The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) is encountering significant opposition over proposed changes that would enforce stricter photo identification requirements for vehicle registration. Critics argue that these regulations could prevent many undocumented residents from legally owning vehicles, potentially increasing the number of unregistered and uninsured drivers in the state.
During a public hearing held on November 8, 2023, approximately 35 individuals representing small businesses, advocacy groups, and county tax offices expressed their concerns regarding the proposed rules. Many of the opponents emphasized that the changes would not only create barriers for many residents but also adversely affect local businesses and road safety.
Tyler Simmons, a member of the Texas Independent Automobile Dealers Association, articulated the contradiction inherent in the rule change. He stated, “By preventing lawful registration, it increases the number of unregistered, uninsured drivers in Texas while hurting regulated, tax-paying small businesses.”
The TxDMV’s proposal aims to limit acceptable forms of photo identification for vehicle registration to a valid, unexpired driver’s license or state identification card that meets REAL ID requirements, a valid Texas handgun license, an unexpired U.S. passport, a permanent resident card, an unexpired immigrant visa, or a valid foreign passport marked for lawful admission to the U.S. Previously, IDs that had recently expired could still be accepted.
The department argues these changes are necessary to “prevent fraud” and to ensure that only those legally eligible to reside in Texas can register vehicles. However, many of those affected may possess federal work authorization or have lived in the U.S. for an extended period, including asylum applicants and lapsed DACA recipients.
Concerns were raised during the hearing regarding whether there is sufficient data to support the TxDMV’s claim that stricter ID requirements would effectively prevent fraud. Officials from Bexar County and Travis County highlighted the potential economic impact of the proposed changes. Celia Israel, the Travis County Tax Assessor-Collector, stated, “I wholeheartedly disagree with this rule and will not enforce it until it is properly authorized.”
Local business owners, particularly those serving predominantly Hispanic communities, reported a decline in customers since the announcement of the proposed changes. Many clients are now opting to register their vehicles under someone else’s name or in different states. One Houston-based business owner, Andre Martinez of the Texas United Auto & Community Alliance, remarked, “At this rate, I don’t see my business being able to survive much longer.”
The proposed rule changes by the TxDMV have ignited a crucial conversation about access to vehicle registration and the economic implications for communities across Texas. As the DMV considers the feedback received during the public hearing, the future of vehicle registration in the state hangs in the balance.
