contact number”. Space is provided on the surface for the license holder to write a telephone number and a box to the left of the statement to indicate why the telephone number is provided.
Space is also provided on the back of the card to allow individuals to voluntarily list health conditions which may impede
communication with a peace officer.
In addition, an application for an original, renewal or replacement driver license or ID allows an applicant to provide the
name, address and telephone number of two individuals that may be contacted in the event of injury or death to the applicant.
Allergic Reaction to Drugs
DPS does not print medical information on driver licenses or ID cards. To add medical information to the back of your
driver license or ID card, use a permanent ink pen and write the following information:
1. Name of your physician
2. Emergency contact number
3. Name of medication that may cause an allergic reaction
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Chapter 1: Your License to Drive
Texas Driver Handbook
Organ Donation
DPS offers “Donate Life Texas” pamphlets to any person who visits a driver license office. The pamphlets provide general
information on the Donate Life Texas program. If you choose to be an organ donor, a small red heart with the word “donor”
will be printed in the lower right corner on the front of the card to indicate your desire to be an organ donor. Cards issued
after August 31, 2005, which indicate a person’s wish to be a donor shall be conclusive evidence of a decedent’s status as a
donor and serve as consent for organ, tissue, and eye donation. You can register to be an organ, tissue, and eye donor online
www.DonateLifeTexas.org.
Voluntary Contributions
If you are applying for an original or renewal driver license or ID card, you can make a $1 voluntary contribution to either
or both of the following programs:
1. The Blindness Education, Screening, and Treatment Program administered by the Texas Commission for the Blind
which provides screening and treatment for those individuals who are without adequate medical coverage; and
2. The Glenda Dawson Donate Life Texas Program which manages the donor registry and statewide donor education
projects.
You may now make a voluntary contribution, in any amount, to the Veteran’s Assistance Fund. This fund provides grants
to local government and nonprofit organizations to enhance or improve veteran assistance programs that address the needs
of veterans and their families.
How to Obtain a Texas Driver License
If you are applying for a Texas driver license, you must comply with the following procedures.
Application for a Texas Driver License
Application for a driver license must be made in person. You can obtain an application at any driver license office or
download an application from our website at www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/ApplyforLicense.htm.
All in-person applicants are provided an opportunity to complete a voter registration application and registration for selective service.
Needed Documents and Information for Application
To apply for a Texas driver license be prepared to provide the following documents and information.
1. Your full name, proof of residential address (for a list of documents that will be accepted, visit www.dps.texas.gov/
DriverLicense/ApplyforLicense.htm or contact your local driver license office), mailing address, place of birth, and
date of birth
2. Identification documents (for a list of documents that will be accepted, contact your local driver license office or visit
www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/ApplyforLicense.htm)
3. Social security card or other acceptable evidence of a social security number (See the Social Security Number (SSN)
section in this handbook for more information)
4. Fingerprints
5. Physical description
6. A nswers to the medical status and history questions listed on the application. Individuals with certain medical limitations may have their cases reviewed by the Medical Advisory Board (MAB) before the license is be issued
7. Surrender any valid out-of-state driver license
8. Current county of residence and U.S. citizenship status or lawful presence (for a list of documents that will be
accepted, visit www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/ApplyforLicense.htm or contact your local driver license office)
Driver Record
A complete record of your examination will be recorded on your application and scanned into the Driver License System
where it becomes a part of your permanent driving record. Any convictions for moving traffic violations or crashes, including out of state records of convictions, will be recorded on this permanent record.
Evidence of Financial Responsibility (Insurance)
If you apply for an original driver license you must provide evidence of financial responsibility or a statement that you do
not own a motor vehicle which requires the maintenance of financial responsibility.
Evidence of financial responsibility must meet at least the minimum amount required by Texas and cover each motor
vehicle the applicant owns that requires maintenance of financial responsibility.
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Vehicle Registration
A new Texas resident must submit with a driver license application evidence that each motor vehicle owned by the person
is currently registered in Texas, or indicate they do not own a motor vehicle required to be registered. A registration receipt
issued by the county tax assessor-collector of the county in which the new resident resides is satisfactory evidence that your
motor vehicle has been registered in Texas.
Fees
The required fee(s) must be submitted before any tests will be given for an original Texas driver license. The fee allows
you to take three tests for each type of exam required. If you fail after three attempts, a new application and fee must be
submitted before any additional tests can be taken. The required tests must be completed within 90 days. The application
fee is valid at any driver license location.
Driver Education
Individuals who are under the age of 25 are required to successfully complete an approved driver education course.
For more information on licensing requirements for applicants who are under the age of 25, visit our website at
www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/ApplyforLicense.htm.
Minors
If you are under 18 years of age, your application must be signed under oath by the parent or guardian with custody. If
there is not a guardian, your employer or county judge may sign the application. The person who signs, before your 18th
birthday, may ask DPS to cancel your license. This request must be in writing and sworn to before an officer authorized to
administer oaths. In addition, the minor applicant and cosigner must acknowledge receipt of information that explains the
zero tolerance law. See Chapter 10: Alcohol and Drugs Impact on the Driving Ability for more information.
Social Security Number (SSN)
All applicants who apply for a Texas driver license are required to present evidence of their SSN. The purpose of requiring
individuals to provide evidence of their SSN is to assist DPS in verifying the identity of each license holder. Any of the
following documents will be accepted to verify a SSN. The document presented can be expired or unexpired but must have
the individual’s full SSN printed on it. Documentation must be unaltered originals, not copies.
• Social Security card
• Pilot license
• Military identification (active, reserve or dependent status)
• Peace officer’s license—Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE)
• DD-214
• Medicare or Medicaid card
• Health insurance card
• Certified college or university transcript
• IRS form W-2 Wage and Tax Statement
• Form 1099-MISC
• Pay stub (stub must include name and SSN)
The complete list of documents is also available on our website at www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/ApplyforLicense.htm.
Testing
Before any tests are given, you must pay the required fee. Your picture will be taken and you will be given a payment
receipt. If you do not pass the knowledge and driving tests on your first attempt, your application will be held in the driver
license office for 90 days. After 90 days or three failed tests, a new application and fee will be required.
The knowledge and driving tests are not required for applicants who surrender a valid out-of-state license. After you have
passed all applicable tests you will be issued a temporary license, which you may use for 45 days or until you receive
your permanent license in the mail. If you do not receive your license in 45 days contact our customer service center at
(512) 424-2600 or www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/customer_service/.
Part 1: The Knowledge Test
As part of the Less Tears More Years Act, all applicants who are under 25 years of age are required to take a driver education course to apply for a driver license. Upon successful completion of certain courses, the person is not required to take
the Class C knowledge test, also known as the written test.
There are three types of knowledge tests.
1. Class C – Knowledge test for all original applicants
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2. Class M – Motorcycle road rules for motorcycle and moped applicants
3. Class A or Class B – Rules for operators of Class A and Class B vehicles
You need a grade of 70 percent or better to pass the knowledge test.
Part 2: The Vision Test
Your vision will be tested when you are at the driver license office. Depending on the results, you may be required to wear
corrective lenses, while driving, if the lenses improve your vision and help increase the safety of your driving. If the results
are inconclusive, you may be referred to your doctor.
Examples of Vehicles for Road Test
The driving test is given only after all other tests have been passed and evidence of financial responsibility is presented or the vehicle is exempt under
A
the Texas Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility Act. The type of vehicle that Class
Test in
must be used for the driving test depends on the class of license applied for.
No one under the age of 18 is exempt from taking the driving test.
Part 3: The Driving Test
Class B
Individuals who complete the DPS-approved motorcycle operator training Test in
course are not required to take a driving test for a Class M license if the
person already has a valid, unrestricted Texas license except for persons
under the age of 18. Also, the driving test is not required for Class C
Test in
anyone applying for a learner license.
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A $10 test fee is required when changing from a lower to
a higher class license, or when removing restrictions from Class M
li- or endorsement
a license. The cost of adding a Class M to an existing li
to existing license
cense is $15.
Description of Driving Test
During the driving test you will not be asked to do anything illegal. You must follow all of the instructions
given by the customer service representative (CSR). Do not carry on a conversation during the driving test.
If you are not eligible to drive in Texas a licensed driver should drive the car to the test area. If you are not issued a driver
license then the licensed driver should also drive you away from the driver license office.
Upon completion of the driving test, the CSR will tell you of any errors you may have made and let you know how to correct those errors.
Your application for a license will not be approved if you:
1. Violate the law
2. Refuse to follow instructions
3. Drive dangerously or have a crash
4. Have more than 30 points deducted on the driving test
All drivers are graded on four basic skills, regardless of the type of driving test.
1. Control – Your ability to make your car do what you want it to do.
2. Observation – Your ability to see what other traffic is doing and other things which may create problems in traffic.
3. Positioning – Your ability to drive in your lane.
4. Signaling – Your ability to use turn signals as required.
You may be graded on your performance on the following skills so it is good to practice before taking the driving test.
a. Parallel parking (you may use the back-up camera on your vehicle for parallel parking; however, the use of an
automated vehicle parking function to parallel park will not be allowed)
b. Quick stop – You may be asked to stop your car as quickly as possible at about 20 mph without skidding your tires.
c. Backing – Your ability to back the car for a distance of about 60 feet at a slow rate of speed and as straight and smoothly
as possible. Turn and look back at all times while backing or you may use the back-up camera and mirrors on your
vehicle while backing; however, the use of an automated vehicle parking function for backing will not be allowed.
d. Stop signs
e. Traffic signals
f. Use of clutch – On standard transmissions, hold the clutch all the way down when starting the motor, shifting gears,
and when speed drops below 10 mph when stopping. Do not ride with your foot resting on the clutch.
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g. Intersection observance – Use the proper lane; slow down and look both ways before entering the intersection.
h. Turns
i. Right-of-way
j. Following, passing, and proper lane observance
k. Posture – Keep hands on steering wheel; don’t rest your elbow on the window.
Pass or Fail Driving Test
If you do not pass the driving test you will be told when you can return for another test. If you pass the driving test:
1. Write down the number of your original license in case it gets lost.
2. Always carry your license with you when driving and upon request, show it to:
a. Any peace officer, sheriff, constable, judge, justice of the peace, or state trooper
b. Anyone with whom you are involved in a crash
Penalties for Driving Without a License
During a stop, a law enforcement officer will determine if you have a valid driver license as required.
Table 10: Penalties for Driving Without a License
Conviction
Penalty*
1st conviction
A fine of up to $200.
2nd conviction in one year
A fine of $25 to $200.
Driving without a license, operating a vehicle without insurance at the time of the
offense, and driver causes a crash resulting in serious bodily injury or death
Class A misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $4,000
and/or confinement in jail for not more than 365 days.
*Additional suspensions and surcharges may apply.
Restrictions Placed on a License
A restriction may be placed on your license. This is not meant to interfere with your driving but to make you a better driver.
Below is a complete list of the restriction codes
Table 11: Restriction Codes
Code
Description
Code
Description
A
With corrective lenses
W
Power steering
B
LOFS 21 or over
X
Vehicle not to exceed Class C
C
Daytime only
Y
Valid Texas vision or limb waiver required
D
Not to exceed 45 mph
Z
Applicable vehicle devices
E
No expressway driving
P1
For Class M TRC 545.424 until MM/DD/YY
F
Must hold a valid learner license to MM/DD/YY
P2
To/from work/school
G
TRC 545.424 applied until MM/DD/YY
P3
To/from work
H
Vehicle not to exceed 26,000 lbs. GVWR
P4
To/from school
I
Motorcycle not to exceed 250 cc
P5
To/from work/school or LOFS 21 or over
J
Licensed MC Operator age 21 or over in sight
P6
To/from work or LOFS 21 or over
K
Moped
P7
To/from school or LOFS 21 or over
L
Vehicle without air brakes (applies to vehicles requiring CDL)
P8
With telescopic lens
M
CDL intrastate commerce only
P9
LOFS 21 or over bus only
N
Ignition interlock required
P10
LOFS 21 or over school bus only
O
Occupational license (no CMV); see court order
P11
Bus not to exceed 26,000 lbs. GVWR
Q
LOFS 21 or over vehicle above Class B
P12
Passenger CMV restricted to Class C only
R
LOFS 21 or over vehicle above Class C
P13
LOFS 21 or over in vehicle equipped with air brake
S
Outside mirror or hearing aid
P14
Operation Class B exempt vehicle authorized
T
Automatic transmission
P15
Operation Class A exempt vehicle authorized
U
Applicable prosthetic device
P16
If CMV, school buses interstate
V
Medical variance documentation required
P17
If CMV, government vehicle interstate
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Table 11: Restriction Codes (continued)
Code
Description
Code
Description
P18
If CMV, only transport personal property (interstate)
P26
If CMV, for operation of mobile crane
P19
If CMV, only transport corpse/sick/injured (interstate)
P27
HME expiration date MM/DD/YY
P20
If CMV, privately transport passengers (interstate)
P28
FRSI CDL valid MM/DD/YY to MM/DD/YY
P21
If CMV, fire/rescue (interstate)
P29
FRSI CDL MM/DD/YY – MM/DD/YY or exempt B vehicles
P22
If CMV, intra-city zone drivers (interstate)
P30
FRSI CDL MM/DD/YY - MM/DD/YY or exempt A vehicles
P23
If CMV, custom harvesting (interstate)
P31
Class C only: no taxi/bus/emergency vehicle
P24
If CMV, transporting bees/hives (interstate)
P32
Other
P25
If CMV, use in oil/water well service/drill
Removing or Adding Restrictions
Contact your local driver license office for more information concerning the removal or addition of any restrictions from
your driver license or learner license.
A Replacement (Duplicate) Card
You should apply for a replacement license or ID card at your local driver license office if your license or ID card has been
lost or destroyed, or for any change in information. Please bring the required application (DL-43) and documents to verify
your citizenship. For more information on the types of documents that will be accepted, visit our website at www.dps.texas.
gov/DriverLicense/.
A change of name or address must be reported to DPS within 30 days. A license expiring in less than 12 months, or in less
than 30 days for a provisional license, should be renewed not duplicated.
Fee (replacement license or change of address): $10 for license + $1 fee for transactions made in-person or online = $11
In-State Licenses
To change your name, you must apply in-person at any driver license office and bring the required documents. For more
information visit our website at www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/.
To change the address on your Texas driver license or ID card you can visit any driver license office, apply online at
www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/ (you must have your card in your possession to apply online), or mail an Application
for Change of Address Certificate (DL-64). If you do not have the required DL-64, you can download one from our website
at www.dps.texas.gov/InternetForms/.
Mailing Address: Texas Department of Public Safety
License and Record Service
PO Box 149008
Austin, TX 78714-9008
Upon receipt of a $10 fee and proper notification, a new license or ID card with the correct address information, with your
previous photograph or valid without photo, will be mailed to you.
A CDL cannot be issued online, by phone, or through the mail. Applicants must apply in person for a CDL.
Out-of-State Licensees
If you are out-of-state but maintaining a Texas driver license, you can apply for a duplicate license by mail. Download the
Out-of-State Packet (DL-16P) or Out-of-Country Application (DL-16) from the website. Complete the required application
and submit the application with a $10 fee to:
Mailing Address: Texas Department of Public Safety
License and Record Service
PO Box 149008
Austin, TX 78714-9008
Applicants must apply in person for a CDL. A CDL cannot be issued online or by mail.
Renewing a License
A renewal notice invitation may be mailed to you about six weeks before your license expires. The notice will be mailed to
the last address you provided to DPS. If you do not receive this notice, it is up to you to renew your license.
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Application for Renewal
An application for renewal must normally be made in person at any driver license office but you may be eligible to renew
online at www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/, by mail, or by phone at 1-866-DL-RENEW. To check your eligibility to
renew, visit us online or call the number provided.
Some of our larger office locations offer the ability to get in line on-line. Please check the website at
www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/ to find out if this service is available at a location near you.
Alternate methods to renew will not be extended to:
1. A ny person whose license is suspended, cancelled, revoked, or denied
2. Commercial driver license (CDL) holders
3. Holders of an occupational license, provisional license, or learner license
4. Licensees restricted because of driving ability or a medical condition that requires periodic reviews, including any
medical or physical condition which may result in progressive changes to a licensee’s ability to safely drive a motor
vehicle
5. Driver license or ID card holders who are subject to sex offender registration or driver license holders who are 79 years
of age or older
6. Driver license holders who do not have a social security number or photo on file
When you are at the driver license office you will be asked questions concerning your medical history. If you have
certain medical limitations, your case will be referred to the Medical Advisory Board (MAB) for their opinion about
how your condition may affect your driving. For more information on MAB, visit our website at
http://www.dps.texas.gov/driverlicense/MedicalRevocation.htm
Individuals Returning to Texas from Military Service
Military personnel returning from duty must present a Texas driver license and separation papers to obtain a renewal
license without taking a test when the license has been expired for over two years.
An Out-of-State Texas Licensee
Most out-of-state Texas licensees may mail in their application for renewal. However, the following individuals who live
out-of-state are not eligible to renew by mail and must renew in-person.
1. A person subject to sex offender registration requirements.
2. A person 79 years of age or older.
3. A person holding a commercial driver license (CDL).
The proper fee and the results of your vision test performed by an eye specialist or an authorized driver license employee
must be included with your application. The license will be renewed and will be “valid to expiration date shown or until
45 days after return to Texas, whichever comes first.”
Make check or money order made payable to: TX DPS. Do not send cash. Mail to:
Mailing Address: Texas Department of Public Safety
Central Cash Receiving
PO Box 15999
Austin, TX 78761-5999
Suspensions and Revocations
Operating a motor vehicle is a privilege. If this privilege is abused it may result in a driver license suspension or revocation.
Mandatory suspensions, revocations, and convictions for certain offenses involving fraudulent government records require
an additional $100 reinstatement fee. Administrative License Revocations (ALR) require an additional $125 reinstatement
fee. Some mandatory suspensions also require filing a Financial Responsibility Insurance Certificate (SR-22).
Mandatory Suspension
Convictions for the following offenses will result in the automatic suspension of your license and driving privilege. See
the Texas Commercial Driver License Handbook for additional information about disqualifications. For minors, see the
Suspensions and Revocations (Under 21) section in this chapter.
1. Driving while intoxicated (DWI) by use of alcohol or drugs
2. Drug offense
3. Intoxication manslaughter or intoxication assault
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4. Failure to stop and render aid
5. Causing the death or serious injury of anyone while operating a motor vehicle; involuntary manslaughter
6. A ny offense punishable as a felony under the motor vehicle laws of Texas
7. Overtaking and passing a school bus (subsequent conviction)
8. Boating while intoxicated
9. Evading arrest
10. Driving while license invalid
11. Altered/unlawful use of a driver license
12. Displaying or possessing a fictitious or altered driver license or ID card
13. Lending a driver license or ID card to someone
14. Possessing more than one valid driver license or ID card
15. Providing false information or documents when applying for a driver license
16. Making, selling, or possessing a document deceptively similar to a driver license or ID card issued by DPS
17. Graffiti
18. Fictitious license plate, registration certificate, or safety inspection sticker
19. Fraudulent government records
20. Racing a motor vehicle on a public highway or street
Administrative Suspensions and Revocations
DPS has the authority to suspend or revoke the driver license or privilege of any driver, after an opportunity for a proper
hearing, for any of the reasons listed below. (See the Texas Commercial Driver License Handbook for information on
disqualifications.) A reinstatement fee is required for all discretionary suspensions and revocations.
1. Driving while license invalid
2. Causing a serious crash while driving a motor vehicle
3. Becoming incompetent to drive
4. Repeated violations of traffic laws, including:
a. Four or more traffic convictions occurring separately within any 12-month period or
b. Seven or more traffic convictions within any 24-month period
5. Failure to complete a drug education program as required upon conviction of a drug offense
6. Failure to provide medical information when requested
7. Failure to take or pass a test when requested
8. Fleeing or attempting to flee from a law enforcement officer
9. Person has committed an offense in another state, which if committed in this state would be grounds for suspension
or revocation
10. Fail to stop for a school bus (second conviction)
11. Violates a probation order set by a previous hearing
Suspensions and Revocations (Under 21)
Convictions or failure to comply with the following offenses will result in the automatic suspension of the driving privilege
of individuals who are under 21 years of age (See Administrative License Revocation (ALR) section for more suspension
information regarding minors.)
Alcoholic Beverage Code Offenses
1. Minor in possession
2. Attempt to purchase alcohol by a minor
3. Purchase of alcohol by a minor
4. Consumption of alcohol by a minor
5. Misrepresentation of age by a minor
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6. Driving or operating a watercraft under the influence of alcohol by a minor
7. Failure to complete an alcohol awareness class
Health and Safety Code Violations
1. Failure to complete a tobacco awareness class when required
2. Drug offense
3. A n offense under the Controlled Substance Act
4. A felony under Chapter 481 that is not a drug offense
Family Code Violations
1. Delinquent conduct by a minor or juvenile
2. Truancy
Suspend or Revoke After Hearing of Minor
DPS has the authority to suspend or revoke the license or driving privilege of a minor after a proper hearing, for:
1. Failure to appear or default in payment of a fine for a traffic or a non-traffic violation;
2. A juvenile court order;
3. Failure to pay a fine or juvenile contempt; and
4. Two or more traffic convictions occurring separately within any 12-month period for a driver who has a provisional
driver license.
Administrative License Revocation (ALR)
The Administrative License Revocation (ALR) law became effective January 1, 1995. A $125 reinstatement fee is required
for all ALR suspensions.
DPS is authorized to suspend a license or driving privilege:
1. For individuals who are over 21 years of age who fail a breath or blood test (the blood alcohol content indicates a level
of 0.08 or more);
2. Of any person who refuses to submit to a breath or blood test; or
3. For individuals who are under 21 years of age for any detectable amount of alcohol.
Cancellations
DPS is authorized to cancel the driver license or ID card of individuals who do not meet certain qualifications. The following types of cases require cancellation of a driver license or ID card:
1. Suspension and revocation action from another state
2. Parental authorization withdrawn (for individuals who are under 18 years of age)
3. Failure to give the required information on the application for the license or ID card
4. Person was not entitled to the license or ID card
5. Incomplete driver education
6. Voluntary surrender for medical or insurance purposes
7. False statement on an application for a license or ID card
Court-Ordered Suspensions, Revocations, and Cancellations
Upon receipt of a court order, DPS will suspend, revoke, or cancel a license or driving privilege for:
1. Delinquent child support
2. Requirement for an ignition interlock device (see www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/IgnitionInterlock.htm for more
information)
3. Failure to repay any overpayment of food stamps or financial assistance
4. Mentally incapacitated
5. Chemically dependent
6. Failure to renew their license annually as required (classified sex offender)
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Denials
DPS is authorized to deny the issuance of a driver license to a person who is ineligible to receive a license in this state. An
applicant may be denied a driver license for:
1. Suspension/revocation/cancellation/disqualification status in Texas, another state, or Canadian Province
2. Physical or mental incapacity preventing the safe operation of a motor vehicle
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4. Certain criminal mischief (i.e. graffiti, etc.)
5. Purchasing or furnishing alcohol to a minor
6. Delinquent child support
Driving While License Invalid (DWLI)
The penalties for driving a motor vehicle while your license or driving privilege is suspended, cancelled, denied, or revoked are provided in the Penalties for Driving While License Invalid (DWLI) table.
Table 12: Penalties for Driving While License Invalid (DWLI)
Offense
Penalty
Driving a motor vehicle while driver license or privilege is suspended, cancelled,
denied, or revoked.
Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up
to $500.
The person has a previous conviction for the same offense, was operating a vehicle
without insurance at the time of the offense, or the person’s license had been suspended because of an offense involving operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated.
Class B misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to
$2,000 and/or confinement in jail for not more than
180 days.
The person was operating a vehicle without insurance at the time of the offense and
caused a crash which resulted in serious bodily injury or death of another. The suspension will automatically be extended.
Class A misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to
$4,000 and/or confinement in jail for not more than
365 days.
Penalties for Non-Driving Alcohol-Related Offenses by Minors
The Zero Tolerance law provides penalties for minors who commit offenses under the non-driving alcohol related offenses.
A minor may not purchase, attempt to purchase, falsely state he/she is 21 years of age or older, or present a document
indicating he/she is 21 years of age or older to a person engaged in selling or serving alcohol beverages. A minor may not
consume, or possess an alcoholic beverage.
Table 13: Penalties for Non-Driving Alcohol-Related Offenses - Minors
Offense
Penalty
1st offense
Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500, 8 to 12 hours of community service, and mandatory
alcohol awareness course attendance. The driver license will be suspended (or privilege will be denied if not
licensed) for 30 days.
2nd offense
Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $500, 20 to 40 hours of community service, and the minor may
be required to attend an alcohol awareness course. The driver license will be suspended (or privilege will be denied
if not licensed) for 60 days.
3rd offense
(At least 17 years of age
but less than 21)
Class B misdemeanor punishable by a fine of $250 to $2,000; minor may also be required to attend an alcohol
awareness course. The driver license will be suspended (or privilege will be denied if not licensed) for 180 days.
Minors are not eligible for deferred disposition on the third conviction or any conviction after.
3rd offense
(Under 17 years of age)
Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $500, 20 to 40 hours of community service, and the minor may
be required to attend an alcohol awareness course. The driver license will be suspended (or privilege will be denied
if not licensed) for 60 days, or the case can be transferred to Juvenile Court as delinquent conduct.
A minor who is convicted of driving while his/her license is suspended because of a non-driving alcohol related offense is
subject to the penalties of Driving While License Invalid (DWLI).
Other Non-Driving Penalties for Alcohol-Related Offenses
A person, who purchases, furnishes, or sells an alcoholic beverage to a minor is subject to the penalties as outlined in the
Penalties for Purchasing, Furnishing, or Selling Alcohol to a Minor table.
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Table 14: Penalties for Purchasing, Furnishing, or Selling Alcohol to a Minor
Offense
Penalty
Purchased or furnished alcohol to a minor
A fine of up to $4,000 and/or confinement in jail for up to one year.
Sold alcohol to a minor
A fine of up to $4,000 and/or confinement in jail for up to one year.
Occupational License (Essential Need License)
An occupational license, also called an essential need license, is a special type of restricted license issued to individuals:
1. Whose driver license has been suspended, revoked, or denied for certain offenses (other than medical or delinquent
child support); and
2. Who can prove to a court there is an essential need to drive.
Individuals may still qualify for an occupational license even if their driver license has been suspended for surcharges.
Application for an occupational license is made to the district, county, or justice of the peace court in the precinct or county
of the licensee’s residence or to the court of original jurisdiction, whichever is applicable. If the court determines an individual is eligible to apply for an occupational license then a court order will be issued. The court order is not the occupational
license. A court order only authorizes DPS to issue the occupational license. The applicant must submit the court order and
all required items to DPS before an occupational license can be issued. The fee for this type of license is $10 per year.
A person issued an occupational license must also carry a certified copy of the court order when operating a vehicle and
must allow a law enforcement officer to examine the order at the officer’s lawful request. An occupational license may not
be issued to drive a commercial motor vehicle.
For more information on occupational licenses, visit our website at
http://www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/OccupationalLicense.htm.
Driver Responsibility Program (DRP)
The Driver Responsibility Program (DRP) establishes a system that authorizes the Texas Department of Public Safety
(DPS) to assess surcharges to an individual based on certain traffic offenses.
A surcharge is an administrative fee based on convictions reported to the driver record. A surcharge is in addition to other
types of fees and does not replace a suspension, revocation, disqualification, denial or cancellation action resulting from
the same conviction. To check your driver eligibility, visit www.texas.gov/LicenseEligibility.
Two criteria are used to determine if a surcharge will be assessed: Point system and Conviction based.
Individuals who have both points and convictions reported to their driver record will receive separate surcharges for each
offense; a surcharge for the points and a surcharge for the conviction.
Point System
Points are assessed for traffic convictions. Once the conviction has been reported to the driver record, points are assigned
and remain on your driver record for three years. A person will receive:
• Two points for a Texas or out-of-state traffic conviction
• Three points for a Texas or out-of-state traffic conviction that resulted in a crash
A surcharge is assessed when the driver has six or more points on his/her driver record within three years. The driver is
required to pay an additional $100 surcharge for the first six points and $25 for every point after six.
Conviction Based
A driver who receives a conviction for one of the offenses listed in the Conviction Based Surcharges (DRP) table is assessed a surcharge every year for three years. Points are not assessed for these offenses because the surcharge is automatic
upon conviction.
Table 15: Conviction Based Surcharges (DRP)
Type of Conviction
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) - 1st offense
Surcharge
$1,000
DWI - Two or more offenses
$1,500
DWI with blood alcohol concentration of 0.16 or greater
$2,000
No insurance
$250
Driving While License is Invalid (DWLI); license is cancelled, suspended, or revoked
$250
No driver license (No license, expired license, no CDL, or endorsement violation)
$100
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Chapter 1: Your License to Drive
Texas Driver Handbook
DPS Contracts with a Vendor
DPS contracts with an outside vendor (Municipal Services Bureau – MSB) to collect surcharges. This vendor is legally
authorized to charge the following service fees in addition to the surcharge:
1. A service fee of four percent of the original surcharge amount;
2. A n installment plan payment fee of $2.50 per partial payment;
3. A credit or debit card fee of 2.25 percent of payment plus $0.25 (except where prohibited by law); and
4. A n electronic check fee of $2.00 per payment.
Driver Record Review
DPS reviews surcharge cases annually. The number of points on a record can vary each year based on convictions that are
added or removed. Please be aware there is a lapse in time from the date you are convicted for an offense and the date your
conviction is reported to DPS by the courts. As a result, a point may be added to your record for an offense committed in
a previous year.
Driver Notification
A letter will be mailed to you notifying you of the surcharges you have been assessed. Letters are mailed to the address
DPS has on record so it’s important to notify DPS of any changes to your information. (To change your address online, visit
our website at www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/)
Payment of Surcharges
Surcharges must be paid within 105 days or an individual’s driver license will be suspended for failure to comply with
the surcharge requirements. The individual’s driving privileges will remain suspended until an installment agreement is
established or all surcharges and related costs are paid in full.
Payments can be made online at www.txsurchargeonline.com or by calling 800-688-6882.
Individuals may also mail a personal check, money order or cashier’s check to the address below. Do not send cash.
Individuals must write their name, driver license number and reference number on their payment so their record can be
properly identified. Make check or money order payment to MSB and allow three days for processing.
Mailing Address: Surcharge Processing
PO Box 16733
Austin, Texas 78761-6733
Indigency and Incentive Programs
The Indigency program reduces the amount of surcharges owed for some individuals who have incomes at or below
125 percent of the federal poverty guidelines.
The Incentive program reduces the amount of surcharges owed for some individuals who have incomes above 125 percent
and below 300 percent of the federal poverty guidelines.
A summary of additional features and requirements of this program are:
1. Only surcharges assessed on or after September 30, 2004, are eligible for a reduction.
2. Under the Indigency program the surcharge amount owed is reduced to 10 percent of the total or $250, whichever
is less.
3. Under the Incentive program the surcharge amount owed is reduced to 50 percent.
4. Customers are still required to pay the full amount of all other applicable fees.
5. Once approved for a reduction under either program, the individual must pay the reduced balance in full within six (6)
months. All surcharge suspensions will be lifted during this period. If the individual does not pay the balance in full
by the due date, their driving privileges will be suspended until the reduced balance is paid in full.
To learn more about program eligibility requirements, poverty guidelines, or the application process visit our website at:
www.txdps.state.tx.us/DriverLicense/IncentiveProgram.htm, www.txdps.state.tx.us/DriverLicense/IndigencyProgram.htm
or call (866) 223-3583.
16
Chapter 2: Vehicle Inspection and Registration
Texas Driver Handbook
Chapter 2: Vehicle Inspection and Registration
Vehicle Inspection
All motor vehicles registered in Texas, including motorcycles, motor scooters, and mopeds must be inspected each year
by an official motor vehicle inspection station. Evidence of financial responsibility for the vehicle being inspected must
be presented at the time of inspection. If evidence of financial responsibility is not presented an inspection sticker will not
be issued.
When a vehicle passes inspection, an approved sticker must be placed on the windshield. Motorcycles and mopeds must
have the inspection sticker displayed near the rear license plate. These inspection stickers are good for one year from the
month of inspection. Any vehicle involved in a crash must be reinspected after repairs have been made.
In addition to the safety inspection, an emissions test is required for motor vehicles capable of being powered by gasoline,
from 2 to 24 years old and registered in or required to be registered in and primarily operated in a designated county. Designated counties include Dallas, Tarrant, Denton, Collin, Ellis, Johnson, Kaufman, Parker, Rockwall, Harris, Fort Bend,
Brazoria, Galveston, Montgomery, El Paso, Travis, and Williamson counties.
Required Equipment for Vehicles
You must have the following equipment in proper working order for your car to be considered safe.
Table 16: Required Equipment for Motor Vehicles
Item
Description
Brakes
1. Foot Brake - Must stop car within a distance of 25 feet at a speed of 20 mph.
2. Parking Brake - Should be adequate to stop and hold car.
Lights
1. Two Headlights (one on each side of the front) - A beam indicator showing when the high headlight
beam is on.
2. Taillights - All vehicles must be equipped with two taillights. Exception: Cars manufactured before 1960
are only required to have one taillight.
3. Brake (Stop) Lights - All vehicles must have two brake lights. Exception: Cars manufactured before 1960
are only required to have one brake light.
4. License Plate Light- A white light that lights the rear license plate when the headlights (or auxiliary
lamps) are lighted.
5. Parking Lights - White or amber on the front, red to the rear (may be combined with other lights).
6. Reflectors - Two red reflectors, one on each side of the car (may be combined with taillights) must be
placed at a height of 15 to 60 inches and be visible up to 600 feet; visible up to 350 feet on vehicles
manufactured before 1960.
7. Turn Signals - Every motor vehicle, trailer, semi-trailer, and pole-trailer must have electric turn signals
(except motorcycles and certain trailers). Exception: Passenger cars and trucks less than 80 inches in
width and manufactured before 1960 are not required to have electrical turn signals.
Horns
Horns must be heard for a minimum distance of 200 feet.
Muffler and exhaust system
All 1968 or later models must be equipped with an exhaust emission system to help reduce air pollution.
Safety glass
New cars must be equipped with safety glass. Replacements of glass for any car must be with safety glass.
License plates
Vehicles must have one valid plate at the front and one at the rear of passenger and commercial vehicles
except dealer plates and commercial vehicles that are only issued one license plate.
Windshield wiper
Windshield wipers are necessary for safety in bad weather.
Rearview mirror
A rearview mirror must be able to reflect a view of the highway for a distance of at least 200 feet to the
rear of the vehicle.
Slow moving vehicle emblem
Farm tractors and machinery, road construction machinery, animal-drawn vehicles and certain other motor
vehicles assigned to travel at 25 mph or less must display the slow-moving vehicle emblem.
Front safety belts
Front safety belts are required if safety belt anchorages were part of the original equipment of the vehicle.
Tires
All vehicles are required to have tires in proper and safe condition with a minimum depth of 2/32 of an
inch.
Fuel cap
The fuel cap on gasoline-powered vehicles from 2 to 24 years old will be checked to determine if the fuel
cap is missing or defective. Exception: Antique vehicles, circus vehicles, slow moving vehicles, motorcycles,
and vehicles operated exclusively by a fuel other than gasoline and vehicles newer than 2 years or older
than 24 years.
For information on house trailer lights, flares, flags, etc., please see the special requirements section in the Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver Handbook. For information on motorcycles, see the Motorcycle Operator’s Manual.
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Chapter 2: Vehicle Inspection and Registration
Texas Driver Handbook
Equipment You Must Not Have
The following equipment is considered unsafe and is not allowed on your vehicle:
1. A red light showing from the front except an emergency vehicle.
2. A bell, siren, or exhaust whistle except on an emergency vehicle.
3. A muffler cutout.
4. Anything extending more than three inches beyond the left side or six inches beyond the right side of the body, running
board, or fenders of your car.
5. Flashing red lights on the front except on emergency vehicles, school buses, and church buses.
6. A radar interference device designed, manufactured, used, or intended to be used to interfere with, scramble, disrupt,
or cause to malfunction a radar or laser device used to measure a vehicle’s speed.
Minimum Road Clearance
A vehicle must not be modified or weighted in such a manner where the body is below the lowest part of the rims of the
wheels.
Optional Equipment for Vehicles
The following equipment is considered optional and is not required to be on your vehicle.
Table 17: Optional Equipment for Motor Vehicles
Optional Item
Spotlight
Description
Spotlights must be turned off for a vehicle approaching from the opposite direction. If headlights fail, it
may be used with the beam striking the road not more than 50 feet in front of the vehicle on which it
is used.
Side cowl or fender light
Two of these types of lights are permitted; must show amber or white light without glare.
Running board courtesy lights
One running board courtesy light is permitted on each side; must show amber or white light without a
glare.
Backup lights
Two backup lights are permitted separately or in combination with other lights. Do not use when vehicle is
in forward motion.
Flashing lights
Widespread flashing lights may be used on any vehicle to warn of unusual traffic hazards; must show flashing amber or white to the front and flashing amber or red to the rear and must flash simultaneously.
Additional lights
Any motor vehicle may have up to three additional driving lights mounted on the front, not less than
12 inches but not more than 42 inches from the road surface.
Sunscreen or window tinting
If sunscreen or window tinting is used, it must comply with the appropriate state regulations for your
vehicle make and model.
Registration of Vehicles
All vehicles must be registered in the county of residency. Once the vehicle is properly registered, a registration sticker will
be issued that must be displayed on the vehicle’s windshield or on the rear license plate of a motorcycle or moped.
1. An owner must register a newly purchased vehicle within 30 days of purchase.
2. Nonresident truck owners may be issued 30-day temporary registration permits for certain movements of farm products and machinery during harvesting season.
3. Under certain conditions, temporary registration permits and reduced registration rates for special vehicles may be
obtained (See your County Tax Assessor-Collector for more information).
4. Buyers’ temporary tags are recognized for 60 days; dealers’ metal registration plates may be used on any dealer-owned
vehicle except for commercial purposes (vehicle inspection is required).
5. A manufacturer’s metal registration plate may be used for testing purposes only; a vehicle inspection is required. Dealers temporary cardboard tags may be used for demonstrating a vehicle for sale, or for transporting or servicing vehicles
without a motor vehicle inspection certificate.
6. Farm registered vehicles, in addition to use for farm and ranch purposes, may be used as a means of passenger transportation for members of the family to attend church or school, to visit doctors for medical treatment or supplies, or
for other necessities of the home or family, but not for gainful employment.
7. For registration applications and detailed information, consult your County Tax Assessor-Collector or the Texas
Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Additional information may also be obtained from DPS publications pertaining to commercial vehicles.
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Chapter 2: Vehicle Inspection and Registration
Texas Driver Handbook
Vehicles Not Required to be Registered or Inspected
The following vehicles are not required to be registered, inspected, or to display a license plate when temporarily operated
on highways:
1. Farm tractors
2. Farm trailers, farm semi-trailers, and certain fertilizer and cottonseed trailers weighing not more than 4,000 lbs. gross
3. Implements of agriculture
4. Power sweepers
5. Certain golf carts
6. Electric bicycles
7. Motorized and electric personal assistive mobility devices
When temporarily operated on highways, the following vehicles are not required to be registered or inspected if the owner
annually secures a distinguishing $5 license plate and complies with other special conditions in the law:
1. Machinery for drilling water wells and construction machinery.
2. Farm trailers, farm semi-trailers, cotton trailers, cottonseed trailers, and certain fertilizer trailers weighing over
4,000 lbs. but less than 34,000 lbs gross.
Vehicle Registration for New and Nonresidents of Texas
A new Texas resident must register every vehicle he/she owns before applying for a Texas driver license.
When a nonresident establishes residency in Texas or enters into gainful employment, his/her vehicle may be operated for
30 days. After 30 days, the vehicle must be registered in Texas.
New residents registering a vehicle must obtain a Texas vehicle inspection certificate and verification of the vehicle identification number (VIN) by a state-approved vehicle inspection station prior to registration. The vehicle owner will then
be provided the necessary form for processing the vehicle registration. Evidence of financial responsibility for the vehicle
being registered must be presented at the time of registration. If evidence of financial responsibility is not presented, the
vehicle cannot be registered. The registration receipt issued by the county tax assessor-collector for each vehicle will be
acceptable proof of the registration when applying for a Texas driver license.
19
Chapter 3: Safety Responsibility
Texas Driver Handbook
Chapter 3: Safety Responsibility
The Liability Insurance Law
The Texas Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility Act was enacted to ensure all drivers are financially responsible for the
death, injury, or property damage they may cause while operating a motor vehicle. All owners and/or operators of motor
vehicles in Texas must have at least the minimum amount of liability insurance.
Effective January 1, 2011, the minimum amount of liability insurance is:
• $30,000 against injury or death of one person
• $60,000 against injury or death of two individuals
• $25,000 against property damage
To comply with the Texas Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility Act, a driver, unless exempt, must maintain liability insurance or be self-insured under the provisions of the Act. Evidence of financial responsibility must be presented at the time a
person applies for a driver license, registers a motor vehicle, or obtains a motor vehicle inspection certificate.
Every owner or operator of a motor vehicle in Texas is required to furnish evidence of financial responsibility to a law
enforcement officer or to another person involved in a crash upon request.
Evidence of Financial Responsibility
The following list includes items that will be accepted as evidence of financial responsibility.
1. A liability insurance policy in at least the minimum amounts.
2. A standard proof of liability insurance form prescribed by the Texas Department of Insurance and issued by a liability
insurer that includes the:
a. Name of the insurer, insurance policy number, and policy period;
b. Name and address of each insured;
c. Policy limits or a statement the coverage of the policy complies with at least the minimum amounts of liability
insurance required by this Act; and
d. The make and model of each covered vehicle.
3. An insurance binder indicating the owner and/or operator is in compliance.
4. A certificate or copy of a certificate issued by the state comptroller showing the owner of the vehicle has on deposit
with the treasurer money or securities for at least $55,000.
5. A surety bond issued by DPS showing the vehicle has a bond on file with DPS.
6. A copy of a certificate issued by the county judge of a county in which the vehicle is registered and shows the owner
of the vehicle has on deposit with the county judge, cash or a cashier’s check for at least $55,000.
7. A certificate issued by DPS showing a person has more than 25 vehicles registered in his/her name, qualifies as a
self-insurer.
8. An image displayed on a wireless communication device that includes the information required in a standard insurance form.
Failure to Provide Evidence of Financial Responsibility
If an individual fails to provide evidence of financial responsibility when required, he/she may receive a citation. The court
may dismiss the charge if the individual provides evidence that a liability insurance policy was in effect when the citation
was issued.
Upon conviction of driving a motor vehicle without sufficient evidence of financial responsibility, when required, a driver
is subject to penalties.
Table 18: Penalties for Driving Without Evidence of Financial Responsibility
Conviction
Penalty
1st conviction
A fine of $175 to $350.
2nd conviction and every
conviction after
Suspension of driver license and motor vehicle registration, a fine of $350 to $1,000, and court-impoundment
of the motor vehicle driven or operated by the person at the time of the offense provided the defendant was
an owner of the vehicle at the time of the offense and is an owner of the vehicle on the date of conviction.
The vehicle shall be impounded for 180 days. Before the court orders the release of the vehicle, evidence of
financial responsibility must be presented to the court.
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Chapter 3: Safety Responsibility
Texas Driver Handbook
The vehicle registration, license or driving privilege of a driver will be suspended:
1. Upon conviction of a traffic violation providing for a suspension of a driver license, unless evidence of insurance is
presented to the DPS;
2. If a judgment resulting from a crash has not been satisfied within 60 days of the judgment;
3. If an installment agreement arising out of a settlement of a crash is in default;
4. If, while uninsured, the individual was involved in a crash in which another person was killed, injured, or there was
at least $1,000 damage to a person’s property and there exists a reasonable probability of a judgment being rendered
against the driver; and
5. W hen required to maintain evidence of financial responsibility for two years from the most recent conviction date.
More specific information about compliance with the Texas Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility Act may be found
online at www.txdps.state.tx.us/DriverLicense/sr22InsuranceCertificate.htm. You may also visit any driver license office
or write to:
Mailing Address: Texas Department of Public Safety
Enforcement and Compliance Service
PO Box 4087
Austin, TX 78773-0320
21
Chapter 4: Right-of-Way
Texas Driver Handbook
Chapter 4: Right-of-Way
Drivers, at times, must yield to others. There are certain rules to help determine the right-of-way, but if the other driver
doesn’t follow these rules, give him/her the right-of-way. Remember, in every situation, right-of-way is something to be
given, not taken. All drivers should know and understand the rules that determine the right-of-way.
Table 19: Penalties for Failure to Yield Right-of-Way
Offense
Penalty
Driver commits any traffic offense of which failure to yield the right-of-way to another vehicle is an element
and causes bodily injury to another.
A fine of $500 to $2,000.
Driver causes serious bodily injury to another.
A fine of $1,000 to $4,000.
Right-of-Way at Intersections
Intersections Controlled by Signs and Signals
When signs and signals control traffic at an intersection, obey them. Know the meaning of each sign
and signal. See Chapter 5 for more information.
Single or Two-Lane Road Intersecting a Multi-Lane Road
When driving on a single or two-lane road, yield to vehicles traveling on a divided street or road and
to vehicles traveling on a road with three or more lanes.
Unpaved Road Intersecting a Paved Road
If you are driving on an unpaved road that intersects with a paved road, you must yield the right-ofway to vehicles traveling on the paved road.
Intersections Not Controlled by Signs, Signals, Multi-Lanes, or Pavement
When approaching this type of intersection, yield the right-of-way to any vehicle that has entered or is
approaching the intersection on your right. If the road to your right is clear or if approaching vehicles
are far enough from the intersection to make your crossing safe, you may proceed. Since there are
not any traffic controls at this intersection, make sure there are no approaching vehicles from the left.
You may legally have the right-of-way but be sure the other driver yields to you before you proceed.
Turning Left
When turning left, yield the right-of-way to any vehicle coming straight through from the other
direction.
Private Roads and Driveways
When entering or crossing a road, street, or highway from a private road, alley, building, or driveway
after stopping prior to the sidewalk, you must yield the right-of-way to all approaching vehicles and
pedestrians.
T-Intersection
When approaching an intersection of a through street from a street that ends at the intersection,
stop then yield the right-of-way to vehicles on the through street.
Enter or Leave Controlled-Access Highway
The driver proceeding on a frontage road of a controlled-access highway must yield the right-ofway to a vehicle:
• Entering or about to enter the road from the highway; and
• Leaving or about to leave the road to enter the highway.
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Chapter 4: Right-of-Way
Texas Driver Handbook
ONE-WAY FRONTAGE ROAD
YIELD
YIELD
YIELD
TWO-WAY FRONTAGE ROAD
YIELD
Driving on Multiple-Lane Roads
On a road divided into three or more lanes providing for one-way movement, a vehicle entering a lane of traffic from the
right must yield the right-of-way to a vehicle entering the same lane of traffic from the left.
Railroad Grade Crossings
When approaching a railroad grade crossing, stop between 15 feet and 50 feet from the nearest rail if:
1. A clearly visible railroad signal warns of the approach of a train
2. A crossing gate is lowered or a flag person warns of a train
3. The driver is required to stop by other law, a rule adopted under a statute, an official traffic-control device, or a trafficcontrol signal
4. An approaching train within about 1,500 feet of the crossing produces an audible signal and is an immediate hazard
5. An approaching train is visible and in unsafe proximity to the crossing
A person who fails to obey the law regarding railroad grade crossings is subject to a fine of $50 to $200.
You are required to stop at a railroad grade crossing and remain stopped until allowed to proceed or it is safe to proceed.
Additional Safe Driving Procedures at Railroad Crossings
1. If a railroad crossing is marked only with a cross-buck sign, reduce speed, look both ways, and listen for a whistle. If
a train is approaching, stop. If a train is not approaching, proceed with caution.
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Chapter 4: Right-of-Way
Texas Driver Handbook
2. If red lights are flashing at a railroad crossing, stop. If a train is approaching, remain stopped until the train passes
and the lights stop flashing.
3. If the railroad crossing gates have been lowered, stop. Remain stopped and wait until the train has passed and the gates
are raised before crossing.
4. Never stop on the tracks. If your car stalls on the tracks and you cannot restart it, get out and try to push the car off
the tracks. If you cannot push the car off the tracks, get help. If a train is approaching and your vehicle is stalled, get
out quickly and move away from the tracks. Run toward the approaching train to avoid flying debris. Stay clear of the
tracks.
5. Be sure the tracks are clear before you proceed to cross. There may be two or more sets of tracks. One train could be
blocking the view of another.
6. Remember, trains do not and cannot stop at crossings. Trains always have the right-of-way.
7. Audible signs or whistles may be difficult to hear when approaching railroad crossings. Roll your window down, turn
your radio down, and listen carefully.
If you encounter a railroad grade crossing signal problem, call the Texas Department of
Public Safety Communications Center at (800) 772-7677 or call your local police department or county sheriff’s office. Each railroad crossing signal has an identifying number.
Please note the number and be ready to provide it when reporting a problem.
Yield Right-of-Way to Emergency Vehicles
Yield (or give) the right-of-way to police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, and other emergency vehicles sounding a siren, bell, or flashing red light. If traffic allows, pull to the right
edge of the road and stop. If you are unable to pull over to the right, slow down and leave a
clear path for the emergency vehicle.
1. You are not allowed to follow within 500 feet of a fire truck answering an alarm or an
ambulance when the flashing red lights are on.
2. Do not drive or park on the street where the fire truck has answered an alarm.
3. Do not park in a location that interferes with the arrival or departure of an ambulance to or from the scene of an
emergency.
Unless otherwise directed by a law enforcement officer, drivers who approach a stopped emergency vehicle with its lights
activated must:
1. Vacate the lane closest to the emergency vehicle if the highway has two or more lanes traveling in the direction of the
emergency vehicle;
2. Slow to a speed not more than 20 mph less than the posted speed limit when the posted speed limit is 25 mph or more;
or
3. Slow to a speed less than 5 mph when the posted speed limit is less than 25 mph.
Yield Right-of-Way to School Buses
STOP
SCHOOL
BUS
STOP
You must yield the right-of-way to school buses. Always drive with care when you are near a school bus. If you approach
a school bus from either direction and the bus is displaying alternately flashing red lights, you must stop. Do not pass the
school bus until:
1. The school bus has resumed motion;
2. You are signaled by the driver to proceed; or
3. The red lights are no longer flashing.
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Chapter 4: Right-of-Way
Texas Driver Handbook
It is not necessary to stop when passing a school bus on a different road or when on a controlled-access highway where
the bus is stopped in a loading zone and pedestrians aren’t permitted to cross. A person who fails to obey the law regarding yielding the right-of-way to school buses displaying alternating, flashing lights is subject to the penalties listed in the
Penalties for Failure to Yield Right-of-Way to School Bus table.
Table 20: Penalties for Failure to Yield Right-of-Way to School Bus
Conviction
Penalty
1st conviction
A fine of $500 - $1,250.
2nd conviction and every conviction after (within 5 years)
A fine not less than $1000 or more than $2000, possible suspension of driver
license for up to six months.
Person causes serious bodily injury to another when passing a stopped school bus
Class A misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $4,000 and/or up to one
year in jail.
Person causes serious bodily injury to another and has
previously been convicted of passing a school bus and
causing serious bodily injury
State jail felony punishable by 180 days to 2 years confinement and a possible
fine of up to $10,000.
Yield the Right-of-Way to Pedestrians (Persons on Foot)
Avoid Turning a Car into a Deadly Weapon
You should always be on the lookout for individuals who are on foot (pedestrians) whether they have the right-of-way or
not. Drivers must give the right-of-way to pedestrians:
1. At an uncontrolled intersection (there are not any traffic signs or signals for the pedestrian to enter the crosswalk)
2. If the pedestrian has a WALK signal or
a. If there is not a pedestrian control signal, give the pedestrian the right-of-way on a green light.
b. If the light changes after the pedestrian has entered the crosswalk, still give the pedestrian the right-of-way.
Yield Here to Pedestrian Signs
The “Yield Here to Pedestrians” signs are used when yield lines are used in advance of a marked crosswalk that crosses an uncontrolled multi-lane approach.
In-Street and Overhead Pedestrian Crossing Signs
The “In-Street Pedestrian Crossing” signs or the “Overhead Pedestrian Crossing” signs may be used to
remind road users of laws regarding right-of-way at a non-signalized pedestrian crosswalk.
The “In-Street Pedestrian Crossing” signs are placed in the road at the crosswalk location on the center line, on a lane line,
or on a median island. The “In-Street Pedestrian Crossing” signs will not be posted on the left- or right-hand side of the road.
The “Overhead Pedestrian Crossing” signs are placed over the roadway at the crosswalk.
Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons
A pedestrian hybrid beacon is a special type of hybrid beacon used with signs and pavement markings to warn and control
traffic at locations where pedestrians enter or cross a street or highway. Pedestrian hybrid beacons are only installed at a
marked crosswalk.
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Chapter 4: Right-of-Way
Texas Driver Handbook
What Drivers See
What Pedestrians See
Dark
Push the button.
Flashing Yellow
Steady Yellow
Steady Red
Start crossing.
Alternating Flashing Red
Stop. Then go if clear.
Flashing
Continue crossing.
Dark
In-Roadway Lights
In-roadway lights are special types of highway traffic signals installed in the roadway surface to warn roadway users
they are approaching a condition on or near the road they may not see or which might require them to slow down or come
to a stop. Examples of when in-roadway lights are used include situations involving pedestrian crossings such as school
crosswalks, marked crosswalks on uncontrolled approaches, or in advance of roundabouts.
Image source: Some images in this chapter are courtesy of The MUTCD, 2009 Edition, published by FHWA at mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/pdfs/2009/pdf_index.htm
26
Chapter 5: Signals, Signs, and Markers
Texas Driver Handbook
Chapter 5: Signals, Signs, and Markers
Traffic Signals
Traffic signals help provide for the orderly movement of traffic. Drivers must obey these signals except when a law
enforcement officer is directing traffic. You must obey a law enforcement officer at all times even if he/she is telling you
to do something which is ordinarily considered against the law.
Steady Red Light (Stop)
Stop before entering the crosswalk or intersection. You may turn right unless prohibited by law. You
may also turn left if both streets are one way, unless prohibited by law. You must yield to all pedestrians and other traffic lawfully using the intersection.
A Flashing Red Light
Stop completely before entering the crosswalk or intersection then proceed when you can do so safely.
Vehicles on the intersecting road may not have to stop.
Steady Yellow Light (Caution)
A steady yellow light warns drivers to use caution and to alert them a red light is coming up. You must STOP
before entering the nearest crosswalk at the intersection if you can do so safely. If a stop cannot be made
safely, then you may proceed cautiously through the intersection before the light changes to red.
A Flashing Yellow Light
A flashing yellow light warns drivers to slow down and proceed with caution.
A Flashing Yellow Arrow For Left-Turns
A flashing yellow arrow allows a driver to turn left but the driver must yield the right-of-way to
oncoming traffic.
Steady Green Light (Go)
A steady green light means the driver can proceed on a green light if it is safe to do so. You may drive
straight ahead or turn unless prohibited by another sign or signal. Watch for cars and pedestrians in
the intersection. Be aware of careless drivers who may race across the intersection to beat a red light.
Green Arrow Displayed at the Same Time as a Red Light
A green arrow displayed at the same time as a red light means the driver can proceed carefully in the
direction of the arrow after yielding the right-of-way to other vehicles and pedestrians.
Left Turn on Green
You can turn left on a green light. However, you must yield the right-of-way if traffic is approaching from
the opposite direction.
Traffic Signs
Traffic signs can help you to be a better driver. Traffic signs help because they:
1. Warn of hazards ahead that would be difficult to see
2. Guide drivers to their destination by identifying the route
3. Inform of local regulations and practices
4. Regulate the speed and movement of traffic
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Chapter 5: Signals, Signs, and Markers
Texas Driver Handbook
The Standard Colors table shows colors commonly used on road signs and explains what each color means.
Table 21: Standard Colors
Color
Description
Red: Stop or prohibited
Green: Indicated movements permitted, direction guidance
Blue: Motorist services guidance
Yellow: General warning
Black: Regulation
White: Regulation
Orange: Construction and maintenance warning
Orange (Retroreflective): Used on various types of signs
Brown: Public recreation and scenic guidance
Know these signs by their shape so you will know what to do when you are approaching from a distance.
Table 22: Signs by Shape
Shape
Description
Octagon: Exclusively for stop signs
Horizontal Rectangle: Generally for guide signs
Equilateral Triangle: Exclusively for yield signs
Pennant: Advance warning of no pass zones
Diamond: Exclusively to warn of existing or possible hazards on roads
or adjacent areas.
Vertical Rectangle: Generally for regulatory signs.
Pentagon: School advance and school crossing signs.
Round: Railroad advance warning signs.
Warning Signs
Warning signs alert drivers to conditions that are immediately ahead and tell them what to look for. There may be road
hazards, changes in direction, or some other situation you should know about. Not only must warning signs be observed
for safety reasons but to disregard them may be a traffic violation.
When you encounter a warning sign:
1. Pay attention
2. Follow instructions
3. Reduce speed to at least the posted speed signs
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Chapter 5: Signals, Signs, and Markers
Texas Driver Handbook
The following table provides examples of common warning signs.
Table 23: Warning Signs
Sign
Description
Sign
Description
Warns of a traffic control signal
ahead.
Road ahead makes a sharp turn in
the direction of the arrow (right).
Slow down, keep right, and do not
pass.
Height of underpass from road
surface is shown. Do not try to enter
if your load is higher than the figure
shown on the sign.
There is a winding road ahead.
Drive slowly and carefully, and do
not pass.
Advises you are approaching a section of highway where the opposing
flows of traffic are separated by a
median island.
The divided highway you are traveling ends ahead. Be careful as you
approach the point where two-way
traffic begins again.
You are approaching a point where
two roads come together, but
you are not required to merge, an
additional lane begins. Watch for
traffic in the new lane.
Slow down on wet road. Do not
suddenly turn, speed up, or stop.
The road curves one way (right)
and then the other way (left). Slow
down, keep right and do not pass.
You should drive in the right-hand
lane and expect oncoming traffic in
the left hand lane.
Another road enters the road you
are traveling on from the direction
shown. Watch for traffic from that
direction.
Road ahead makes a gradual curve
in the direction of the arrow (right).
Slow down, keep right, and do not
pass.
Slow down, the road surface ahead
is in poor condition.
Cross road ahead; slow down and
watch for cross traffic ahead. Look
carefully in all directions for traffic.
Cross traffic.
Gives advance notice of a reduction
in the number of lanes of pavement
ahead.
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Chapter 5: Signals, Signs, and Markers
Texas Driver Handbook
Table 23: Warning Signs (Continued)
Sign
30
Description
Sign
Description
T-Intersection.
You are approaching a “T” intersection and must turn left or right. Be
prepared to yield the right-of-way at
the intersection if necessary.
Y-Intersection or side road traffic to
the right.
There is a low place in the road.
Slow down in order to avoid losing
control of your vehicle or an uncomfortable jolt.
You are approaching a point where
other traffic lanes come together
with the one you are in. Watch for
traffic from that direction.
Use extreme caution to avoid
running off the paved portion of
the highway, because the dirt on
the side of the pavement is soft and
may cause you to lose control of
the car.
You are near an area where a large
number of pedestrians cross the
street. Slow down and watch for
people crossing the street on foot.
The bridge ahead is not as wide
as the road. Slow down and use
caution.
You are near a school. Slow down,
and prepare to stop suddenly if
necessary. Watch for children.
Two roads cross. Slow down, look
to the right and to the left for other
traffic, and be prepared to stop.
The surface of the road is covered
with loose gravel. Go slow enough
to keep complete control of your
vehicle. Do not apply brakes suddenly or make sharp turns.
The road ahead makes a sharp turn
to the right and then a sharp turn to
the left. Slow down, keep right, and
do not pass.
Mounted in front of an obstruction
which is close to the edge of the
road, such as culverts, or center
piers on divided highways.
Warns of hazardous condition on
bridge caused by ice. This sign will
be displayed continuously during
winter time periods. Drivers should
slow down and avoid applying their
brakes if icy conditions exist.
Mounted immediately in front of an
obstruction or at short changes in
road alignment.
Used to indicate the alignment of
the road as an aid to night driving.
Chapter 5: Signals, Signs, and Markers
Texas Driver Handbook
Table 23: Warning Signs (Continued)
Sign
Description
Sign
Description
Indicates traffic is permitted to pass
on either side of a traffic island or
an obstruction.
You are approaching a downgrade;
all drivers approach with caution.
It may be necessary to use a lower
gear to slow your vehicle.
This sign is used to mark the ends of
the side rails of narrow bridges and
other obstructions so they may be
easily seen.
The sign will have yellow lights
flashing (top and bottom) when the
freeway ramp ahead is metered.
The ramp meter (red or green)
directs motorists when to enter the
freeway.
Slow your speed and watch for
trucks entering or crossing the
highway.
There is a sudden high place in the
road ahead. Slow down in order to
avoid losing control of your vehicle
or an uncomfortable jolt.
The pavement ahead narrows;
reduce speed. Room for two cars to
pass but with caution.
The road ahead curves sharply. Slow
down, keep right, and do not pass.
The hard-surfaced pavement
changes to an earth road or lowtype surface. Slow down.
The lane ends ahead. If you are
driving in the right lane, you should
merge into the left.
There is a significant drop from the
pavement edge to the shoulder. If
you must leave the pavement, slow
down and steer firmly.
Be prepared for a stop sign ahead.
The pavement has been grooved
to lessen the possibility of slippery
pavement in wet weather. Motorcyclists should use caution.
Slow your speed and watch for
individuals who may be disabled or
who may be crossing the road in a
wheelchair.
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Chapter 5: Signals, Signs, and Markers
Texas Driver Handbook
Regulatory and Warning Signs
Regulatory signs tell us what we must do. Drivers are required to obey all regulatory signs in the same manner as traffic
laws. These signs are one way that will help to protect your safety. The following table provides examples of common
regulatory and warning signs.
Table 24: Regulatory and Warning Signs
Sign
32
Description
Sign
Description
If you wish to turn at an intersection where
this sign is posted, do so only in the direction indicated by the arrow.
Stop: A red stop sign with white letters
or a yellow sign with black letters. Stop
before the crosswalk, intersection, or
stop sign. Do not block the pedestrian
crosswalk. A stop sign means a car must
come to a complete stop. Slowing down is
not adequate.
High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Preferential
Lane: Buses and vehicles used for carpools
may use this lane only between the hours
of 6 a.m. to 9 a.m., Monday through
Friday.
Advisory Speed Sign: This sign gives the
highest speed which you can safely travel
around the turn ahead.
Do Not Cross Yellow Lines: The distance
you can see ahead is so limited that passing another vehicle is hazardous and you
may not pass.
Do not pass other vehicles.
This sign indicates two lanes of traffic are
permitted to turn left. The traffic in the left
lane must turn left, traffic in the other lane
has a choice.
Stay in the right-hand lane if you are driving slower than other vehicles on the road.
Do not park, stop, or allow your vehicle to
stand idling in a parking space reserved
for disabled individuals unless your vehicle
has a disabled license plate or windshield
identification card.
Indicates the speed at which the exit ramp
from a highway may be traveled safely.
Turning left at an intersection where this
sign is posted is prohibited.
This sign tells you the maximum speed (in
mph) you are permitted to travel. Sign also
indicates the maximum speeds permitted
on the road for day time and nighttime.
Making a U-turn at an intersection where
this sign is posted is prohibited.
Trucks are prohibited from using or entering the street or road where this sign is
displayed.
If you see this sign facing you, you are
driving the wrong way on a one-way street
and you are directly opposing the flow of
traffic.
Drive to the right of this sign. This sign is
used in advance of islands and medians.
Chapter 5: Signals, Signs, and Markers
Texas Driver Handbook
Table 24: Regulatory and Warning Signs
Sign
Description
The road or street ahead is for one-way
traffic traveling in the opposite direction.
You must not drive into it in the direction
you are going.
This signs tells you the road you are on
joins with another road ahead. You should
slow down or stop if necessary so you can
yield the right-of-way to vehicles on the
other road.
School Zone: The speed shown is in effect
when the yellow light is flashing. Be
extremely careful for school children.
Sign
Description
This sign marks a place where you may
cross over to the other side of the divided
highway.
The use of a wireless communication
device is prohibited in the school zone.
These signs are added to a stop sign
advising that all approaching traffic to this
intersection must stop.
Red light photo enforced.
On roadways with more than one lane
with vehicles traveling in the same direction and this sign is present, slower traffic
should travel in a lane other than the
farthest left lane. The farthest left lane is
for passing only.
Drivers should not change lanes or turn
across the double white lines.
The center lane is only used for vehicles
turning left, not for passing or overtaking.
The only time a vehicle should enter the
center lane is at a point where the vehicle
will have time to slow down or stop to make
a safe left turn. This lane should never be
used for passing or as a through traffic lane.
Oncoming traffic must stop for vehicles
at an intersection. Vehicles turning at a
protected light should use caution.
A green signal will indicate when you may
turn left.
This sign reminds drivers that the shoulder
of the road should be used only by vehicles
required to stop because of mechanical
breakdown, tire trouble, lack of fuel, or
other emergencies.
Vehicles driving in the right lane must turn
right at the next intersection unless the
sign indicates a different turning point.
The road ahead is not open to any traffic.
Look for a detour or other route.
Advisory Speed Sign: This sign gives the
highest speed at which you can safely
travel around the turn ahead.
Instructs drivers that all traffic on the same
roadway must merge into one lane.
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Chapter 5: Signals, Signs, and Markers
Texas Driver Handbook
Guide Signs
Guide signs are especially helpful when you are not in a familiar area. Guide signs tell you what road you’re on, how to get
where you want to go, and provide information making the trip more pleasant and interesting. The table below provides
examples of common guide signs.
Table 25: Guide Signs
Sign
Description
Sign
Description
The only place where you may lawfully
throw your litter on the highway is in a
litter barrel. This sign advises that such a
barrel is one mile ahead. Litter barrels are
also found at all rest/picnic areas.
The lane that has this sign above it exits
ahead.
Texas Route Marker signs tell you what
road you are on. Plan your trip and know
which road you want to take.
This sign tells you what road you are on.
It is a short state highway in a city or
urban area.
Interstate Route Marker signs tell you
what road you are on. Plan your trip and
know which roads you want to take.
Indicates an officially designated highway
that branches off the regularly numbered
highway and goes through the business
portion of the city.
These signs are usually mounted above
the road. The arrows indicate the lane
or lanes to be used to follow a particular
highway route.
Travel information: This sign tells you
which way to go and how far you must
travel.
Mileposts provide a means of identifying
the location of crashes, breakdowns, or
other emergencies. Mileposts are erected
every mile on interstate highways starting
at the state line.
Lane-use control signals are overhead
signals indicating if a motorists should
drive in a specific lane. If a red X appears
above a lane, a driver should not drive
in that lane. A steady yellow X means
a driver should prepare to safely vacate
the lane over which the signal is located
because a lane control change is being
made. A steady downward green arrow
means a driver is permitted to drive in
the lane over which the arrow signal is
located. Lane-use control signals can be
used on streets or highways.
Railroad Warning Signs
Railroad Crossing
This sign means you are within a few hundred feet of a railroad crossing. Slow down and be prepared to stop.
If you see a train coming, STOP. Never try to beat a train.
Railroad Crossbuck
Railroad crossbuck signs are posted at every railroad, highway, road, or street grade crossing and show the
location of the train tracks. If more than one track is to be crossed, the sign will show the number of tracks.
Always slow down, look, listen, and be prepared to yield the right-of-way to an approaching train.
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Chapter 5: Signals, Signs, and Markers
Texas Driver Handbook
Gate and Flashing Light
IL
RA
C
R
O
SS
IN
G
AD
RO
Stop when the lights begin to flash before the gate lowers across your side of the road.
Remain stopped until the gates are raised and the lights stop flashing.
At railroad crossings stop within 15 feet to 50 feet of the nearest rail when:
1. You are directed to do so by a flag person
2. There are flashing red lights or gongs sounding
3. There is any warning device telling you a train is coming
Pavement Markings
Pavement markings help you just like signs and signals. They are used to warn and direct drivers and to regulate traffic.
Two-Lane Rural Road with Two-Way Traffic
Keep to the right of the yellow center line. You may cross a broken line when passing another vehicle or when the right half
of the road is closed. Do not cross the line if it is not safe.
Three Lane One-Way Roads
On a one-way road when each lane is marked with a broken white line you may drive in any lane. When turning from a
one-way road, move into the proper lane well in advance of your turn.
Left Turn Lane Only
The only time a vehicle should enter the center lane is at a point where the vehicle will have time to slow down or stop in
order to make a safe left turn maneuver.
S pe cia
:
l No te
ne
n ter la
Th e ce n e ver be
ld
shou r passin g
o
used f througha
s
a
r
o
la n e.
tra ff ic
Left Turn Lane Only
Multi-lane Highway (Four or More Lanes)
Do not cross the double yellow line to pass. Stay in your lane as much as possible. If you are driving slower, keep in the
right-hand lane.
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Chapter 5: Signals, Signs, and Markers
Texas Driver Handbook
Solid and Broken Lines
A solid yellow line on your side of the road marks a “no-passing zone.”
Crosswalks
White crosswalk lines are painted across a road to indicate pedestrian crossing areas. Pedestrians should use these areas
when crossing the road. At intersections where stop lines are missing, you must stop before the crosswalk when required
to stop by traffic signs, traffic signals, or pedestrians.
White Stop Lines
White stop lines are painted across the pavement lanes at traffic signs or signals. Where these lines are present, stop behind
the stop line.
Solid White Lines
Solid white lines are used for pavement edge lines, shoulder markings, channelizing, transitions, and lane use control.
Crossing a solid white line should be avoided if possible. The solid yellow line on the left edge of the road is a guide for
drivers to indicate driving to the left of the yellow line is prohibited. This type of yellow line can be found on interstate
highways.
Crossing is prohibited where there is a pavement marking of double solid white lines.
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Chapter 5: Signals, Signs, and Markers
Texas Driver Handbook
Barrels
Barrels that are engineered to act as an impact cushion reduce the seriousness of crashes. These barrels are usually installed in front of a solid obstacle and in an area of high crash frequency.
Hearing Impaired
If you see this flag, slow down, the bicycle operator may have impaired hearing. This sign may also be displayed on vehicles to alert others the driver may be hearing impaired.
Construction and Maintenance Devices
Various traffic control devices are used in construction and maintenance work areas to direct drivers or pedestrians
:
safely through the work zone and to provide for the safety of the workers.
l No te
S pe cia
ouble
d
s
e
in
The most commonly used traffic control devices are signs, barricades, drums, cones, tubes, flashing arrow Tra ffic ftions
la
for vio ur in
panels, and flag individuals. Orange is the basic color for these devices.
n es
a t o cc
o
th
ction z
con stru orkers a re
w
e
r
e
wh
t.
p r e se n
When you are in a construction and maintenance work area, be prepared:
1. To slow down or stop as you approach workers and equipment
2. To change lanes
3. For unexpected movements of works and equipment
Construction and Maintenance Signs
Construction and maintenance signs are used to alert drivers of unusual or potentially dangerous conditions in or near
work areas. Most signs in work areas are diamond shaped, but a few are rectangular.
Table 26: Construction and Maintenance Signs
Sign
Sign
Sign
Sign
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Chapter 5: Signals, Signs, and Markers
Texas Driver Handbook
Channelizing Devices
Barricades, vertical panels, drums, cones, and tubes are the most commonly used devices to alert drivers of unusual or
potentially dangerous conditions in highway and street work areas, and to guide drivers safely through the work zone. At
night channelizing devices are often equipped with flashing or steady burn lights.
When you encounter any type of channelizing device:
1. Slow down and prepare to change lanes when it is safe to do so.
2. Be prepared for drivers who wait until the last second to move to the open lane.
3. Maintain reduced speed until you clear the construction area. There should be a sign indicating you are leaving the
construction area.
4. Return to the normal driving lane only after checking traffic behind you.
Passing Traffic
The diagonal stripes on the barricade or vertical panel guide the driver towards the direction to where the traffic is to pass.
Pass to the Right
Stripes sloping downward to the right means the driver should bear to the right.
Pass to the Left
Stripes sloping downward to the left means the driver should bear to the left.
Flashing Arrow Panels
Large flashing or sequencing arrow panels may be used in work zones day and night to
guide drivers into certain traffic lanes and to inform them part of the road or street ahead
is closed.
Flag Person
A flag person is often provided in roadway work zones to stop, slow, or guide traffic safely through the area. A flag person
wears an orange vest, shirt, or jacket and uses stop/slow paddles or red flags to direct traffic through work zones.
1. A flag person is used in cases of extreme hazard.
2. A flag person’s instructions must be obeyed.
3. When instructed to stop, do so in your lane, do not veer right or left.
4. Do not attempt to go forward until the flag person instructs you to do so.
5. Proceed with caution, expect the unexpected.
6. Always be on the lookout for oncoming vehicles in your lane of traffic.
STOP
SLOW
Automated Flagger Assistance Device (AFAD)
An automated flagger assistance device (AFAD) is used to control road users through temporary traffic zones. An AFAD
is designed to be remotely operated, allowing a flag person to be positioned out of the lane of traffic.
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Chapter 5: Signals, Signs, and Markers
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Obey Warning Signs and Barricades
It is a violation to disobey the instructions, signals, warnings, or markings of a warning sign, or to drive around a barricade.
The offense is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of $1 to $200. Fines double in a construction or maintenance work zone
when workers are present.
The offense is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail when a warning
sign or barricade has been placed at a location where water is over any portion of a road, street, or highway.
REAR
RED TAIL LIGHT
HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS
(FLASHERS) RED OR AMBER
RED REFLECTOR
SLOW MOVING VEHICLE EMBLEM
Slow-Moving Vehicle Emblem
This emblem is now a requirement for all slow-moving vehicles. Slow moving vehicles are those designed to operate at a
maximum speed of 25 mph or less, and the term includes all vehicles, farm and other machinery, and road machinery being
drawn by animals or by slow moving motor vehicles.
a. The use of this emblem is prohibited on anything other than a slow-moving vehicle. It must not be used on other vehicles or on stationary objects.
b. Exceptions. The following do not need the special emblem:
1) A vehicle being used in actual construction work while traveling within the limits of a construction area marked as
required by the Texas Transportation Commission;
2) An implement or machinery being towed by a slow-moving vehicle bearing an emblem if this emblem remains
visible.
Image source: Some images in this chapter are courtesy of The MUTCD, 2009 Edition, published by FHWA at mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/pdfs/2009/pdf_index.htm
39
Chapter 6: Signaling, Passing, and Turning
Texas Driver Handbook
Chapter 6: Signaling, Passing, and Turning
Signaling
A good driver always lets others know if he/she is going to turn or stop. Signaling helps others plan ahead. A surprise move
often results in a crash. Be alert. Watch and give signals.
Always signal when you are going to:
1. Change lanes
2. Make a turn
3. Pull away from a parking space parallel to the curb
4. Slow down or stop
How to Signal
You may use either signal lights or hand and arm signals. Make sure your signals can be easily seen by others. Extend your
hand and arm well out of the car window and signal in plenty of time.
During non-daylight hours, hand and arm signals are usually not visible except in well-lighted areas. Be sure your signal
lights are working properly. When signaling a stop, pump your brakes a few times to attract attention.
Signal continuously for at least 100 feet before you turn or stop. Be sure to turn off your signal light after you use it. Your
unintended signal still means “turn” to other drivers.
Left Turn
Right Turn
Stop or Slow Down
Passing
Keep to the Right
Never drive on the left side of the road when:
1. Pavement markings prohibit driving on the left (a “No Passing Zone”)
2. There are two or more traffic lanes in each direction
3. Within 100 feet of or crossing an intersection or railroad crossing
4. On a hill, curve, or any other place where vision is limited
5. Within 100 feet of a bridge, viaduct, or tunnel
Always keep to the right side of the road except when:
1. Passing another vehicle on a two- or three-lane street
2. Driving on a one-way street
3. The right side of the road is blocked
Basic Safety Rules When You Are Passing
It is not always safe to pass. Be patient and wait until the time is right. Crashes resulting from improper passing can
be deadly.
1. Make certain the way is clear.
2. Give the proper signal before changing lanes.
3. Tap your horn when necessary to avoid surprising the driver ahead.
4. Avoid cutting in too quickly if you must return to your original lane.
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Chapter 6: Signaling, Passing, and Turning
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How to Pass on a Two-Lane Road
1. Keep enough distance between you and the car in front of you so you can see ahead clearly. Check the rearview and
side mirrors. Turn your head and look back; someone may be passing you. Signal left.
2. Check well ahead for a “No Passing Zone” and for oncoming cars. Be sure you have enough time and space to overtake
the car ahead and return to the right lane before an approaching car comes within 200 feet of you.
3. Tap your horn when necessary to alert the driver ahead.
4. Pass on the left and do not return to the right lane until you have safely cleared the overtaken vehicle. Wait until you
can see the car you have just passed in your rearview mirror before returning to the right lane.
5. Signal right turn to return to the right lane. Be sure to turn your signal off after you have completed the lane change.
Passing on the Right
In Texas, you can pass on the right only when conditions permit you to do so safely.
1. The road is clear of parked vehicles or other things and is wide enough for two or more lanes in each direction.
2. You are on a one-way road.
3. You may pass on a paved shoulder when the vehicle you are passing is slowing or stopped on the main traveled portion
of the highway, disabled, or preparing to make a left turn.
Do not pass on the right by driving off the paved portion of the highway.
When You are Passed
1. Do not increase your speed.
2. Keep in your lane.
3. When being passed on the left and the lanes are not marked, move as far to the right as you safely can.
4. Make it as safe and easy as you can for the other driver to pass you.
Blind Spot Driving
Don’t drive in another driver’s blind spot. Either pass the other driver or drop back. When you pass a car, get through the
blind spot as quickly as you can. Approach cautiously but once you are alongside the other driver, speed up and get by
quickly.
Blind Spot
Blind Spot
Turning
Turning a corner appears to be a simple operation. However, much confusion in traffic and many crashes are caused by
drivers who do not turn correctly.
Study the diagrams showing the correct method of making right and left turns. There are seven steps in making a good
turn.
1. Decide before you get to the turning point. Never make a last minute turn; it’s dangerous.
2. Look behind and to both sides to see where other vehicles are before you change lanes.
3. Move into the proper lane as soon as possible. The faster the traffic is moving, the sooner you should move into the
proper lane. If you cannot get into the proper lane within one-half block before turning, do not turn, continue straight
ahead.
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Chapter 6: Signaling, Passing, and Turning
Texas Driver Handbook
4. Give the proper turn signal at least 100 feet before you turn. If using a hand signal, hold the signal until you are close
enough to the intersection for others to know your intention. Do not hold the signal while making the turn, you need
both hands on the wheel.
5. Slow down to a reasonable turning speed. Don’t use the brake or clutch while turning.
6. Make the turn correctly. This will be easy if you are in the proper lane and proceeding slowly enough at the time you
begin to turn.
7. Finish the turn in the proper lane.
How to Make a Right Turn
1. Signal for a lane change well ahead of the turning point. When it is safe, move your vehicle to the far right lane.
2. Use your right turn signal and slow down at least 100 feet from the corner.
3. Look both ways before starting to turn.
4. Keep as close as possible to the right edge of the road.
5. Turn using both hands on the wheel.
Incorrect right turn
How to Make a Left Turn
1. Well ahead of the turning point, signal for a lane change. When it is safe, move close to the center lane.
2. Use the left turn signal and slow down at least 100 feet from the corner.
3. Look in all directions before starting to turn. Stay to the right of the center line as you enter the intersection. Yield the
right-of-way to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction.
4. To complete a left turn you should be in the left portion of the lane you are turning into but still to the right of the
center line.
5. Once you have completed your left turn, you may signal and change lanes if necessary.
Making a Left Turn From a One-Way Into a Two-Way Street
If you are turning left from a one-way street you should turn from the left lane.
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Chapter 6: Signaling, Passing, and Turning
Texas Driver Handbook
Making a Left Turn From a Two-Way Into a One-Way Street
If you are turning left onto a one-way street, enter the street in the left lane.
Other Turning Procedures
Watch for pavement markings and signs which:
1. Permit turning right or left from or into two or more traffic lanes
2. Give other special turning or lane information
43
Chapter 7: Parking, Stopping, or Standing
Texas Driver Handbook
Chapter 7: Parking, Stopping, or Standing
Not all crashes happen while vehicles are being driven. An improperly parked vehicle may also cause a crash. When you
leave your vehicle, set the parking brake, stop the motor, and remove the key. Be sure to check over your shoulder for any
oncoming traffic before opening your car door.
Do Not Park, Stop, or Stand a Vehicle
Do not park, stop, or allow a vehicle to stand idling:
1. On the road side of any vehicle stopped or parked at the edge or curb of a street
2. On a sidewalk or crosswalk
3. Within an intersection
4. Between a safety zone and adjacent curb or within 30 feet of a place on the curb immediately opposite the end of a
safety zone
5. Alongside or opposite of any street excavation or obstruction when stopping, standing, or parking would obstruct
traffic
6. On a bridge or other elevated structure on a highway or within a highway tunnel
7. On any railroad track
8. At any place where an official sign prohibits stopping
Do Not Park or Stand a Vehicle
Whether occupied or not, do not park or allow a vehicle to stand idling:
1. In front of a public or private driveway
2. Within 15 feet of a fire hydrant
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3. Within 20 feet of a crosswalk at an intersection
4. Within 30 feet upon the approach to any flashing signal, stop sign, yield sign, or other traffic control signal located at
the side of a road
5. Within 20 feet of the driveway entrance to any fire station and on the side of a street opposite the entrance to any fire
station within 75 feet of entrance
6. At any place where an official sign prohibits parking or standing
Do Not Park a Vehicle
Do not park a vehicle, occupied or not, within 50 feet of the nearest rail of a railroad crossing.
Parking, Stopping, or Standing on a Highway Outside an Urban Area
Never park or leave a vehicle to stand idling on the paved part of any highway outside of a business or residential district
when you can park off the road. If you cannot park off the road:
1. Leave plenty of room for others to pass
2. Be sure your vehicle can be seen for at least 200 feet from each direction
3. If at night, use your parking lights or leave your headlights on dim
4. A person may stop, stand, or park a bicycle on a sidewalk if the bicycle does not impede the normal and reasonable
movement of pedestrian or other traffic on the sidewalk.
Disabled Parking
It is a violation for a person to park, stand, or stop a vehicle in a parking space designated as disabled parking. Illegally
parking in a space reserved for individuals with disabilities is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of $500 to $750 for the
first offense. This fine increases with additional offenses up to $1,250 for five or more offenses. Additional offenses also
include community service.
44
:
l No te
Chapter 7: Parking, Stopping, or Standing
Texas Driver Handbook
Texas law specifically states:
1. You may not park in a disabled parking space unless the vehicle has a disabled license plate or state issued removable
windshield identification card.
2. You may not use a disabled parking windshield identification card unless transporting the disabled person to whom
it was issued.
3. You may not lend your windshield identification card to someone else.
4. You may not block an access or curb ramp.
5. You may not make, sell, possess, or display a counterfeit disabled parking windshield identification card, or alter a
disabled parking windshield identification card.
Certain municipalities also prohibit stopping or standing in a disabled parking space unless a disabled parking windshield
identification card is visible or the vehicle has a disabled license plate.
Do not park in striped areas adjacent to handicap parking spaces or in a striped area in front of an entrance to a business
adjacent to a disabled parking space. Striped areas are for wheelchair lifts.
Unattended Motor Vehicle
It is unlawful for any person in charge of a motor vehicle to permit the car to stand idling unattended without stopping the
engine, locking the ignition, removing the key from the ignition, and effectively setting the brake; and when standing on
any grade, without turning the front wheels to the curb or side of the road.
Parallel Parking
1. Choose a space large enough for your car to fit. Signal then stop even with the front of the car about two feet out
from the space. To alert drivers who may be behind you be sure to signal before you pass the spot you want to parallel
park in.
2. Make sure you will not interfere with oncoming traffic then turn your front wheels all the way to the right and back
slowly toward the curb.
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or edge
45
Chapter 7: Parking, Stopping, or Standing
Texas Driver Handbook
3. When your front seat is opposite the rear bumper of the car ahead, turn your steering wheel all the way to the left. Back
slowly to the car behind you without touching it. You should be about six inches from the curb. Don’t park more than
18 inches from the curb or edge of the road.
4. Straighten your front wheels and pull into the final parking position. Center your car in space.
Parking on Hills
Turn wheels to curb
Turn back of wheels
to curb
Turn wheels to right
no curb
Leaving a Parking Space
Use care when backing up. Children often play between parked cars. Look back before and while you’re backing up. Be
sure to use your signal to notify other drivers you are leaving your current parking spot.
Watch for children in residential areas
Coasting
It is illegal to coast on a downgrade with the gears or transmission in neutral.
46
Chapter 8: Speed and Speed Limits
Texas Driver Handbook
Chapter 8: Speed and Speed Limits
Speed
Generally, you should drive at the same speed as the main stream of traffic and always be aware of
how fast you are traveling. You must always obey the speed limit but a good driver does even more.
1. A good driver always keeps a safe distance from the car in front of him/her. The faster you drive
the greater the distance you should keep from the car ahead of you. For speeds under 30 mph, the
minimum time with good road conditions is 2 seconds. For speeds above 30 mph, maintain 4 seconds
(more for adverse conditions) of following time. Developing a four-second following interval is the
best practice for a beginning or less experienced driver.
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follow in
Approximate Stopping Distances
It takes the average person 1-1/2 seconds to think, react and apply the brakes. The
following table shows how far you travel in that 1-1/2 seconds, plus how many feet you
travel while skidding to stop.
Going 20
Going 30
Going 40
Going 50
Going 60
63 Feet to Stop
109 Feet to Stop
164 Feet to Stop
229 Feet to Stop
303 Feet to Stop
Going 70
387 Feet to Stop
And this is with good brakes and tires on dry level pavement
2. A good driver always adjusts his/her speed and following distance according to his/her physical condition and the
condition of the vehicle. If you are tired or not feeling well, do not drive. Never force yourself to drive.
3. A good driver knows when to slow down and increase the following distance.
a. Slow down and increase the following distance when the road is wet. Many drivers find out too late what a small
amount of rain can do. Roads become slippery when wet, making your car harder to control. Slow down and make
sure you have complete control of the situation at all times.
b. Slow down and increase the following distance when the road is crowded.
c. Slow down and increase the following distance when your vision is limited. You should always be able to stop within the distance you can see ahead of your car. In the dark or in bad weather, do not over-drive your range of vision.
Speed Limits
Drivers are required to obey posted minimum and maximum speed limits. These limits are designed to provide for the
orderly flow of traffic under normal driving conditions. During periods of heavy traffic, bad weather, low visibility, or
other poor driving conditions, speed and following distance must be adjusted to avoid crashes.
The Speed Limits table shows the maximum speed limits for all vehicles under different conditions. Drivers must also
be aware cities and counties have the authority to change these limits. Entities that establish or alter a speed limit must
establish the same speed limit for daytime and nighttime.
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Chapter 8: Speed and Speed Limits
Texas Driver Handbook
Table 27: Speed Limits
Type of Roadway
Speed
(MPH)
Urban District
30
Alley
15
Beaches and County Roads adjacent to a public beach (if declared by the commissioners court of the county)
15
Highway numbered by Texas or the U.S. outside an urban district including Farm to Market and Ranch to Market roads
Passenger cars, motorcycles, light truck, passenger car or light truck towing a trailer or semi-trailer, truck or truck-tractor, truck or
truck-tractor towing a trailer or semi-trailer, buses, school activity bus.
70
School Buses which have passed a commercial vehicle inspection.
60
Highway not numbered by Texas or the U.S. and outside an urban district
Passenger cars, motorcycles, light truck, passenger car or light truck towing a trailer or semi-trailer, truck or truck-tractor, truck or
truck-tractor towing a trailer or semi-trailer, buses, school activity bus.
60
School buses that have not passed a commercial vehicle inspection or are traveling on a highway not numbered by Texas or the U.S.
50
After meeting certain requirements, the Texas Transportation Commission has the authority to raise the speed limit to
75 mph on parts of the state highway system if the Commission determines the speed limit is a reasonable and safe speed
for that section of the highway. The Texas Transportation Commission also has the authority, after meeting certain requirements, to raise the speed limit to not more than 85 mph on a part of the highway if that part is designed to accommodate
travel at that speed and the Commission determines that speed is reasonable and safe.
The Texas Transportation Commission may also establish a speed limit of 80 mph on a part of IH-10 or IH-20 in Crockett,
Culberson, Hudspeth, Jeff Davis, Kerr, Kimble, Pecos, Reeves, Sutton, or Ward County if the Commission determines
80 mph is a reasonable and safe speed for that section of the highway.
Slow Down or Move Over
If an emergency medical vehicle, law enforcement vehicle, fire truck, tow truck, or a Texas Department of Transportation
vehicle (TxDOT) is stopped on the road with its lights activated (the lights are on or flashing), then the driver is required:
1. To reduce his/her speed to 20 mph below the speed limit; or
2. Move out of the lane closest to the emergency medical vehicle, law enforcement vehicle, fire truck, tow truck or a
TxDOT vehicle if the road has multiple lanes traveling in the same direction.
Street Racing
Street racing, also known as drag racing, is illegal and can result in serious injuries or fatalities. Illegal street racers put
other drivers at risk because races are typically held on public roads. Due to the high speeds, drivers are unable to react to
common road hazards or other driving situations, which often results in crashes.
Illegal street racing also causes unnecessary property damage, including extensive wear on roads (due to the high-powered
engines damaging asphalt), which requires costly repairs at the expense to the tax-payer.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2011 there were 9,944 speeding-related
fatalities nationwide, representing 30% of all motor vehicle fatalities in that year. Of these fatalities, 1,165 (11.7%) occurred
in Texas. In 2011, 13% of all speeding-related fatalities occurred on interstate highways.
A person may not participate in:
1. A race;
2. A vehicle speed competition or contest;
3. A drag race or acceleration contest;
4. A test of physical endurance of the operator of a vehicle; or
5. In connection with a drag race, an exhibition of vehicle speed or acceleration, or to make a speed record.
The criminal penalty for a conviction of Speed Racing ranges from a Class B misdemeanor to a second-degree felony.
48
Chapter 9: Some Special Driving Situations
Texas Driver Handbook
Chapter 9: Some Special Driving Situations
It is much more dangerous to drive during the night than during the day. We do not see as well as we do during daylight.
When taking a trip, drive during daylight hours - it’s safer. Also, never drive when you are sleepy.
Headlights
Slow down when driving at night and be sure you can stop within the distance lit by your headlights.
Lower your dim lights when:
1. Within 500 feet of an approaching vehicle
2. Following closely (within 300 feet) behind another vehicle
3. Driving on lighted roads
4. Driving in fog, heavy rain, sleet, snow, or dust
If you must park on an unlighted highway at night, leave your parking lights or low beam headlights on.
1. You must use your headlights beginning 30 minutes after sunset and ending 30 minutes before sunrise, or anytime
when individuals or vehicles cannot be seen clearly for at least 1,000 feet.
2. Avoid looking directly into the headlights of approaching vehicles; shift your eyes down to the lower right side of your
traffic lane.
3. Turn signals flashing only on one side should not be used on parked or disabled vehicles.
Highway Driving
Within the past few years, thousands of miles of super highways have been built. They are known as freeways, toll-roads,
throughways, turnpikes, and expressways. These roads are designed for maximum safety, but you must know how to use
them properly. In Texas, a highway is defined as “the width between the boundary lines of a publicly maintained way any
part of which is open to the public for vehicular travel”.
Before Using a Highway
Plan your trip in advance so you know your entrance, direction, and exit. Make sure you and your car are in good condition.
If you cannot or do not want to drive at or above the minimum speed limit, do not use the highway.
Entering the Highway
1. You must yield the right-of-way to vehicles already on the highway.
2. Enter the speed change lane, stay to the right, signal left, and when it is clear, increase your speed to merge with the
flow of traffic.
Speed up when entering the freeway
Driving on the Highway
Choose the Proper Lane
1. Use the right lane to drive at the minimum posted speed limit or below the normal flow of traffic.
2. Use the middle or left lane if you are traveling faster than other traffic.
3. If you plan to leave the freeway soon, change to the exit lane as soon as possible.
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Chapter 9: Some Special Driving Situations
Texas Driver Handbook
Observe Specific Instructions
Observe specific instructions indicating the lane you should drive in.
Once the Lane Has Been Chosen
1. Stay in the middle of your lane.
56
Metropolis
Utopia
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24
N ew p ort
EXIT 1 MIL E
2. Do not weave in and out of traffic.
3. Maintain a constant speed. Keep pace with the traffic. Don’t speed up and slow
down unnecessarily.
4. Stay at least two seconds behind the vehicle ahead of you. In bad weather, increase
the time to at least four seconds. Watch the cars ahead of you. Be prepared if one of
the cars ahead of you stops suddenly.
5. Adjust your speed to allow others to enter the highway safely.
6. Vehicles in any lane, except the right lane used for slower traffic, should be prepared to move to another lane to allow
faster traffic to pass.
Leaving the Highway
1. Move into the proper lane well in advance of the exit. The greater the amount of traffic the earlier you should move
into the proper lane. Exit signs are usually placed at least 1,000 yards ahead of the exit.
2. Slow down on the exit ramp so by the time you are off the highway, you are within the new, slower speed limit. Until
you become used to the new, slower speed, watch your speedometer.
Fight Highway Hypnosis
A condition of drowsiness or unawareness can be brought on by reduced activity and steady sounds of wind, engine, and
tire hum. This is known as highway hypnosis. All drivers should be aware of its danger and of the methods for fighting it.
1. Stop often. Even if you are feeling well you should stop at least every two hours or every 100 miles. Get out of your car
and walk around. Allow your muscles to relax.
2. Do not drive more than eight hours per day.
3. Keep shifting your eyes. Look at different objects; near and far, left and right. Read the road signs as you approach
them. Check your rearview mirror.
Highway Safety Tips
1. Keep a window open so there is always fresh air in the car to help keep you alert and awake.
2. On bright days, wear good sunglasses. Never wear sunglasses at night.
3. Stay out of another driver’s blind spot. Traveling where the driver ahead of you cannot see your vehicle can be dangerous. Stay behind or go around the other vehicle. Do not follow to the side.
4. Avoid using a cell phone while driving; use may cause distraction and driver inattention. If you must use a cell phone,
safely pull off the road or use a hands-free headset. If you are under 18 years of age it is illegal to use a cell phone while
driving even if it is a hands-free device except in the case of emergency.
Vehicle Breakdown
1. If you can’t get the car off the pavement, get everyone out of the car and off the road. Portable warning devices should
be used to warn oncoming traffic.
2. Move your car off the pavement to the side of the road. A car with a flat or blowout can be driven slowly off the road.
3. Turn on your emergency warning lights. If you do not have warning lights, use your taillights. At night, in addition to
your taillights, turn the lights on inside of the car.
4. Tie a white cloth to your radio antenna, door handle, or some other place where it may be easily seen. If you do not
have a white cloth, raise your hood.
Controlling a Car in Special Situations
There is one basic rule which applies in all driving situations, think before you act.
Steering Out of a Skid
An automobile skids when its tires lose their grip on the road surface. If the car starts to skid follow these safety tips.
1. Don’t jam on the brakes. Take your foot off the gas pedal (accelerator).
2. Turn your steering wheel in the direction of the skid. As you recover control, gently straighten the wheels.
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Chapter 9: Some Special Driving Situations
Texas Driver Handbook
3. Avoid a skid by slowing down when the road and weather conditions are poor. Also, check the tires. Poor tires are
dangerous. (In the illustration below, the direction of the skid is to the right.)
Steering out of a skid
Turn steering wheel in
direction of skid
Brake Failure
When brakes fail, do not panic. Remember your parking brake and shift to a lower gear. Apply your parking brake cautiously so you do not lock the brakes and throw your car into a skid.
Running Off the Pavement
If you run off the pavement:
• Do not hit the brakes suddenly and hard. Grip the steering wheel tightly and take your foot off the gas pedal.
• Use your brakes carefully and do not swing back onto the pavement. Wait until your speed is reduced, check the traffic
behind you, and then carefully drive back onto the pavement.
Flat Tire or Blowout
When the tires are cool, check the air pressure frequently. If you have a flat tire or a blowout:
• Do not slam on the brakes
• Take your foot off the gas and gently apply the brakes
• Steer straight ahead to a stop
Driving Down a Steep Hill
Use a low gear to help slow your vehicle. Never coast in neutral or with your foot on the clutch.
Winter Driving
Most drivers realize winter creates additional hazards, but many drivers don’t know what to do about it. Here are a few
precautions you should follow during winter.
Table 28: Winter Driving Safety Tips
Safety Tip
Explanation
Maintain a safe
interval
Increase the distance from the vehicle ahead of you according to the conditions of the pavement. Many rear-end
collisions occur on icy streets because drivers don’t leave space to stop. Snow tires will slide on ice or packed snow. To
keep safe you must keep your distance.
Reduce speed to
correspond with
conditions
There is no such thing as a “safe” speed range at which you may drive on snow or ice. You must be extremely cautious until you are able to determine how much traction you can expect from your tires. Avoid locking of brakes on
ice as it will cause a loss of steering and control. Every city block and every mile of highway may be different, depending upon sun or shade and the surface of the road.
Keep windows clear
Remove snow and ice before you drive, even if you’re just going to the corner drugstore. Make certain the windshield
wipers and defroster are working properly.
Watch for danger
spots ahead
There may be ice on bridges when the rest of the pavement is clear. Snow melts more slowly in shady areas. Take
precautions when approaching turns.
Get a feel for the
road
Start out very slowly. It is useless to burn the rubber off your tires by spinning the wheels. Test your brakes gently
after the car is in motion to determine how much traction you have. Start slowing down before you come to a turn.
Equip your vehicle
with chains or
snow tires
Chains are the most effective and should be used where ice and snow remain on the road. One word of caution,
neither chains nor snow tires will permit you to drive on slick pavement at normal speeds so don’t get a false feeling
of security.
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Chapter 9: Some Special Driving Situations
Texas Driver Handbook
Rotary Traffic Islands (Roundabouts)
Rotary traffic islands are also known as traffic circles or roundabouts. A driver moving around a rotary traffic island must
only drive to the right of the island.
Floods
Floods are one of the most common hazards in the U.S. Nearly half of all flash flood fatalities are vehicle-related.
These are the facts:
• Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control and possible stalling.
• Twelve inches of water will float many cars.
• Two feet of rushing water will carry away pick-up trucks, SUVs, and most other vehicles.
• Water across a road may hide a missing segment of roadbed or a missing bridge. Roads weaken under floodwater and
drivers should proceed cautiously after waters have receded since the road may collapse under the vehicle’s weight.
National Weather Service and Texas Division of Emergency Management officials say if your vehicle stalls in floodwater,
get out quickly and move to higher ground. Better yet, when there’s water on the road, Turn Around Don’t Drown. Saving
your life is as simple as choosing an alternate route.
For more information on Turn Around Don’t Drown, visit www.srh.weather.gov or on Federal Alliance for Safe Homes
(FLASH), visit www.flash.org.
Mailing Address: National Weather Service
Southern Region Headquarters
819 Taylor Street
Fort Worth, TX 76102
Source: The materials from Turn Around Don’t Drown were used with permission from the Southern Regional Headquarters, NOAA, per Larry Eblen ([email protected]) and
Walt Zaleski, ([email protected]), Warning Coordination Meteorologist Program, Manager NWS, Southern Region Headquarters, Fort Worth, Texas.
Image source: Some images in this chapter are courtesy of The MUTCD, 2009 Edition, published by FHWA at mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/pdfs/2009/pdf_index.htm
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Chapter 9: Some Special Driving Situations
Texas Driver Handbook
Share the Road with Trucks
Whether you are sharing the road with a passenger car, motorcycle, truck, bus, or other vehicle, it is important to obey
traffic laws, abide by the rules of the road, and drive defensively.
Passing
1. W hen passing a truck, first check to your front and rear, then move into the passing lane only if it is clear and you are
in a legal passing zone. Let the truck driver know you are passing by blinking your headlights, especially at night. The
truck driver should make it easier for you to pass by staying to the far side of the lane.
2. On a level highway, it takes three to five seconds longer to pass a truck than a car. On an upgrade, a truck often loses
speed so it’s easier to pass than a car. On a downgrade, the truck’s momentum causes the truck to go faster so you
may need to increase your speed. Complete your pass as quickly as possible and don’t stay alongside the other vehicle.
3. If the driver blinks the truck’s lights after you pass, it’s a signal that it is clear for you to pull back in front of the truck.
Be sure to move back only when you can see the front of the truck in your rearview mirror. After you pass a truck,
maintain your speed.
4. W hen a truck passes you, help the truck driver by keeping to the far side of your lane. You’ll make it easier for the
truck driver if you slightly reduce your speed. Don’t speed up while the truck is passing. After passing, the truck driver
should signal to let you know he is returning to your lane.
5. W hen you meet a truck coming from the opposite direction, keep as far to the side as possible to avoid a sideswipe
crash and to reduce the wind turbulence between the two vehicles. Remember, turbulence pushes vehicles apart; it
does not pull them together.
Following a Truck
1. Tractor-trailers take longer to stop than a car traveling at the same speed. The average passenger car traveling at 55
mph can stop in approximately 240 feet, which is about three-fourths the length of a football field. A fully loaded
tractor-trailer may take more than 400 feet to completely stop; well over the length of a football field.
2. If you’re following a truck, stay out of its blind spot at the rear. Avoid following too closely, and position your vehicle
so the truck driver can see your vehicle in the truck’s side view mirror. An excellent rule of thumb for motorists sharing the road with a tractor-trailer is, “If you can’t see the truck driver in his side mirror, he can’t see you.” By avoiding
the truck driver’s blind spot, you will have a good view of the road ahead, and the truck driver can give you plenty of
warning for a stop or a turn. This will allow you more time to react and make a safe stop.
3. W hen you follow a truck at night always dim your headlights. Bright lights from a vehicle behind will blind the truck
driver when the lights reflect off the truck’s large side mirrors.
4. If you are stopped behind a truck on an upgrade, leave space in case the truck drifts back when it starts to move. Also,
keep to the left in your lane so the driver can see you’re stopped behind the truck.
Right Turns
Pay attention to turn signals. Trucks make wide, right turns and sometimes leave an open space to the right just before the
turn. To avoid a crash, don’t pass a truck on the right if there is a possibility the truck might make a right turn.
Backing Crashes
Never cross behind a truck preparing to back up. When a truck driver is preparing to back the truck from a road into a
loading area, the road is temporarily blocked. Wait for the truck to complete its maneuver before trying to pass. If you pass
too closely behind the truck the driver or pedestrian enters the truck’s blind spot and a crash may occur.
Maneuverability
Trucks are designed to carry products to and from towns and cities; they are not designed to be as maneuverable as cars.
Trucks have longer stopping and accelerating distances, a wider turning radius, and weigh more. On multi-lane highways,
tractor-trailers stay in the center lane to help the flow of local traffic on and off the highway. Staying in the middle lane
also increases the truck driver’s options if he/she has to switch lanes to avoid a crash. Be aware of common mistakes drivers
should avoid when driving around trucks and buses.
Cutting Off a Vehicle to Reach Your Exit or Turn
Cutting into the open space in front of a truck or bus removes the driver’s cushion of safety. Trying to beat a truck to a
single-lane construction zone represents a particularly dangerous situation. Slow down and exit or pull behind the truck.
Never Underestimate the Size and Speed of Approaching Tractor-trailer
Because of its large size, a tractor-trailer often appears to be traveling at a slower speed than it is. A substantial number of
car-truck collisions take place at intersections because the driver of the car does not realize how close the truck is or how
quickly it is approaching.
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Chapter 9: Some Special Driving Situations
Texas Driver Handbook
Share the Road with Motorcycles
Individuals who operate a motorcycle have the same rights and privileges as any other vehicle on the road.
For various reasons, drivers may not see the motorcyclist. Approximately one-half of all motorcycle crashes involve another vehicle. A few of the most common reasons are provided below.
1. Many drivers tend to look for other cars, not for motorcyclists.
2. The profile of a motorcycle is much smaller than the profile of a car, making an approaching motorcyclist harder to see.
3. Estimating the distance and speed of a motorcycle is more difficult than it is for a car.
4. Motorcycle riding requires frequent lane movements to adjust to changing road conditions.
Situations When Crashes Are Most Likely to Occur
Motorcycle crashes are most likely to occur in the high-risk situations described below.
Left Turns
The most common crash between cars and motorcycles is at an intersection when the
driver of a car is making a left turn in front of a motorcycle. Over 40 percent of all motorcycle crashes occur at intersections. Nearly 66 percent of those crashes were caused
by the other vehicles turning left in front of the motorcyclist.
A Car’s Blind Spot
Motorcyclists are often hidden in a vehicle’s blind spot or missed in a quick look due to
their smaller size. Always make a visual check for motorcycles by checking mirrors and
blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections.
Hazardous Road Conditions
Road conditions that are a minor annoyance to you may pose a major hazard to motorcyclists. Motorcyclists may suddenly change speed or adjust their position within a lane in a reaction to the weather or road and traffic conditions such
as potholes, gravel, railroad crossings, and wet or slippery surfaces which impair the motorcyclists’ braking and handling
abilities. Expect and allow room for such actions by the motorcyclist.
Strong Winds
A strong gust of wind can move a motorcycle across an entire lane if the rider isn’t prepared for
it. Wind gusts from large trucks in the other lane can be a hazard.
Large Vehicles
A large vehicle such as a van, bus, or truck can block a motorcycle from a driver’s view and the
motorcyclist may seem to suddenly appear from nowhere.
How Can I Drive Aware?
Look Out for Motorcyclists
Although you may not see any cars, be aware there may be a motorcycle. Be careful at intersections, and always take a
second look for a motorcycle before turning at an intersection, particularly when making left turns.
Signal Your Intentions
Always signal before changing lanes or merging with traffic. This allows the motorcyclist to anticipate traffic flow and
find a safe lane position. Signal even if you don’t see cars or motorcycles. Be careful when making left turns across lanes
of approaching traffic. Look carefully in all directions for approaching motorcyclists. Don’t be fooled by a flashing turn
signal. Motorcycle signals usually are not self canceling and riders sometimes forget to turn them off. Wait to be sure the
motorcycle is going to turn before you proceed.
Respect a Motorcycle
Allow the motorcyclist a full lane width. Although it may seem as though there is enough room in the traffic lane for an
automobile and a motorcycle, the motorcycle is entitled to a full lane and may need the room to maneuver safely. Do not
attempt to share the lane with a motorcycle.
o te:
e cia l N
Allow Plenty of Space When Following a Motorcycle
The slightest contact can mean a spill or injury for the rider. Allow more following distance, at least four to
six seconds, when following a motorcycle so the motorcyclist has enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency. In dry conditions motorcycles can stop more quickly than a car.
The DPS Motorcycle Operator Training and Safety Program was created in 1983 by the legislature to improve
rider skills and reduce the number and severity of motorcycle crashes in Texas. A portion of each motorcycle
license fee is used to support this program. The program sets up and monitors motorcycle training classes
throughout the state and promotes motorcycle safety and awareness through campaigns, exhibits, and materials.
Sp
w a re
drive a
I f you rcyclists
to
o
tion s,
of m
e situa
in th es n h elp ma ke
you ca eets a n d
r
th e st a fer for
s
ro a ds e.
e ver yon
Contact Motorcycle Safety at www.dps.texas.gov/msb or call (800) 292-5787. Residents in the Austin area can call
(512) 424-2021 for information about motorcycle safety or to locate the nearest training location.
54
Chapter 9: Some Special Driving Situations
Texas Driver Handbook
Share the Road with Light Rail
In recent years, light rail has been established in many major cities in Texas. As you travel these areas, you will notice these
trains move along the streets just like other vehicles. Light rail is very quiet, in fact these trains are quieter than most buses
and cars. So whether you are riding light rail or just walking or driving near the train or tracks, it’s important to stay alert
and observe the safety rules.
Table 29: Safety Rules for Light Rail
Action
Description
Stop
- Don’t walk in front of, between, or behind a train.
- Trains can’t start or stop quickly regardless of traffic flow.
- Do not drive, stop, or park your vehicle on the tracks. It’s dangerous and illegal.
Look
- Cross the tracks only at designated crossings and only when it is safe.
- Look both ways before crossing the tracks. Trains travel in both directions.
- Obey all warning signs, flashing lights, signals, and crossing gates. A law enforcement officer will issue tickets to violators.
Listen
- Stay alert. Light rail is quieter than a bus or most cars. You may not hear a light rail coming.
- Listen for train horns and signal bells.
- Always follow instructions from a law enforcement officer.
Don’t
- Never race a train, run in front of a train, or put anything on or near the tracks.
- Never try to beat the train to a crossing. Even in a tie, you lose.
- Never drive around crossing gate arms.
Share the Road with Bicycles
A bicycle is a vehicle. Any person riding a bicycle has all of the rights and responsibilities as a driver of a vehicle.
Rules for Motorists
1. Bicyclists are not restricted to the right lane of traffic. One-way, multi-lane streets are one example. Another instance
is when the bicyclist is changing lanes to make a left turn. The bicyclists should follow the same path any other vehicle
would take traveling in the same direction.
2. Motorist should merge with bicycle traffic when preparing for a right turn. Avoid turning directly across the path of
bicycle traffic.
3. Bicyclists are required to ride as far to the right in the lane as possible only when the lane can be shared safely by a car
and a bicycle, side-by-side. Even then there are certain conditions which allow a bicyclist to take the full lane.
a. The person is overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction.
b. The person is preparing for a left turn at an intersection or onto a private road or driveway.
c. There are unsafe conditions in the road such as fixed or moving objects, parked or moving vehicles, pedestrians,
animals, potholes, or debris.
d. The lane is of substandard width making it unsafe for a car and a bicycle to safely share the lane side by side. When
this is the case, it is best for the cyclist to take the full lane whether riding single file or two abreast.
Car-Bicycle Crashes
The most common motorist caused car-bicycle crashes are:
1. A motorist turns left in front of oncoming bicycle traffic. Oncoming bicycle traffic is often overlooked or its speed
misjudged.
2. A motorist turns right across the path of the bicycle. The motorist should slow down and merge with the bicycle traffic
for a safe right turn.
3. A motorist pulls away from a stop sign and fails to yield the right-of-way to bicycle cross traffic. At intersections, the
right-of-way rules apply equally to motor vehicles and bicycles.
Wrong way
Turning right,
merge right!
Image source: Some images in this chapter are courtesy of The MUTCD, 2009 Edition, published by FHWA at mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/pdfs/2009/pdf_index.htm
55
Chapter 10: Alcohol and Drugs Impact on the Driving Ability
Texas Driver Handbook
Chapter 10: Alcohol and Drugs Impact on the Driving Ability
Any drug may affect a person’s ability to drive. Millions of people take (over the counter and prescription) medications,
illegal drugs or drink alcohol and do not realize the impact on their capability to operate a vehicle. Alcohol, tranquilizers,
marijuana, or any other drug, even over the counter, can affect the mental and physical (psychomotor) skills necessary to
operate a vehicle and/or react to external events while driving a vehicle.
Each individual is different and their driving skills can be affected differently by the same drug. A driver’s weight, emotional state, amount of the drug or when taken, all will influence the driver’s ability to assess an emergency situation or
to judge speed and distance. But safe driving always requires the same thing: an observant eye, a steady hand, and a clear
head.
A person will lose their judgment when they drink or use drugs that affect how they react to sounds, what they see, and the
speed of other vehicles around them. It’s often the first thing about them to change. Good judgment may be as simple as
saying no to a friend who wants to race their car. However, if a person has been drinking or they are under the influence of
drugs, their judgment may turn into, “Sure, take my car.” A person’s ability to reason will all but disappear.
Taking more than one drug at the same time can be dangerous since drugs may have a different overall cumulative effect.
This is especially true when alcohol is involved. Besides escalating the overall effects and side effects of the other drugs,
alcohol can also mask those same effects of other drugs increasing a person’s risk to decision making and/or responsive
reactions to situations. If a person takes more than one drug or if a person mixes drugs, especially tranquilizers, or if a
person has doubts about a drug or drug mix, they should check with a doctor or pharmacist.
Table 30: Alcohol and Other Types of Drugs
Type
Description
Marijuana
Research has shown even typical social doses of marijuana can affect concentration, judgment, and sensory and
perceptual skills needed for careful driving. People who are under marijuana influence have impaired sensory and
perceptual abilities.
Stimulants
Heavy amphetamine use may keep drivers awake and active for long periods of time, it also makes them less
coordinated, edgy, and four times more likely to be involved in a car crash. Research shows typical social amounts
of cocaine can produce lapses in attention and concentration. While caffeine can help drowsy drivers stay alert,
it can’t make a drunk driver sober. Studies show ordinary amounts of caffeine don’t improve a drunken subject’s
driving.
Tranquilizers /
Sedative-Hypnotics
Sedative-hypnotic drugs including barbiturates are powerful depressants which calm people down or help them
sleep. Sleepy or over-sedated drivers are not good drivers.
Over-the-counter drugs
Many over-the-counter drugs cause drowsiness in some people which can affect their driving. Read the labels and
be careful with antihistamines, other cold preparations, or any medicine that relaxes or promotes sleep.
Any drug
Any drug might affect your ability as a driver. If you take more than one drug or if you mix drugs, especially
tranquilizers or other sedative-hypnotics, with alcohol, you could be asking for trouble on the road and off. If you
have doubts about a drug or drug mix, check with a doctor or pharmacist.
Alcohol
Each year alcohol, a depressant drug affecting coordination, judgment, perception, and emotional state, is
responsible for a significant number of highway deaths. Alcohol increases the depressant effects of tranquilizers
and barbiturates. Mixing these drugs, on or off the road, can be hazardous.
The Number One Killer is Alcohol
DWI is a problem affecting all Texans. According to the Calendar Year 2012 Texas Motor Vehicle Traffic Crash Highlights
(Texas Department of Transportation), 1,099 persons were killed in a motor vehicle traffic crash with a driver under the
influence of alcohol. Alcohol related crashes represent 32% of the total number of persons killed in motor vehicle traffic
crashes.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the leading cause of death for U. S. teens is motor vehicle
crashes. In 2010, approximately 2,700 teens (16 to 19 years of age) were killed and 282,000 were seriously injured in motor
vehicle accidents.
In 2009, 33% of drivers aged 15 to 20 years old who were killed in motor vehicle crashes had a BAC of .01 or higher and
28% of these drivers had a BAC of .08 or higher. Not all teens have been drinking. Some are passengers or innocent targets
of people who drink and drive. One of those injured or killed could be your best friend. One could be you.
To make Texas safer, the Texas legislature enacted laws to deter people from drinking and driving by penalizing those who
choose to drink and drive. In Texas a person is considered legally intoxicated if the person has a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or more. Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) and Driving Under the Influence (DUI) arrests can be a
humiliating experience and costly. Some fines range as high as $10,000 not including the cost of a bail bondsman, attorney,
or other court-required expenses. Is it worth the risk?
56
Chapter 10: Alcohol and Drugs Impact on the Driving Ability
Texas Driver Handbook
Open Container
It is illegal to possess an open container of alcohol in a passenger area of a motor vehicle located on a public highway,
regardless of whether the vehicle is being operated, stopped, or parked. Conviction of this offense is punishable by a fine
not to exceed $500.
Myths about Drinking Alcohol
Taking cold showers, drinking black coffee, or exercising will not sober a person up. Only time, body weight, number of
drinks, and how much has been eaten, can affect how long it takes to sober up. It takes about one hour for the body to get
rid of each drink consumed. If a person has been drinking they should have someone who has not been drinking do the
driving.
Texas Tough Alcohol-Related Laws for Minors
Zero Tolerance for Minors
According to the Texas Alcohol Beverage Code a minor is any individual who is under 21 years of age. A minor may not
purchase, attempt to purchase, consume, or possess an alcoholic beverage. Since a minor should not possess alcohol, zero
tolerance legislation was passed for minors who commit an offense under the non-driving alcohol-related laws and for
minors who drive under the influence.
Zero tolerance means just that. Even if a minor is not intoxicated as defined under the DWI statute, if a minor has any
detectable amount of alcohol in his/her system while operating a motor vehicle in a public place or while operating a watercraft, the minor has committed the criminal offense of Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol by a Minor (see table 34).
Penalties for Non-Driving Alcohol-Related Offenses by Minors
The Texas Zero Tolerance law provides penalties for minors who commit offenses under the non-driving alcohol-related
offenses. A minor may not purchase, attempt to purchase, falsely state he/she is 21 years of age or older, or present any
document indicating he/she is 21 years of age or older to a person engaged in the selling or serving an alcoholic beverage.
A minor may not consume, or possess an alcoholic beverage. Persons who purchase, furnish, or sell alcohol to a minor can
be assessed a fine of up to $4,000 and/or confinement in jail for up to one year.
Table 31: Penalties for Non-Driving Alcohol-Related Offenses – Minors
Offense
Penalty
1st offense
Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500, 8 to 12 hours of community service, mandatory attendance of an alcohol awareness course, and license will be suspended (or privilege denied if not licensed) for 30
days.
2nd offense
Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500, 20 to 40 hours of community service, may be required to
attend an alcohol awareness course, and license will be suspended (or privilege denied if not licensed) for 60 days.
3rd offense
(Under 17 years of age)
Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500, 20 to 40 hours of community service, may be required to
attend an alcohol awareness course, and license will be suspended (or privilege denied if not licensed) for 60 days
or case can be transferred to Juvenile Court.
3rd offense
(17 to 21 years of age)
Class B misdemeanor punishable by a fine of $250 to $2,000, may be required to attend an alcohol awareness
course, confinement in jail not to exceed 180 days, and license will be suspended (or privilege denied if not
licensed) for 180 days. Minors are not eligible for deferred disposition on the third conviction and every conviction
after.
In addition to the above penalties, if a minor is convicted of any moving vehicle violation while suspended due to a nondriving alcohol-related offense (listed above) they are subject to the penalties of Driving While License Invalid (DWLI).
Implied Consent Laws for Minors
Implied consent is consent which is not expressly granted by a person, but rather inferred from a person’s actions and the
facts and circumstances of a particular situation.
A minor has implied their consent to take one or more breath or blood specimen for analysis if they are arrested for operating a motor vehicle or watercraft in a public place while intoxicated, or if there is any detectable or noticeable amount
of alcohol in their system while operating a motor vehicle in a public place as deemed by an officer. The breath or blood
specimen will determine if alcohol is present in their body. It will also identify the amount of alcohol in their system. Additionally, it can identify the presence of any other controlled substances or drugs.
Refusal to provide a breath or blood specimen will result in the suspension of the minor’s license or driving privileges if
not licensed.
57
Chapter 10: Alcohol and Drugs Impact on the Driving Ability
Texas Driver Handbook
Table 32: Penalties for Refusal to Provide a Specimen - Minors
Offense
Penalty
1st offense
Driver license suspended or privilege denied if not licensed, for 180 days.
2nd and subsequent offenses
Driver license suspended or privilege denied if not licensed, for 2 years.
A minor who gives a breath or blood specimen that confirms he/she has been operating a motor vehicle in a public place
with any detectable amount of alcohol in his/her system but the amount is below the 0.08 BAC legal limit of intoxication
will have his/her license suspended or driving privilege denied if not licensed.
Table 33: Minor Provided Specimen Confirming Detectable Amount of Alcohol (failure)
Offense
Penalty
1st offense
Driver license suspended or privilege denied if not licensed, for 60 days.
2nd offense
Driver license suspended or privilege denied if not licensed, for 120 days.
3rd and subsequent offenses
Driver license suspended or privilege denied if not licensed, for 180 days.
A minor may request a hearing in the county of residence before a hearing officer to contest the suspension.
Table 34: Penalties for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) of Alcohol – Minors
Offense
Penalty
1st offense
Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500, community service of 20 to 40 hours, and
attendance in an alcohol awareness course is required. If the minor is under 18, the parent may be
required to also attend the course. The minor’s license will be suspended (or privilege denied if not
licensed) for 120 days.
2nd offense
Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500, community service of 40 to 60 hours, and
minor’s license will be suspended (or privilege denied if not licensed). The alcohol awareness course
may be required.
3rd offense (17 to 21 years of age)
Class B misdemeanor punishable by a fine of $500 to $2,000, community service of 40 to 60 hours,
and/or confinement in jail not to exceed 180 days, an alcohol awareness class may be required, and
the minor’s license will be suspended (or privilege denied if not licensed). The court may not give
deferred disposition on the third offense.
3rd offense (under 17 years of age)
Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500, community service of 40 to 60 hours, and
the minor’s license will be suspended (or privilege denied if not licensed). The alcohol awareness
course may be required or the case can be transferred to Juvenile Court as delinquent conduct.
In Texas, as a reminder, a person is considered legally intoxicated if they have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08
or more.
Table 35: Penalties for Driving While Intoxicated (Alcohol or Drugs) – Minors
Offense
Penalty
1st offense
Class B misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed $2,000, confinement in jail for 72 hours to 180 days, and
suspension of the driver license (or privilege denied if not licensed) for 90 or 365 days. The court may probate the jail
sentence and waive the license suspension on the first offense only. Possession of an open container of an alcoholic
beverage increases the minimum confinement by three to six days.
2nd offense
Class A misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed $4,000, confinement in jail for 30 days to 1 year, and suspension of the driver license (or privilege denied if not licensed) for 180 days to 18 months.
3rd offense and
every offense after
Felony of the third degree punishable by a fine not to exceed $10,000, imprisonment in the Texas Department of
Criminal Justice (TDCJ) for 2 to 10 years, and suspension of the driver license (or privilege denied if not licensed) for
180 days to 18 months.
DWI with passenger
under 15
A state jail felony punishable by a fine not to exceed $10,000, confinement in state jail for 180 days to 2 years and
suspension of the driver license (or privilege denied if not licensed) for 90 days to 1 year.
Intoxication assault
Third degree felony punishable by a fine not to exceed $10,000, imprisonment in the Texas Department of Criminal
Justice (TDCJ) for 2 to 10 years, and suspension of the driver license (or privilege denied if not licensed) for 90 days to
1 year.
Intoxication
manslaughter
Second degree felony punishable by a fine not to exceed $10,000, imprisonment in the Texas Department of Criminal
Justice (TDCJ) for 2 to 20 years, and a suspension of the driver license (or privilege denied if not licensed) for 180 days
to 2 years.
58
Chapter 10: Alcohol and Drugs Impact on the Driving Ability
Texas Driver Handbook
Texas Alcohol-Related Laws for Adults
Implied Consent Laws for Adults
The implied consent for adults is similar to that of minors.
Like the minor, an adult has implied their consent to take one or more breath or blood specimen for analysis if they are
arrested for operating a motor vehicle or watercraft in a public place while intoxicated, or if there is any detectable or
noticeable amount of alcohol in their system while operating a motor vehicle in a public place as deemed by an officer. The
breath or blood specimen will determine if alcohol is present in their body. It will also identify the amount of alcohol in
their system. Additionally, it can identify the presence of any other controlled substances or drugs.
Refusal by an adult to give a blood or breath specimen for analysis will result in a driver license suspension of 180 days. If
a person submits to a blood or breath specimen and the results show a BAC of 0.08 or greater, they are subject to a driver
license suspension of 90 to 365 days. Anyone with a BAC of 0.08 or more could be considered intoxicated.
Table 36: Penalties for DWI and DUI of Alcohol or Drugs-Adults
Offense
Fine
Confinement
Driver License Suspension
1st offense
$0 - $2,000 and
72 hours to 180 days in jail
90 days to 365 days
2nd offense
$0 - $4,000 and
30 days to 1 year in jail
180 days to 2 years
3rd and subsequent offenses
$0 - $10,000 and
2 to 10 years in TDCJ
180 days to 2 years
DWI with passenger under 15
$0 - $10,000 and
180 days to 2 years in state jail
Varies by 1st, 2nd, or 3rd offense
Intoxication manslaughter
$0 - $10,000 and
2 to 20 years in TDCJ
180 days to 2 years
$0 - $10,000 and
2 to 10 years in TDCJ
90 days to 2 years*
Intoxication assault
*Court may probate jail sentence and waive driver license suspension on first offense.
Know Your Legal Limit
The legal limit in Texas is 0.08 BAC or any amount which results in the loss of normal use of mental or physical faculties.
The information provided in the Alcohol and Driving. Why Take the Risk? table is only a guide and is based on calculated
averages. Alcohol tolerance may vary by individual. Food in a person’s stomach, medications, health, and psychological
condition are also influential factors which affect the rate of alcohol absorption.
Drivers are encouraged to take drug and alcohol awareness courses to become better educated about the effects and consequences of drugs and alcohol. Insurance companies may provide liability insurance discounts to drivers who complete
drug and alcohol awareness courses.
Table 37: Alcohol and Driving. Why Take the Risk?
Drinks
Body Weight in Pounds
100
120
140
160
180
200
220
240
1
.04
.03
.03
.02
.02
.02
.02
.02
2
.06
.06
.05
.05
.04
.04
.03
.03
3
.11
.09
.08
.07
.06
.06
.05
.05
4
.15
.12
.11
.09
.08
.08
.07
.06
5
.19
.16
.13
.12
.11
.09
.09
.08
6
.23
.19
.16
.14
.13
.11
.10
.09
7
.26
.22
.19
.16
.15
.13
.12
.11
8
.30
.25
.21
.19
.17
.15
.14
.13
9
.34
.28
.24
.21
.19
.17
.15
.14
10
.38
.31
.27
.23
.21
.19
.17
.16
Influenced
Possibly
Impaired
Legally
intoxicated
A drink may include a 12 ounce can of beer, a mixed drink with 1.5 ounces of liquor or a 5 ounce glass of wine. They all
contain approximately the same amount of alcohol.
59
Chapter 11: Motor Vehicle Crashes
Texas Driver Handbook
Chapter 11: Motor Vehicle Crashes
When you give your name, address, vehicle registration number, and insurance information to anyone involved in the
crash, if requested and available, you must also show your driver license to the other driver(s) involved. Get the same
information from the other driver(s). Write the insurance company name and policy number exactly as it is shown on the
driver’s proof-of-insurance card. If you have the name of the driver’s insurance company, call the Texas Department of
Insurance at (800) 252-3439 to get the company address and telephone number.
If you are involved in a crash and it is not investigated by a law enforcement officer and the crash resulted in death or damage to property of $1,000 or more, you must make a written report of the crash and file it with the Texas Department of
Transportation (TxDOT) no later than the 10th day after the date of the crash. The written report must be on the required
form, please visit the TxDOT website at www.txdot.gov.
Crash Resulting in Injury to, or Death of a person
If you are operating a motor vehicle involved in a crash resulting in injury to, or death of a person, you must immediately
stop your vehicle at the scene of the crash (or as close as possible to the scene of the crash) without obstructing traffic more
than necessary. If your vehicle is not stopped at the scene you must immediately return to the scene of the crash. You must
remain at the scene of the crash until you have complied with the following:
1. Give your name and address, the registration number of the vehicle you were driving, and the name of your motor
vehicle liability insurer to any person injured or to the operator or occupant of or person attending a vehicle involved
in the collision:
2. Show your driver license (if requested and available) to any person injured or to the operator or occupant of or person
attending a vehicle involved in the collision; and
3. Provide any person injured in the crash reasonable assistance including transporting or making arrangements for
transporting the person to a physician or hospital for medical treatment if it is apparent treatment is necessary, or if the
injured person requests the transportation.
Table 38: Penalties for Failure to Stop
Offense
Penalty
1st offense crash resulting in a death of a person
Second degree felony punishable by a fine not to exceed $10,000 and imprisonment in
the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) for 2 to 20 years.
1st offense crash resulting in serious bodily injury
Third degree felony punishable by a fine not to exceed $10,000 and imprisonment in
the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) for 2 to 10 years.
1st offense crash resulting in injury
Imprisonment in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) for up to 5 years;
confinement in the county jail for up to 1 year; a fine not to exceed $5,000; or both a
fine and imprisonment.
Crash Resulting in Damage to a Vehicle
If you are operating a motor vehicle involved in a crash resulting only in damage to a vehicle that is driven or attended by
a person, you must immediately stop your vehicle at the scene of the crash or as close as possible to the scene of the crash
without obstructing traffic more than necessary. If your vehicle is not stopped at the scene, you must immediately return
to the scene of the crash. You must remain at the scene of the crash (if the crash occurs on a main lane, ramp, shoulder,
median, or adjacent area and each vehicle involved can be normally and safely driven, drivers must move their vehicle as
soon as possible to a designated crash investigation site, if available, a location on the frontage road, the nearest suitable
cross street, or other suitable location) until you have complied with the following:
1. Give your name and address, the registration number of the vehicle you were driving, and the name of your motor
vehicle liability insurer to any person injured or to the operator or occupant of or person attending a vehicle involved
in the collision:
2. Show your driver license (if requested and available) to any person injured or to the operator or occupant of or person
attending a vehicle involved in the collision; and
3. Provide any person injured in the crash reasonable assistance including transporting or making arrangements for
transporting the person to a physician or hospital for medical treatment if it is apparent treatment is necessary, or if the
injured person requests the transportation.
Crash Involving an Unattended Vehicle
If you are operating a motor vehicle that collides with and damages an unattended vehicle, you must immediately stop and:
1. Locate the operator or owner of the unattended vehicle and provide the name and address of the operator and owner of
the vehicle that struck the unattended vehicle; or
60
Chapter 11: Motor Vehicle Crashes
Texas Driver Handbook
2. Leave or securely attach in a visible way, to the unattended vehicle a written notice giving;
• the name and address of the operator and the owner of the vehicle that struck the unattended vehicle
• a statement of the circumstances of the collision.
Crash Resulting in Damages to a Fixture, Landscaping, or Structure
If you are driving a motor vehicle involved in a crash resulting ONLY in damage to a fixture, landscaping, or structure
legally on or adjacent to a highway, you must:
1. Take reasonable steps to locate the owner (or person in charge) of the property and notify him/her of the crash;
2. Provide your name, address, and registration number of the vehicle you were driving;
3. If requested and available, you must show your driver license to the owner or person in charge of the property; and
4. If the crash is not investigated by a law enforcement officer and the crash resulted in injury to or the death of a person
or damage to the property of any one person to an apparent extent of $1,000 or more you must make a written report of
the crash and file it with the Texas Department of Transportation no later than the 10th day after the crash.
Failure to comply with the requirements is an offense.
Table 39: Penalties for Failure to Comply with Damages
Offense
Penalty
1st offense (Less than $200 in damages)
Class C misdemeanor if the damage to all vehicles is less than $200 and is punishable by a
fine not to exceed $500.
1st offense ($200 or more in damages)
Class B misdemeanor if the damage to all vehicles is $200 or more and is punishable by a fine
not to exceed $2,000, confinement in jail for up to 180 days, or both.
If you are driving a vehicle involved in a crash that results in the injury or death of a person or damage to a vehicle that
cannot be normally safely driven, you must immediately give notice of the crash to;
• the local police if the crash occurred in a municipality;
• local police department or the sheriff’s office if the crash occurred not more than 100 feet outside the limits of a
municipality;
• or the sheriff’s office or the nearest DPS office if the crash occurred elsewhere.
Hit-and-Run Crashes
If you are involved in a hit-and-run crash, report this crash to law enforcement for investigation. The Texas Department of
Insurance advises uninsured motorist coverage will pay for damage in hit-and-run crashes reported to a law enforcement
agency.
Aiding the Injured
1. When calling a doctor or ambulance, state the place of the crash clearly and correctly.
2. Do not assume people are not injured simply because they say they are not. Send for skilled help as quickly as possible.
Unskilled handling can do more harm than good.
3. Do not move or lift the victim(s) unless it is absolutely necessary. If a victim must be moved, get help and try not to
change the position in which the victim was found.
4. Stop serious bleeding with thick cloth pads, as clean as possible, apply with pressure by hand or by bandaging.
5. Keep the victim(s) comfortable. If it is hot, cool the victim(s) and provide shade as much as possible. If it is cool, cover
the victim with blankets or coats if necessary and if available.
61
Chapter 12: Pedestrian Safety
Texas Driver Handbook
Chapter 12: Pedestrian Safety
The driver should always pay special attention to the pedestrian (a person on foot) and the bicyclist. However, there are
certain safety rules pedestrians should follow.
Laws and Safety Tips for Pedestrians
1. Obey traffic control signals unless otherwise directed by a pedestrian control signal.
2. Do not cross the street between two intersections. It is dangerous to cross in the middle of a street.
3. Use sidewalks when available, and do not walk in the street.
4. Walk on the left side of the road if there are no sidewalks. Step off the pavement when a car approaches.
5. If you cross a street at any point other than within a crosswalk at an intersection, you (the pedestrian)
must yield the right-of-way to all vehicles.
6. If you cross a street without using a pedestrian tunnel or overhead pedestrian crossing which has been provided, you
(the pedestrian) must yield the right-of-way to all vehicles.
7. When crossing at a crosswalk, keep right if possible.
8. Blind, partially blind, or disabled individuals may carry a white cane while walking. Others must not display a cane
on any public street or highway.
9. No person may stand in the road for the purpose of soliciting a ride, contributions, or business. A person may stand in
a road to solicit a charitable contribution if authorized to do so by the local authority having jurisdiction over the road.
10. Do not suddenly walk or run into the street in the path of a vehicle. These sudden actions may make it impossible for
the vehicle operator to yield.
11. Wait on the curb, not in the street, until the traffic signals change to green or read “Walk.”
12. Always wear white or light colored clothing and/or carry a light or reflector when walking at night.
13. Look both ways before crossing the street and before stepping out from behind parked cars.
14. Be extra careful when getting off a streetcar or bus.
15. Get in and out of cars on the curb side of the road when possible.
16. Do not walk on a road when you are under the influence or consuming an alcoholic beverage. Alcohol is a contributing factor to pedestrian traffic crashes.
17. Pedestrians should be aware that local authorities may have ordinances which require pedestrians to comply with the
directions of an official traffic control device (signals, signs, etc.) and prohibit pedestrians from crossing a road in a
business district or a designated highway except in a crosswalk.
Laws and Safety Tips for Motorists
1. If you see a pedestrian crossing or attempting to cross the street, slow down, use your horn if necessary, and be prepared to stop.
2. Be alert to a pedestrian guided by an assistance animal or carrying a white cane. A driver shall take the necessary precautions to avoid injuring or endangering a pedestrian crossing or attempting to cross the street. The driver shall bring
the vehicle to a full stop if injury or danger can only be avoided by that action. Remember the white cane indicates the
person may be blind, partially blind, or disabled.
3. Watch for individuals who are blind at bus stops, intersections, business areas, and near schools for the blind.
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Chapter 13: Bicycle Vehicle Laws and Safety
Texas Driver Handbook
Chapter 13: Bicycle Vehicle Laws and Safety
Bicycle Traffic Laws
A bicycle is a vehicle. Any person riding a bicycle has the same rights and responsibilities that apply to a driver operating
a vehicle unless these cannot by their nature apply to a person operating a bicycle.
Any person who operates a bicycle is subject to the same penalties for violating a traffic law as is a person operating a
motor vehicle. All traffic convictions will be placed on the individual’s driver record, regardless if the conviction was for
an offense committed on a bicycle or in a motor vehicle.
Do:
1. A bicyclist should always obey all traffic laws, signs, and signals. Never ride opposite the flow of traffic. Stop at all
stop signs and stop at red lights.
2. A person operating a bicycle on a one-way road with two or more marked traffic lanes may ride as near as possible to
the left curb or edge of the road.
3. Individuals who are riding two abreast shall not impede the normal reasonable flow of traffic on the road. Individuals
riding two abreast on a “laned” road must ride in a single lane.
4. Bicyclists may ride on the shoulder of the road.
5. Bicyclists may signal a right turn using either their left arm pointing up or their right arm pointed horizontally.
6. A person operating a bicycle on a road moving slower than the other traffic shall ride as near as possible to the right
curb or edge of the road unless:
a. The person is overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction;
b. The person is preparing for a left turn at an intersection or onto a private road or driveway;
c. There are unsafe conditions in the road such as fixed or moving objects, parked or moving vehicles, pedestrians,
animals, potholes, or debris; or
d. The person is operating a bicycle in an outside lane that is:
- Less than 14 feet in width and doesn’t have a designated bicycle lane adjacent to that lane; or
- The lane is too narrow for a bicycle and a motor vehicle to safely travel side by side.
Don’t:
1. No bicycle shall be used to carry more than the number of individuals it is designated or equipped for.
2. No person riding a bicycle shall attach the same or himself/herself to a streetcar or vehicle upon a road.
3. No person operating a bicycle shall carry any package, bundle, or article which prevents him/her from keeping at least
one hand on the handlebars.
4. Only ride on or astride a permanent and regular seat.
Shared Lane Marking
The shared lane marking may be used to:
1. Assist bicyclists with lateral positioning in a shared lane with on-street parallel parking in order to reduce the chance
of a bicyclist’s impacting the open door of a parked vehicle;
2. Assist bicyclists with lateral position in lanes too narrow for a motor vehicle and a bicycle to travel side by side within
the same traffic lane;
3. Alert road users of the lateral location bicyclists are likely to occupy within the traveled way;
4. Encourage safe passing of bicyclists by motorists; or
5. Reduce the incidence of wrong-way bicycling.
Bicycles Must Be Properly Equipped
1. Every bicycle shall be equipped with a brake which will enable the operator to make the braked wheels skid on dry,
level, clean pavement.
2. Hearing-impaired bicycle riders may display a safety flag.
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Chapter 13: Bicycle Vehicle Laws and Safety
Texas Driver Handbook
3. Every bicycle in use at nighttime shall be equipped with:
a. A lamp on the front which emits a white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet in front of the bicycle; and
b. A red, DPS-approved reflector on the rear visible from distances of 50 feet to 300 feet. (A red light on the rear visible from a distance of 500 feet may be used in addition to the red reflector.)
Bicycle Safety Guidelines
1. It is highly suggested bicycle riders wear an approved bicycle helmet.
2. W hen riding on pedestrian facilities reduce speed and exercise caution.
3. Do not weave in and out of parked cars.
4. Move off the street to stop, park, or make repairs to your bicycle.
5. A bicyclist should select a route according to the person’s own bicycling skill and experience.
6. It is not required by law but bicycles should be equipped with a mirror.
Riding in Wet Weather
Water makes certain surfaces slick. Be aware of manhole covers and painted stripes on the road. Water also obscures some
hazards. Watch for potholes filled with water. In addition, the visibility of motorists is greatly decreased in wet weather.
Wear highly visible clothing when riding a bicycle.
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Chapter 14: Additional Safety Tips
Texas Driver Handbook
Chapter 14: Additional Safety Tips
Defensive Driving
To avoid crashes, the defensive driver should:
1. Stay alert and keep eyes moving to keep track of what is happening at all times
2. Look for trouble spots developing all around
3. Have a plan of action
4. Know that the law requires drivers to protect each other from their own mistakes
Safety Belts
The driver and all passengers in a passenger vehicle are required to use safety belts if occupying a seat in a vehicle
equipped with a safety belt. Children who are under 8 years of age and less than 4’9” in height (regardless of age) are
required by law to be secured in an appropriate child passenger safety seat if occupying a seat in a vehicle equipped with
a safety belt. Children who are at least 8 years of age but under 17 years of age or who are under 8 years of age but taller
than 4’9” in height must be secured in a safety belt if occupying a seat in a vehicle so equipped.
Safety belt requirements include pickups, SUVs, and trucks. Safety belts are life belts and help to
keep you:
1. From being thrown from your car (your chances of being killed are five times greater if you are
thrown from your car)
2. From hitting the dashboard too hard
3. In better control of your car
FASTEN
SAFETY
BELTS
STATE LAW
Whatever your reason for not wearing safety belts, it is not reasonable and may violate state law.
Penalties for Driving Without a Safety Belt
A driver can receive a citation for not wearing his/her safety belt and for not having each child under the age of 17 in a
safety seat or safety belt. Anyone who is at least 15 years of age can receive a citation for not being buckled up. There are
no exemptions to the safety belt laws although there are some defenses to prosecution for medical reasons with a physician’s note, postal workers, individuals who deliver the newspaper, utility workers, solid waste truck workers, or certain
commercial farm vehicle operators.
Vehicles with Open Beds
It is an offense to drive an open bed truck or an open flatbed truck or to draw an open flatbed trailer when a child who is
younger than 18 years of age is occupying the bed of the truck or trailer.
It is a defense to prosecution that the driver was operating a vehicle:
1. Or towing the vehicle in a parade or in an emergency;
2. To transport farm-workers from one field to another field on a farm-to-market road, ranch-to-market road, or county
road outside a municipality;
3. On a beach;
4. That is the only vehicle owned or operated by members of a household; or
5. In a hayride permitted by the governing body of or a law enforcement agency of each county or municipality in which
the hayride will occur.
Vehicles with Open Beds Towing a Boat or Watercraft
It is an offense for a person to operate a motor vehicle that is towing a boat or personal watercraft in or on which a person
who is younger than 18 years of age is riding.
It is a defense to prosecution that the driver was operating the motor vehicle:
1. In a parade;
2. In an emergency; or
3. On a beach.
Open Bed Passenger Restrictions
It is a Class B misdemeanor to operate a truck, road tractor, or truck tractor when another person occupies a trailer or semitrailer being drawn by the truck, road tractor, or truck tractor.
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Chapter 14: Additional Safety Tips
Texas Driver Handbook
It is a defense to prosecution that the person:
1. Towing the vehicle did not know another person occupied the trailer or semi-trailer
2. Occupying the trailer or semi-trailer was in a part of the vehicle designed for human habitation
3. Operating or towing the vehicle was:
a. In a parade or in an emergency;
b. Transporting farm-workers from one field to another field on a farm-to-market road, ranch-to-market road, or
county road outside a municipality; or
c. In a hayride permitted by the governing body of or a law enforcement agency of each county or municipality in
which the hayride will occur.
When Stopped by Law Enforcement
If you are stopped by law enforcement it is suggested you:
1. Move the vehicle safely to the right of the road as soon as possible and stop;
2. Place the vehicle in a parking position, set the emergency brake, turn the engine off, and activate the hazard warning
lights;
3. Remain in the car, lower the driver’s window, and wait for the law enforcement officer to give instructions;
4. Follow the instructions of the law enforcement officer;
5. Require passengers to remain in the car unless other instructions are given by the law enforcement officer; and
6. Give the appropriate signals and safely return to the proper lane of traffic when released by the law enforcement
officer.
False Identification Offense
A person commits an offense if he/she gives a false or fictitious name to a law enforcement officer who has lawfully arrested or detained the person.
Road Rage
Each year, road rage, also referred to as aggressive driving, causes hundreds of injuries and deaths. Aggressive driving
occurs when a driver becomes angry or irritated and as a result, fails to follow the rules of the road. An aggressive driver
will intentionally aggravate or attempt to aggravate other drivers and in some cases cause bodily injury, property damage,
or death to others.
Tips to Avoid Road Rage
1. Plan your trip or schedule in advance. Allow extra time in case your vehicle breaks down or you encounter traffic
congestion due to a crash, road construction, or rush-hour traffic.
2. W hen caught in traffic do not get angry. Try to relax and listen to music you enjoy. Remember, traffic congestion is
usually temporary and you will soon be on your way.
3. Should you need to use the horn, tap the horn, do not blow the horn. Do not confront other drivers or make obscene
gestures.
4. Do not cut into another driver’s lane of traffic. Properly signal your intentions to change lanes and change lanes when
it is safe to do so. Turn your turn signal off after you complete your lane change.
5. Do not intentionally slow down, slam on your brakes, or speed up to keep someone from passing or entering your lane
of travel.
6. Do not tailgate; follow at a safe distance.
7. Always remember to drive friendly and report aggressive driving to the local authorities.
Neighborhood Electronic Vehicles and Motor Assisted Scooters
A neighborhood electronic vehicle is defined as a vehicle subject to Federal Motor Safety Standard 500 with a top speed
of 35 mph.
A motor assisted scooter is defined as a self-propelled device with:
1. At least two wheels in contact with the ground;
2. A braking system capable of stopping the device under normal operating conditions;
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Chapter 14: Additional Safety Tips
Texas Driver Handbook
3. A gas or electric motor not exceeding 40 cc;
S pe cia l
4. A deck designed to allow a person to stand or sit while operating the device; and
5. The ability to be propelled by human power alone.
Both vehicles may only be operated on a street or highway when the posted speed limit is 45 mph or less
for a neighborhood electronic vehicle and 35 mph or less for a motor assisted scooter.
No te:
s
icipalitie
an d mun
n
C ounties ibit th e operatio
h
may pro type o f vehicle
o f eith er eet or highw ay
tr
on an y s y reason s.
for safet
Electronic Personal Assistive Mobility Devices (EPAMD)
EPAMD, for example Segways, are defined as a two, non-tandem wheeled device designed for transporting one person that
is self-balancing and propelled by an electric propulsion system with an average power of 750 watts or one horsepower.
An EPAMD can be operated on a residential street, road, or public highway with a maximum speed limit of 30 mph only:
1. While making a direct crossing of a highway in a marked or unmarked crosswalk;
2. Where no sidewalk is available; or
3. When so directed by a traffic control device or by a law enforcement officer.
Speed Reduces Your Field of Vision
Stationary
Field of vision is 180
degrees or more
40 MPH
Field of vision reduced
to about 2/5
20 MPH
Field of vision reduced
to about 2/3
60 MPH
Field of vision reduced
to about 1/5
Your Keys to Safe Driving
• Good Vision – Look with your eyes but see with your mind
• Obey traffic laws
• Proper care of vehicle – Don’t depend on yearly inspections; perform regular maintenance as needed
• Courtesy – Safety comes before the right-of-way
• Proper Signaling – Failure to signal is dangerous and inconsiderate
• Physical Fitness – Let someone else drive if you are not physically or mentally alert
Transporting Cargo and Materials
To prevent cargo or loose materials from falling or spilling from a car, truck, trailer, etc. onto the road and causing a crash
or damage to the roads, drivers must comply with certain state requirements.
Texas law mandates a vehicle shall be equipped and maintained to prevent loose material from escaping by blowing or
spilling. A vehicle bed carrying a load may not have a hole, crack, or other opening through which loose material can
escape. The bed shall be enclosed by side panels and on the front by a panel or the vehicle cab. The rear shall be enclosed
by a tailgate or panel. The load shall be covered and the covering firmly secured at the front and back, unless the load is
completely enclosed by the load-carrying compartment or does not blow or spill over the top of the load-carrying compartment. The tailgate of the vehicle shall be securely closed to prevent spillage during transportation.
Texas law also mandates that no person shall load or transport any loose material on or over the public highways, such as
dirt, sand, gravel, wood chips, or other material (except agricultural products in their natural state), capable of blowing or
spilling from a vehicle unless:
1. The bed carrying the load is completely enclosed on both sides and on the front and rear by a tailgate, board or panel;
and all must be so constructed as to prevent the escape of any part of the load by blowing or spilling; and
2. The top of the load is covered with a canvas, tarpaulin, or other covering firmly secured to the front and back to prevent the escape of the load because of blowing or spilling. This requirement does not apply to:
a. Any load-carrying compartment that completely encloses the load; or
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Texas Driver Handbook
b. The transporting of any load of loose materials not blowing or spilling over the top of the load- carrying compartment.
Safety Chains
Safety chains are required when certain types of vehicles are towing trailers in order to prevent the trailer from breaking
loose and causing a serious crash. A person may not drive a passenger car or light truck while towing a trailer, semi-trailer,
or house trailer on a public highway in Texas unless safety chains (approved by DPS) are attached (in a manner approved
by DPS) from a trailer, semi-trailer, or house trailer to the towing vehicle. The requirements of this law do not apply to a
passenger car or light truck towing a trailer or semi-trailer used for agricultural purposes or to any trailer or semi-trailer or
house trailer operated in compliance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.
Towing
When one vehicle is towing another, the drawbar, chain, rope, cable, or other connection must not be longer than 15 feet
from one vehicle to another. (This limit does not apply to pole trailers.) When a chain, rope, or cable is used as a connection, a white flag not less than 12 inches square must be attached to it.
Carbon Monoxide
Beware of carbon monoxide poisoning. Cars produce carbon monoxide which is deadly gas. Make sure you are getting
plenty of fresh air.
Don’t:
1. Leave the motor running in a garage
2. Leave vents open when following closely behind another car
3. Leave the motor running and the windows closed while the car is parked
4. Drive with a defective muffler or exhaust system
5. Use the heater or air conditioner in a parked car with the windows closed
Do:
1. Move a victim of carbon monoxide poisoning to fresh air
2. Give artificial respiration
Steering Lock Operation
Vehicles have various systems used to remove the key from the ignition. Some ignitions automatically lock the steering
wheel if the key is removed while moving. Here are some common steering wheel lock systems with a description on how
to remove the key.
Table 40: Steering Wheel Lock Parking Systems
Type of Parking
System
Description
Transmission park system
Shift the transmission into the park position. Turn the key to lock then remove the key.
Two hand button system
This system requires two hands. Depress the button below the steering column. Turn the key to lock then
remove the key.
Lever system
Depress the lever located near the ignition. Turn the key to lock then remove the key.
One hand button system
Depress the button located near the ignition. Turn the key to lock then remove the key.
Push in system
Turn the key to off and push in. Turn the key to lock then remove the key.
Turn and remove system
Turn the key to lock then remove the key.
Source: 1992 Automobile Safety Foundation
68
Appendix A: Glossary of Terms
Texas Driver Handbook
Appendix A: Glossary of Terms
-Aacceleration lane – a lane that permits drivers entering a highway to accelerate to the speed of traffic
aggressive driving – the behavior of driving in a combative, forceful, or competitive manner
angle parking – the vehicle is parked diagonally to the curb
-Bbackup lights – white lights at the rear of the vehicle telling other drivers you are backing up
basic speed law – you may not drive faster than is safe and prudent for existing conditions, regardless of posted speed limits
bicycle – every device propelled by human power upon which any person may ride, having two tandem wheels either of which
is more than 14 inches in diameter
blind spot – an area rearview mirrors cannot show
blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) – the amount of alcohol in the blood expressed as a percentage of ethyl alcohol related to
the volume of fluids in the bloodstream
blowout – the sudden loss of tire air pressure while driving
bodily-injury insurance – covers the driver who is at fault against claims
braking distance – the distance a vehicle travels from the time brakes are applied until it stops
-Ccancellation – the withdrawal of a driver license or privilege until the driver is qualified or eligible
carbon monoxide – colorless, odorless, tasteless gas contained in the exhaust fumes of gasoline engines
center of gravity – point around which the vehicle’s weight is evenly distributed
central vision – the field of vision around your focal vision in which you can see clearly while looking straight ahead that aids in
determining vehicle position to the road
clutch pedal – the pedal in a manual transmission vehicle that enables a driver to shift gears
collision – contact between two or more objects, as when two vehicles collide into each other
collision insurance – provides insurance coverage to pay the costs of repair or replacement of your vehicle involved in a collision
color-blindness – inability to distinguish colors
commercial motor vehicle –a vehicle used to transport/deliver goods or passengers for compensation between points on a fixed
scheduled route. The vehicle:
1. has a gross combination weight or gross combination weight rating of 26,001 or more pounds, including a towed unit with
a gross vehicle weight or gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds;
2. has a gross vehicle weight or a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 or more pounds;
3. is designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver or
4. is transporting hazardous materials and is required to be placarded under 49 C.F.R. part 172, Subpart F.
comprehensive insurance – provides coverage for replacement or repair of your vehicle from damage other than from a collision
controlled-access highway – a highway where vehicles can enter and exit only at interchanges
controlled braking – reducing speed by firmly stepping on and squeezing the brake pedal and maintaining steering control of
the vehicle
controlled intersection – the intersection at which signals or signs determine the right of way
controlled railroad crossing – railroad crossing controlled by flashing red lights and/or crossing gates
crossbuck – large white X-shaped sign located prior to a railroad crossing
-Ddeceleration lane – expressway lane used to slow your vehicle without blocking vehicles behind you
defensive driving – protecting yourself and others from dangerous and unexpected driving situations by using a space management system
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Appendix A: Glossary of Terms
Texas Driver Handbook
delayed green light – indicates one side of the intersection has a green light while the light for oncoming traffic remains red
denial – the withholding of a driver license or privilege because the person is ineligible for a license. A driver license may be
issued when eligibility requirements are met.
depressant – drug that slows the response of the central nervous system
depth perception – the ability to judge distance between yourself and other objects
designated driver – the person who decides ahead of time not to drink alcoholic beverages and is appointed to drive others who
do drink
distractions – When a driver is delayed in the recognition of information needed to accomplish the driving task safely because
some event, activity, object, or person within or outside the vehicle compelled or tended to induce the driver’s shifting attention
away from the driving task.
drag race – the operation of:
1. Two or more vehicles from a point side by side at accelerating speeds in a competitive attempt to outdistance each other; or
2. One or more vehicles over a common selected course, from the same place to the same place, for the purpose of comparing
speeds or power of acceleration of the vehicle(s) in a specified distance of time.
driving under the influence (DUI) – a Class C misdemeanor for which a minor can be charged in Texas if driving with any
detectable amount of alcohol in the minor’s system (An offense for which a driver can be charged in some states if the driver’s
blood-alcohol concentration is above 0.05.)
driving while intoxicated (DWI) – an offense for which a driver can be charged in all states if the driver’s blood-alcohol concentration is above a certain level
-Eentrance ramp – a ramp leading onto a highway
exit ramp – a ramp leading off a highway
-Ffield of vision – all the area a person can see while looking straight ahead.
field sobriety test – series of on-the-spot, road-side tests that help an officer detect impairment of a driver suspected of DUI or
DWI.
financial responsibility law – a law requiring you to prove you can pay for collision damages you cause that result in death,
injury, or property damage
flashing signal – traffic signal alerting drivers to dangerous conditions or tells them to stop
focus vision (fovial) – the part of the vision field which allows the driver to read signs and make distinctions between vehicles
and objects often measured as visual acuity
following interval – the time recommended to follow another vehicle in the intended path of travel. Select an object near the
road surface. When the vehicle ahead passes that object, start counting one thousand-one, one thousand-two, etc., until the front
of your car reaches the same object. For speeds under 30 mph, the minimum time with good road conditions is 2 seconds. For
speeds above 30 mph, maintain 4 seconds (more for adverse conditions) of following time. Developing a four-second following
interval is the best practice for a beginning or less experienced driver.
force of impact – the force with which one moving object hits another object; this varies according to speed, weight, and distance
between impact and stop, and is based on forces of inertia and momentum
friction – the force creating heat which helps the tire maintain traction on the road, unless too much heat is generated which may
cause traction loss due to melting of tire rubber on the road
-Ggap – time or distance interval between vehicles on road
glare recovery time – the time your eyes need to regain clear vision after being affected by glare
glare resistance – the ability to continue seeing when looking at bright lights
graduated driver license program – requires young drivers to progress through a series of licensing stages with various restrictions such as accompanying drivers, times permitted to drive, and allowable passengers
guide sign – a sign providing directions, distances, services, points of interest, or other information
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Appendix A: Glossary of Terms
Texas Driver Handbook
-Hhallucinogen – mind-altering drug that tends to distort a person’s perception of direction, distance, and time
hazard flasher – a device that flashes front turn signal lights and taillights to warn others the vehicle is a hazard
head restraints – specially designed air bag or padded devices on the backs of front seats helping to reduce whiplash injuries in
a side or rear impact collision
highway hypnosis – drowsy or trance-like condition caused by concentration on the road ahead and monotony of driving
hydroplaning – occurs when a tire patch loses contact with the road by rising up on top of water
highway – The width between the boundary lines of a publicly maintained way any part of which is open to the public for vehicular travel.
-Iignition interlock device – a special mechanical control device installed on a motor vehicle’s dashboard. A driver must exhale
into the device to start the vehicle. The court-ordered installation of an interlock ignition device must be performed by a DPScertified service center.
implied-consent law – anyone who receives a driver license automatically consents to be tested for blood-alcohol content and
other drugs if stopped for suspicion of drug use while driving
intoxilyzer – the breath-test instrument machine commonly used for determining blood-alcohol content
-J-K-Llane change – lateral maneuver moving the vehicle from one lane to another using proper space management procedures
lane signal – a signal, usually overhead, indicating if a lane can or cannot be used at a specific time
liability insurance – provides compensation for damages which the insured is legally obligated to pay; covers others when you
are at fault
light truck – a truck with a manufacturer’s rated carrying capacity of not more than 2,000 lbs., including a pick up truck, panel
delivery truck, and carry-all truck
limited use lanes – traffic flow lanes posted and designed to accommodate special vehicles or carpools
-Mmedian – area of ground separating traffic moving in opposite directions
merging area – stretch of road at the end of an acceleration lane on an expressway where vehicles join the flow of traffic
minimum speed limit – speed limit to keep traffic moving safely by not allowing drivers to drive slower than a certain speed
moped – A motor-driven cycle that cannot attain a speed in one mile of more than 30 mph and the engine:
a. Cannot produce more than two-brake horsepower; and
b. If an internal combustion engine, has a piston displacement of 50 cubic centimeters or less and connects to a power drive
system that does not require the operator to shift gears. Two-wheeled vehicle that can be driven with either a motor or pedal.
motorcycle – a motor vehicle, other than a tractor, equipped with a rider’s saddle and designed to have when propelled not more
than three wheels on the ground
motor-driven cycle – a motorcycle equipped with an engine displacement of 250 cubic centimeters or less. The term does not
include an electric bicycle
-Nnight blindness – not being able to see well at night
no-fault insurance – covers an insured’s losses and expenses associated with a collision regardless of fault
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Appendix A: Glossary of Terms
Texas Driver Handbook
-Oodometer – the device on the instrument panel indicating the total number of miles the vehicle has been driven
over driving headlights – driving at a speed making your stopping distance longer than the distance lighted by your headlights;
low beams are limited to 45 mph and high beams are limited to 65 mph for stopping purposes
oversteer – when the rear tire patches lose varying degrees of traction and the front tire patches have more traction causing a
spinning effect (yaw) around the vehicle’s center of gravity. The vehicle has a tendency to spin to the left or right even though
the driver is not turning the steering wheel.
overtake – to pass the vehicle ahead
over-the-counter medicine – drug that can be obtained legally without a doctor’s prescription
-Pparallel parking – the vehicle lines up parallel or going the same direction as the curb. When parallel parking, the vehicle must
be 6 to 18 inches from the curb
passive restraint device – a restraint device, such as an air bag or an automatic safety belt, that works without the passenger or
driver initiating the device
pedestrian – a person on foot
pedestrian signal – a signal used at traffic intersections that indicates when a person should walk or wait
peer pressure – mental and social influence of others of a similar age on decision-making skills
perception distance – the distance your vehicle travels during perception time
perception time – the length of time it takes for the driver to make a risk-reduction decision
peripheral vision – the area a person can see that is around the central field of vision
perpendicular parking – the vehicle is parked at a right angle to a curb or parking stripe using visual reference points for entering and leaving
prescription medicine – drug that can be purchased legally only when ordered by a doctor
preventive maintenance – routine care and attention to your vehicle
property-damage insurance – protects the driver who is at fault against claims for damages to another person’s property, up to
specified limits
protected left turn – left turn made on a left-turn, green arrow, or delayed green light while oncoming traffic is stopped
protective gear – the items a motorcyclist wears to protect head, eyes, and body
-Q-Rrace – The use of one or more vehicles in an attempt to:
1. Out gain or outdistance another vehicle or prevent another vehicle from passing;
2. Arrive at a given destination ahead of another vehicle(s); or
3. Test the physical stamina or endurance of an operator over a long-distance driving route.
reaction distance – the distance a vehicle travels from the point the driver perceives the need to act and the point where the
driver takes action through braking, steering, or acceleration. Distance your vehicle travels until the driver perceives the need
to change speed or position.
reaction time – the time the vehicle travels from the point the driver perceives the need to act and the point where the driver
takes the action through braking, steering, or acceleration. Length of time it takes the driver to execute a reduced-risk action,
after a response is perceived by the driver.
reduced visibility – the inability of a driver to see clearly
reference point – a part of the outside or inside of a vehicle, as viewed from the driver’s seat, that relates to some part of the road
which allows the driver to estimate position on the road. The road positions (points of reference) of the vehicle assist the driver
in determining when to start turning, vehicle limitations, or where the vehicle is actually located.
regulatory sign – a sign controlling traffic
restraint device – any part of a vehicle holding an occupant in the seat during a collision
restricted interlock license – authorizes an individual to operate a motor vehicle equipped with an ignition interlock device.
72
Appendix A: Glossary of Terms
Texas Driver Handbook
revocation – the termination of a driver license or privilege for an indefinite period of time. May be restored when all requirements for the revocation have been satisfied
right of way – privilege of having immediate use of a certain part of a road
right turn on red – turning right when the red signal is on, after stopping behind the intersection guides, unless specifically
prohibited to turn
roadway marking – markings and lane delineators (reflectors) providing you with warning or direction
rocking a vehicle – repeating the sequence of driving forward a little then back a little to move your vehicle out of deep snow,
mud, or sand
rumble strips – sections of rough pavement intended to alert drivers of approaching roadway construction, tollbooth plaza, or
other traffic conditions.
-Ssafety belt – a lap belt and any shoulder straps included as original equipment on or added to a vehicle
safety chains – backup link used in case a trailer hitch fails
school zone – portion of a street or highway near a school subject to special speed limits
shared left-turn lane – the lane on a busy street helping drivers make safe mid-block left turns into business areas from a center
lane
skid – Occurs when tire patches lose part or all of their traction on the roadway surface due to abrupt suspension balance or
roadway surfaces conditions
skid mark – a mark on the road surface from a tire sliding due to a loss of traction from braking or abrupt steering.
slow-moving vehicle – the vehicle is unable to travel at highway speed
speed smear – occurs when objects in your peripheral vision become blurred and distorted as your speed increases
staggered stop – stopping when the white line visually disappears under the hood line. This allows extra space for left-turning
vehicles.
standard reference point – point which allows for vehicle placement on a road typical for most drivers
stimulant – drug that speeds up the central nervous system
stopping position – stopping behind a vehicle in a position allowing the driver enough space to steer around the vehicle to avoid
a stalled, turning, or backing vehicle
suspension – the temporary withdrawal of a driver license or privilege for a definite period of time
-Ttailgate – to follow another vehicle too closely
total stopping distance – the distance your vehicle travels while you make a stop
traction – friction or gripping power between the tire patches and the road surface
traffic circle – the intersections that form when several roads meet at a circle
traffic control devices – any signal, sign, or pavement marking used to control the movement of traffic
traffic signal – any signal used to control the movement of traffic
tunnel vision – the ability to see in a narrow field of vision of 140 degrees or less with little effective peripheral vision
turn – vehicle maneuver to change direction to the left or right
turnabout – the maneuvers for turning into or out of a road/driveway using reference points for positioning
-Uuncontrolled intersection – an intersection that has no signs or signals to regulate traffic including railroad crossings that do not
have flashing red lights or crossing gates
under-insured motorist insurance – covers costs exceeding the amount the other person’s insurance company will pay as a
result of a collision caused by another’s fault
uninsured motorist insurance – covers costs up to a certain amount if you are struck by another vehicle whose driver has no
insurance
73
Appendix A: Glossary of Terms
Texas Driver Handbook
unprotected left turn – left turn made at a signal-controlled intersection without a special left turn light
urban district – the territory adjacent to and including a highway, if the territory is improved with structures used for business,
industry, or dwelling houses and are located at intervals of less than 100 feet for a distance of at least one-quarter mile on either
side of the highway
-Vvehicle – a device, in, upon, or by which any person or property is or may be transported or drawn upon a highway, excepting
devices used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks
vehicle malfunctions – failures of the vehicle to perform as designed, such as tire, steering, suspension, acceleration, fuel, etc.
vehicle maintenance – the scheduled or unscheduled upkeep or repair of a vehicle
vehicle maneuvers – moving forward, moving backward, turning, lateral maneuvers, and turnabouts
visibility – the ability to see
-Wwarning sign – a sign alerting you to possible hazards and road conditions
warning light – an instrument panel light warning of a system malfunction and usually stays on while the system is malfunctioning
-X-Yyield – to allow another vehicle or roadway user to proceed first
-Zzero tolerance law – it is illegal for individuals who are under 21 years of age to drive with any measurable amount of alcohol
in their blood
74
Appendix B: Driver License Offices
Texas Driver Handbook
Appendix B: Driver License Offices
Full-Time Driver License Offices
Full-time (FT) driver license offices are open from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Some offices offer
extended hours and a few offices routinely close during the noon hour. In addition, some offices offer online scheduling.
To see if an office near you offers online scheduling, visit our website at www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense and schedule
an appointment.
Scheduled Driver License Offices
Scheduled (S) driver license offices are usually staffed with only one customer service representative. Depending on
the location, the customer service representative is required to be away from the office part of the day while conducting
driving tests and other DPS business. Please contact the scheduled driver license office prior to visiting to determine the
customer service representative’s work schedule for that particular day.
Mega Center Offices
Mega Centers (MC) are full-time driver license offices but offer additional alternatives to waiting in line for a driver
license or ID card. Mega Centers are staffed by at least 25 employees, can process up to 1,000 customers per day, and have
plenty of parking. With over 20 automated testing stations, more than 400 customers can take a knowledge test each day.
Mega Centers also provide customers the option to get in line using a text-enabled cell phone (restricted or blocked cell
phone numbers will not work). Once customers are in line, the system will send text alerts informing them of when their
spot in line approaches.
*Information regarding driver license offices is current at the time of printing. For the most up-to-date information on any
driver license office, including specific hours of operation, visit our website at www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense
City
Phone No.
Address
Zip Code
Office
Type
Abilene
(325) 695-0988
Ext. 54237
4649 South First Street
79605-7213
FT
Alice
(361) 664-2113
300 South Johnson Street
78332-5650
FT
Alpine
(432) 837-7580
3500 N Hwy 118
79830
FT
Alvin
(281) 585-4525
109 West Coombs
77511-2440
FT
Amarillo
(806) 468-1400
Ext. 51460
4200 Canyon Drive
79109-5678
FT
Andrews
(432) 524-1425
201 North Main Street # 210, County Courthouse
79714
FT
Angleton
(979) 849-5711
501 South Velasco
77515-6017
FT
Anson
(325) 823-3631
1110 West Court Plaza
79501-4315
S
Aransas Pass
(361) 758-8680
913 South Commercial
78336-5303
FT
Arlington
(817) 274-1818
3901 W Arkansas, Suite 111
76016-1400
FT
Athens
(903) 675-6091
511 Hwy 175 West
75751
FT
Austin North
(512) 424-2076
6121 North Lamar Blvd
78752
FT
Austin Northwest
(512) 464-3763
13730 Research Blvd (US Hwy 183 N)
78750-1812
FT
Austin - Pflugerville Mega Center
(512) 486-2804
216 E Wells Branch Parkway
78660
MC
Austin South
(512) 444-5291
6425 South IH-35, Suite 180
78744
FT
Baird
(325) 854-5844
100 West 4th Street, Callahan County Courthouse
79504
S
Ballinger
(325) 365-2161
602 Strong Ave., Runnels County Courthouse Annex
76821
S
Bastrop
(512) 581-7152
305 Eskew Street
78602-3828
FT
Bay City
(979) 245-9353
510 Avenue F
77414-3187
FT
Baytown
(281) 424-1339
5420 Decker Dr.
77520-1448
FT
Beaumont
(409) 924-5400
7200 Eastex Freeway
77708-3830
FT
Beeville
(361) 358-6272
400 South Hillside
78102-5375
FT
Big Lake
(325) 884-2301
300 Plaza, Courthouse Annex
76932
S
Big Spring
(432) 267-5671
5725 IH-20 West
79721
S
75
Appendix B: Driver License Offices
City
Texas Driver Handbook
Phone No.
Address
Zip Code
Office
Type
Boerne
(830) 249-6335
1415 East Blanco, Suite 2
78006
FT
Bonham
(903) 583-5613
1203 East Sam Rayburn
75418-4945
FT
Borger
(806) 273-2453
3249 Fairlanes Blvd
79007-8087
FT
Bowie
(940) 872-1496
603 Decatur Street
76230
S
Brady
(325) 597-1188
306 W Lockhart Street
76825
FT
Breckenridge
(254) 599-2664
200 West Walker Street, County Courthouse
76424
S
Brenham
(979) 836-2020
975 Highway 290 West
77833
FT
Brownfield
(806) 637-3625
Ext 50023
802 North Ballard
79316-3701
FT
Brownsville
(956) 983-1920
2901 Paredes Line Road
78526-1156
FT
Brownwood
(325) 646-0180
1516 Market Place Blvd.
76801-1733
FT
Bryan
(979) 776-3110
2571 N Earl Rudder Frwy
77803
FT
Burnet
(512) 756-5405
1701 E Polk Street, Burnet County Courthouse Annex
78611
S
Caldwell
(979) 567-2315
100 West Buck, Rm 106 Burleson County Courthouse
75633
S
Cameron
(254) 697-2956
512 N Jefferson Ave., Suite E
76520-3939
S
Canadian
(806) 323-9898
400 Main Street, Hemphill County Courthouse
79014
S
Canton
(903) 567-2346
1601 North Trade Days Blvd
75103-9776
FT
Carthage
(903) 693-3261
110 South Sycamore, Room 101 County Courthouse
75633-2546
FT
Carrollton
(972) 245-5800
2625 Old Denton Road, Suite 464
75007-5130
FT
Cedar Hill
(469) 272-9301
116 W Beltine, Suite 2
75104-2011
FT
Center
(936) 598-6152
1281 Southview Circle
75935
FT
Centerville
(903) 536-3095
125 East Main Street
75833
S
Childress
(940) 937-2560
1700 Ave F NW, Suite A
79201-3321
FT
Claredon
(806) 874-5188
723 West 2nd Street
79226
S
Clarksville
(903) 427-2931
500 North Cedar
75426-2702
FT
Cleburne
(817) 202-2650
600 West Kilpatrick
76033-7467
FT
Cleveland
(281) 592-5983
304 Campbell Road, Room #123
77327-9737
FT
Coleman
(325) 625-2600
100 West Live Oak
76834
S
Colorado City
(325) 728-5214
333 Pine Street
79512
S
Columbus
(979) 732-3451
3229 Columbus Loop
78934
FT
Comanche
(325) 356-3222
211 South Austin Street
76442-3263
FT
Conroe
(936) 442-2810
#2 Hilbig Street
77301-1406
FT
Copperas Cove
(254) 547-9130
201 South 2nd Street, Suite 5
76522-2235
FT
Corpus Christi
(361) 698-5626
1922 South Padre Island Drive
78416-1399
FT
Corsicana
(903) 872-5631
3030 S Hwy 287
75109
FT
Crane
(432) 558-3292
1212 S. Alford Street
79731
S
Crockett
(936) 544-5917
1125 E Loop 304
75835-1809
FT
Crosbyton
(806) 675-2131
215 South Berkshire
79322-2549
S
Crystal City
(830) 374-2222
200 Uvalde, Suite 6, County Courthouse
78839-3547
FT
Cuero
(361) 275-6154
208 East Live Oak Street
77954
FT
Daingerfield
(903) 645-2363
500 Broadnax, Suite G Courthouse
75638-1340
FT
Dalhart
(806) 244-4332
402 Denver Ave.
79022
S
Dallas East
(214) 553-0033
11411 E Northwest Hwy, Suite 111
75218
FT
Dallas Southwest
(214) 330-3958
5610 Red Bird Center, Suite 500
75237
FT
Decatur
(940) 627-5694
2000 South Trinity
76234-1827
FT
Del Rio
(830) 703-1225
2012 Veterans Blvd
78840-3040
FT
Denton
(940) 484-6666
820 North Loop 288
76209-3699
FT
Denver City
(806) 592-2873
201 N. Main St, Suite B
79323-2700
FT
76
Appendix B: Driver License Offices
City
Texas Driver Handbook
Phone No.
Address
Zip Code
Office
Type
Dimmitt
(806) 647-4350
100 East Bedford Rm 110, County Courthouse
79027
S
Dumas
(806) 935-5058
817 South Bliss Ave.
79029-4437
S
Eagle Pass
(830) 773-5050
32 Foster-Maldonado Blvd
78852-5757
FT
Eastland
(254) 629-8383
Ext. 50401
1002 Lago Vista
76448-3056
FT
Emory
(903) 473-2804
109 Wood
75440
S
El Paso Northwest
(915) 877-1647
1854 Northwestern
79912-1122
FT
El Paso Gateway
(915) 598-3487
7300 Gateway East
79915-79915
FT
El Paso Hondo Pass
(915) 751-6455
4505 Hondo Pass
79904-1308
FT
El Paso Scott Simpson
(915) 849-4100
11612 Scott Simpson
79936-6210
FT
Fairfield
(903) 389-5050
118 E Commerce Street, Suite 101
75840
S
Falfurrias
(361) 325-4500
Ext. 3
217 East Miller Street, Brooks-Blumer Bldg.
78355
S
Floresville
(830) 393-7216
800 10th Street, # 3
78114-1831
FT
Floydada
(806) 983-2217
105 South Main Street, Suite 107 County Courthouse
79235-2736
S
Fort Bliss
(915) 568-8631
505-A Pershing Road, Room A154
79916
FT
Fort Hood
(254) 532-9786
Hood Road, Bldg 69012
76544
FT
Fort Stockton
(432) 336-5001
2302 W Dickinson
79735
FT
Fort Worth East
(817) 413-6318
3500 Miller Ave., Charles F. Griffin Sub Courthouse
76119
S
Fort Worth South
(817) 294-1075
6413 Woodway Drive
76133-5536
FT
Fort Worth - Mega Center
(817) 285-1900
8301 Brentwood Stair Road
76120
MC
Fredericksburg
(830) 997-1932
125 W Main Street, #L30
78624-3700
FT
Friona
(806) 250-2711
102 East 8th Street
79035
S
Gainesville
(940) 665-3924
206 W California
76240-3905
FT
Galveston
(409) 740-0031
6812 Broadway
77554-8906
FT
Garland
(214) 861-2125
350 West IH-30
75043-5998
FT
Garland - Mega Center
(214) 861-3700
4445-A Saturn Road
75041
MC
Gatesville
(254) 865-2444
606 B Leon Street
76528-1313
FT
George West
(361) 449-2733
301 Houston, Live Oak County Courthouse Annex Rm. 14
78022
S
Georgetown
(512) 863-5816
515 S. Pine Street (7th and Pine)
78626-5100
FT
Giddings
(979) 542-0246
170 E Industry
78942
S
Gilmer
(903) 797-2751
713 State Hwy 155 North
75644
FT
Goldthwaite
(325) 648-2266
1011 4th Street, Rm 303
76844
S
Gonzales
(830) 672-3328
1709 Sarah Dewitt Drive
78629-2613
FT
Graham
(940) 549-1490
142 North Elm
76450-5917
FT
Grand Prairie
(972) 264-6598
555 S Carrier Pkwy, Suite 570
75051-1555
FT
Grandbury
(817) 573-7381
1402 W. Pearl Street
76048-1876
FT
Greenville
(903) 453-6916
2801 Stuart Street, Room 408
75401-4345
FT
Groesbeck
(254) 729-5554
1221 E. Yeagua
76642-2008
S
Hallettsville
(361) 798-9398
412 N. Texana
77964
S
Hamilton
(254) 386-3789
101 West Henry
76531
S
Harlingen
(956) 440-6725
1630 North 77 Sunshine Strip
78550-4299
FT
Haskell
(940) 864-2448
1 North Avenue D, Haskell County Courthouse
79521
S
Hempstead
(979) 826-7649
235 Hwy 290 East
77445
FT
Henderson
(903) 657-6095
325 Fair Park
75654
FT
Hereford
(806) 364-6481
807 West 15th Street
79045-5517
FT
Hillsboro
(254) 582-5044
126 S Covington
76645-2139
FT
Hondo
(830) 426-8975
702 Harper
78861
FT
77
Appendix B: Driver License Offices
City
Texas Driver Handbook
Zip Code
Office
Type
4545 Dacoma
77092-8613
FT
Phone No.
Address
Houston-Dacoma
(713) 683-0541
Houston-Winkler
(713) 943-0631
9206 Winkler
77017
FT
Houston-Grant Road
(281) 890-5440
10503 Grant Road
77070-4407
FT
Houston - Gessner Mega Center
(713) 219-4100
12220 South Gessner
77071-2831
MC
Houston - Spring Mega Center
(281) 517-1620
4740 Spring Cypress Road, Suite 100
77379
MC
Houston-East
(713) 633-9872
11039 East Freeway (IH-10), Suite B
77029
FT
Houston-Townhurst
(713) 465-8462
1601 Townhurst Drive
77043-3226
FT
Houston-Vantage
(281) 449-2685
15403 Vantage Pkwy East, Suite 300
77032
FT
Humble
(281) 446-3391
7710 Will Clayton Pkwy
77338-5801
FT
Huntsville
(936) 295-1578
523 State Hwy. 75 N.
77320-8419
FT
Hurst
(817) 299-1426
624 Northeast Loop 820
76053-5299
FT
Irving
(972) 253-4171
1003 West 6th Street
75060-3875
FT
Jacksonville
(903) 586-5631
506 E Pine
75766-4566
FT
Jasper
(409) 384-5712
2398 West Gibson
75951-9209
FT
Jourdanton
(830) 769-2277
1102 Campbell
78026-3508
FT
Junction
No Phone
501 Main Street, County Courthouse
76849
S
Kermit
(432) 586-3134
401 S Pine Street
79745
S
Kerrville
(830) 258-5750
311 Sidney Baker South
78028-2103
FT
Killeen
(254) 634-1919
302 Priest Drive
76541-7137
FT
Kingsville
(361) 592-1911
725 E Yoakum Ave. Kleberge County Courthouse
Ed Lopez Bldg
78363
FT
Kountze
(409) 246-3662
440 W Monroe Street
77625
S
Lake Worth
(817) 238-9197
5816 Azle Avenue
76135-3602
FT
Lamesa
(806) 872-8675
608 North Main Street
79331-4621
FT
Lampasas
(512) 556-6871
1690 North US Hwy 281
76550-1145
S
Laredo
(956) 728-2301
1901 Bob Bullock Loop
78043-9771
FT
Levelland
(806) 894-7026
1212 Houston Street, Suite 4
79336
FT
Lewisville
(972) 221-8081
190 North Valley Pkwy, Suite 201
75067
FT
Liberty
(936) 336-7343
2103 Cos Street
77575-4957
FT
Linden
(903) 756-8452
604 Hwy. 8 North
75563
FT
Littlefield
(806) 385-5679
100 West 6th Street, Lamb County Courthouse,
Room B-06
79339-3306
FT
Livingston
(936) 327-6806
1737 North Washington Ave.
77351-2127
FT
Llano
(325) 247-5488
100 W Sandstone, Courthouse Annex, Rm 200
78643-2319
S
Longview
(903) 758-1788
416 Lake Lamond Road
75604-5838
FT
Lubbock
(806) 472-8700
Ext. 58950
1404 Lubbock Business Park Blvd., #100
79403
FT
Lufkin
(936) 699-7331
2809 South John Redditt Drive
75904-5670
FT
Marble Falls
(830) 798-3222
810 Steve Hawkins Pkwy, Courthouse Annex, Suite 5
78654-6345
FT
Marshall
(903) 938-2171
5215 West Loop 390 N
75670
FT
McAllen
(956) 565-7200
1414 North Bicentennial Blvd
78501-4499
FT
McKinney
(214) 733-5350
400 Powerhouse Street
75071-1814
FT
Meridian
(254) 435-2913
500 State Hwy 174
76665
S
Midland
(432) 498-2355
2405 South Loop 250 West
79703
FT
Mineral Wells
(940) 325-0227
600 FM 1821 North
76067-9118
FT
Monahans
(432) 943-4701
3600 S Stockton
79756
S
Mission - Palmview
(956) 205-7070
722 North Breyfogle Road, Suite A
78572
FT
Mount Pleasant
(903) 575-5383
1906 N Jefferson
75455-2335
FT
Muleshoe
(806) 272-3860
300 South First Street, Room 302
79347-3621
FT
78
Appendix B: Driver License Offices
City
Texas Driver Handbook
Phone No.
Address
Zip Code
Office
Type
Munday
(940) 422-4331
121 East Main Street, City Hall
76371
S
Nacogdoches
(936) 560-5826
5407 N US Hwy 59
75964
FT
New Boston
(903) 628-6822
710 James Bowie Drive
75570-2322
FT
New Braunfels
(830) 625-8111
3003 IH-35 South
78130-7027
FT
Odessa
(432) 332-0637
1910 IH-20 West
79763-4901
FT
Orange
(409) 883-0273
711 US Hwy 87
77631
FT
Ozona
(325) 392-0523
1503 Monterrey Street
76943
S
Palestine
(903) 661-5030
1900 W Spring
75803-7940
FT
Pampa
(806) 665-7160
2909 Perryton Pkwy
79065-2811
FT
Panhandle
(806) 537-3622
Ext. 233
501 Main Street, Carson County Courthouse
79068
S
Paris
(903) 784-3800
2885 North Main Street
75460-2257
FT
Pasadena
(713) 473-3232
2783 Red Bluff Road, #100
77503-2915
FT
Pecos
(432) 447-3532
148 North Frontage Road, I-20 West
79772
S
Perryton
(806) 435-4642
101 SW 4th Street
79070-3003
FT
Pierce
(979) 541-4590
19692 US Hwy 59, El Campo
77467
FT
Plainview
(806) 293-2508
1108 South Columbia
79072
FT
Plano
(972) 867-4221
2109 West Parker Road, Suite 224
75023-7739
FT
Port Arthur
(409) 982-1131
900 4th Street
77640-6513
FT
Port Lavaca
(361) 552-5046
201 West Austin Street
77979
FT
Presidio
(432) 229-3768
800A N Business Hwy 67
79845
FT
Quanah
(940) 663-2235
314 Mercer Street, Hardeman County Courthouse
79252
S
Quitman
(903) 763-4212
211 West Bermuda, Courthouse Annex
75783
FT
Rio Grande City
(956) 716-4844
515 North FM 3167
78582
FT
Roby
(325) 776-3276
112 North Concho, County Courthouse
79543
S
Rockwall
(214) 861-2029
915 Whitmore Drive, Suite C
75087-4217
FT
Rosenberg Mega Center
(281) 517-1630
Ext. 26811
28000 Southwest Freeway, Suite A
77471
MC
San Angelo
(325) 223-6903
1600 West Loop 306
76904
FT
San Antonio-Babcock
(210) 737-1911
1258 Babcock Road
78201-6644
FT
San Antonio Leon Valley Mega Center
(210) 531-1000
7410 Huebner Road
78240
MC
San Antonio-Southeast
(210) 531-2241
6502 South New Braunfels Ave.
78223-3099
FT
San Antonio-General McMullen
(210) 436-6611
1803 South General McMullen
78226-1127
FT
San Marcos
(512) 353-2770
1400 North IH-35
78666-7235
FT
Seguin
(830) 379-6802
1440 East Kingsbury
78155-4097
FT
Seminole
(432) 758-3112
101 South Main, Room 105
79360
FT
Seymour
(940) 889-2426
101 South Washington Street,
Baylor County Courthouse, Suite 1
76380
S
Sherman
(903) 813-3420
1413 Texoma Pkwy
75090-3803
FT
Sinton
(361) 364-1956
120 E Fulton Street
78387
FT
Snyder
(325) 573-5631
Ext. 50325
501 E 37th Street
79549-2889
S
Sonora
(325) 387-5701
102 N Water Ave., County Courthouse
76950
S
Stanton
(432) 607-3511
301 N St. Peter Street
79782
S
Stephenville
(254) 965-7894
850 East Road
76401-5408
FT
Sulphur Springs
(903) 885-1825
1528 E Shannon Road
75482-3026
FT
Sweetwater
(325) 235-2662
600 NW Georgia Ave.
79556-7712
FT
Taylor
(512) 238-2160
412 Vance #2
76574-3500
FT
79
Appendix B: Driver License Offices
City
Texas Driver Handbook
Zip Code
Office
Type
6612 S General Bruce Drive
76502-5832
FT
Phone No.
Address
Temple
(254) 770-6734
Terrell
(972) 551-7000
111 Tejas Drive
75160-6567
FT
Texarkana
(903) 225-5750
1516 Hampton Road
75503-1811
FT
Texas City
(409) 933-1130
1325 Amburn Road
77591-2469
FT
Tulia
(806) 995-3813
310 West Broadway, Suite 137
79088-2245
S
Tyler
(903) 939-6015
4700 University Blvd
75707
FT
Universal City
(210) 945-1900
1633 Pat Booker Road
78148-3432
FT
Uvalde
(830) 278-5630
2901 East Main Street
78801-4932
FT
Van Horn
(432) 283-2039
1300 North Frontage Road, IH-10
79855
S
Vernon
(940) 552-6372
1700 Wilbarger Street
Willbarger County Courthouse, Room B-6
76384-4747
FT
Victoria
(361) 578-3450
8802 North Navarro Blvd.
77904-1427
FT
Waco
(254) 759-7121
1617 East Crest Drive
76705-1555
FT
Wallisville
(409) 389-2491
20906 IH-10
77597
FT
Waxahachie
(972) 923-6780
1720 E Main Street
75165-4701
FT
Weatherford
(817) 599-7631
1309 South Bowie Drive
76086-5012
FT
Webster (Clear Lake Area)
(281) 486-8242
111 Tristar Drive
77598
FT
Weslaco
(956) 565-7200
2525 N International Blvd.
78599
FT
Wichita Falls
(940) 851-5647
5505 North Central Freeway
76306-1009
FT
Woodville
(409) 283-7757
1001 West Bluff Street
75979-4735
S
Zapata
(956) 765-9917
607 North US Hwy 83, Suite F
78076
FT
80
Appendix C: Study and Review Questions for Class C Operators
Texas Driver Handbook
Appendix C
Study and Review Questions for Class C Operators
1.What is the minimum age at which you can get a Class C driver license without either driver education or being
a hardship case? (Chpt. 1)
2.How much is the maximum fine for a first conviction of driving without a license? (Chpt. 1)
3.What type of restrictions may be placed on your license? (Chpt. 1)
4.In what direction should you turn your wheels when parking uphill without a curb? (Chpt. 7)
5.What action should you take if you fail to receive the renewal notice card reminding you that your driver license
is about to expire? (Chpt. 1)
6.On a one-way street, what color is the broken lane marker? (Chpt. 5)
7.Describe the “Yield” sign. (Chpt. 5)
8.What does a “Narrow Bridge” sign look like, and how should the driver react when he sees one? (Chpt. 5)
9.What is the shape of a “Keep Right” sign, and how should the driver react when he sees one? (Chpt. 5)
10.Which sign tells you to slow down because you are approaching a double curve? (Chpt. 5)
11.What does a “Do Not Pass” sign mean? (Chpt. 5)
12.Which sign tells you to keep in the right-hand lane when driving slow? (Chpt. 5)
13.What does “Yield Right-of-Way” mean? (Chpt. 4, 5)
14.Describe the equipment required on passenger cars by state law. (Chpt. 2)
15.What is the purpose of an exhaust emission system? (Chpt. 2)
16.Describe the types of equipment which Texas state law specifically forbids on passenger cars driven within the
state. (Chpt. 2)
17.How should you react when a traffic officer tells you to do something which is ordinarily considered to be
against the law? (Chpt. 5)
18.Once the brakes have been applied, about how many feet does a car which was going 70 mph travel before it
comes to a stop? (Chpt. 8)
19.When is it necessary to stop before proceeding when you overtake a school bus loading or unloading children?
(Chpt. 4)
20.About how many feet will the average driver going 50 mph travel from the moment he sees danger until he hits
the brakes? (Chpt. 8)
21.Within how many feet of a crosswalk may you park, when parking near a corner? (Chpt. 7)
22.What is the state speed limit for automobiles in urban districts? (Chpt. 8)
23.Does a posted speed limit of 55 mph mean that you may drive 55 mph on that highway under all conditions?
(Chpt. 8)
24.You should never drive on the left half of the roadway when you are within how many feet from an intersection,
bridge, or railroad crossing? (Chpt. 6)
25.What should you do if you discover you are in the wrong lane to make a turn as you enter an intersection?
(Chpt. 6)
26.When two cars meet at the intersection of a two-lane road with a four- lane road, which one must yield the
right-of-way? (Chpt. 4)
27.If you are driving and hear a siren coming, what should you do? (Chpt. 4)
28.What is the first thing that should be done when a car starts to skid? (Chpt. 9)
81
Appendix C: Study and Review Questions for Class C Operators
Texas Driver Handbook
29.At what time of the day should your headlights be turned on? (Chpt. 9)
30.Under what conditions may your driver license be suspended? (Chpt. 1)
31.What is carbon monoxide, and how may it be harmful to drivers? (Chpt. 14)
32.Describe what you should do if you have a blowout while driving. (Chpt. 9)
33.What should you do when driving down a steep grade in a car with standard transmission? (Chpt. 9)
34.What should you do if you damage an unattended vehicle? (Chpt. 11)
35.When are crash reports required? (Chpt. 11)
36.If you are required to show proof of financial responsibility for the future, how many years must such proof be
kept up? (Chpt. 3)
37.What type of sign warns you to watch right and left for cross traffic? (Chpt. 5)
38.Describe the emblem which identifies vehicles which travel at speeds of 25 mph or less. (Chpt. 5)
39.In which gear should you drive when going down a steep hill? (Chpt. 9)
40.What qualifications must one have to teach a beginner to drive? (Chpt. 1)
41.If the person is under 18, when does his provisional license expire? (Chpt. 1)
42.When parked parallel, your curb side wheels must be no more than how many inches from the curb? (Chpt. 7)
43.When following another car, what is a good distance at which you should follow behind? (Chpt. 8)
44.To what agency and within what time period must a change of address be reported for driver licensing
purposes? (Chpt. 1)
45.What effects does the use of marijuana and amphetamine have on driving? (Chpt. 10)
46.What is the penalty for being convicted of driving while intoxicated? (Chpt. 10)
47.What does a green arrow showing with a red light mean? (Chpt. 5)
48.How should you react to a flashing red light? (Chpt. 5)
49.Which sign tells you to watch out for a train? (Chpt. 5)
50.Describe the sign which warns you to slow down for a winding road. (Chpt. 5)
51.What sign indicates that the road that you are on merges with another? (Chpt. 5)
52.What kind of sign warns you that the highest safe speed for the turn ahead is 25 mph? (Chpt. 5)
53.Describe the sign that tells you to watch for cross traffic ahead. (Chpt. 5)
54.What type of sign warns you that you should slow down for a sharp rise in the roadway? (Chpt. 5)
55.Describe the type of sign which would let you know that you were on a short state highway in a city or urban
area. (Chpt. 5)
56.What is the maximum number of inches that you may lawfully allow an object to extend beyond the left fender
of your car? (Chpt. 2)
57.Under what conditions must you always stop? (Chpt. 5)
58.What should you do when coming onto a street from a private alley or driveway? (Chpt. 4)
59.If a child runs into the road 45 to 50 feet ahead of your car, what is the highest speed from which you can stop
with good brakes without hitting him? (Chpt. 8)
60.How close to a fireplug may a vehicle lawfully park? (Chpt. 7)
61.What does a posted speed limit of 55 mph mean? (Chpt. 5)
62.What is the maximum speed limit for passenger cars on Texas Highway numbered by this state or United States
outside an urban district? (Chpt. 8)
82
Appendix C: Study and Review Questions for Class C Operators
Texas Driver Handbook
63. Under what circumstances should you never attempt to pass a car ahead of you? (Chpt. 6)
64. Under what conditions are overtaking and passing to the right not permitted? (Chpt. 6)
65. When a driver is waiting to make a left turn, what is the procedure he should take when the light turns green?
(Chpt. 5)
66. What precautions should a driver take at uncontrolled intersections? (Chpt. 4)
67. What regulations should a bicycle rider observe? (Chpt. 13)
68. Under what conditions should headlights be used? (Chpt. 9)
69. You should dim your lights when you are within how many feet of an approaching car? (Chpt. 9)
70. What type of lighting should cars use when parked on the highway at night? (Chpt. 9)
71. Which lights should you use when you are driving in a fog? (Chpt. 9)
72. When are you required to show proof of financial responsibility? (Chpt. 3)
73. When needed, how may one show proof of financial responsibility? (Chpt. 3)
74. What sign warns you that you must slow down? (Chpt. 5)
75. What circumstances may lead to possible loss of your license? (Chpt. 1)
76. In addition to mufflers, what new equipment is required on all cars manufactured in 1968 and after? (Chpt. 2)
77. Why are seat belts important? (Chpt. 14)
78. What is meant by “defensive driving?” (Chpt. 14)
79. What are the different classes of licenses and age requirements for each? (Chpt. 1)
80. When is a bicyclist not required to ride to the right of the roadway? (Chpt. 13)
81. When are bicyclists allowed to ride two abreast in a traffic lane? (Chpt. 13)
82. What are the three most common motorist caused car-bicycle crashes? (Chpt. 9)
83. What are the penalties for minors (persons under the age of 21) convicted of Driving Under the Influence of
Alcohol? (Chpt. 10)
84. What are the penalties for minors (persons under the age of 21) convicted of non-driving alcohol-related
offenses? (Chpt. 10)
83
DON’T BE
FAKE
IT IS A CRIMINAL
O F F E N S E TO M A K E ,
USE, OR POSSESS
A FA K E I D
LAW ENFORCEMENT IS
CRACKING DOWN ON FAKE IDS
AVOID THE CONSEQUENCES
HAVE YOUR
DRIVER LICENSE
REVOKED
GO
TO
JAIL
NOW G
N
HIRI H
ELP
WANT
ED
LOSE
YOUR
JOB
Are you interested in an exciting career as a State Trooper?
To find out if you qualify to be one of the very special people associated with
DPS, contact the nearest Texas Department of Public Safety office for details
or visit our website at www.dps.texas.gov.
Glenda Dawson Donate Life – Texas Registry
Texans can register to be organ, tissue and eye donors by visiting
www.DonateLifeTexas.org or when renewing their driver’s license or ID card.
Report Smoking Vehicles
To report a smoking vehicle, visit www.smokingvehicle.org or call toll free
800-453-SMOG (7664).
DL-7 (Rev. 9/14)
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