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Older drivers

Older drivers in Texas: what changes at 79 and 85

Texas drivers 79 and older must renew in person with a vision test, and licenses for drivers 85 and up last only two years. How families can raise a concern, even anonymously.

DMVZone editorial · November 12, 2026 · 6 min read
Quick answer

At 79, Texas drivers must renew in person at a driver license office and pass a vision test; they cannot renew online or by mail. At 85, licenses are good for only two years. Anyone worried about a driver can send DPS a written concern by mail, fax or email, and it can be anonymous.

In-person renewal from
Age 79
2-year license from
Age 85
Vision test
Every renewal at 79+
Anonymous concerns
Accepted
A tree-lined residential street with parked cars along the curb and a Speed Limit 25 sign on a post.

Texas is one of the few states with firm age steps in its renewal rules. There is still no age-based road test. DPS asks for a driving test only if an examiner, a doctor, police or a family member raises a concern.

Renewal by age

AgeHow you renewLicense length
Under 79Online, by phone or mail if eligible, or in personStandard term
79 to 84In person, with a vision testStandard term
85 and olderIn person, with a vision test2 years
Good to know

Book a driver license office appointment early. Offices in big metros fill up weeks ahead, and an expired license means you cannot legally drive while you wait.

Raising a concern about a driver

Put it in writing

  • DPS will not act on a phone call
  • Include name, date of birth, address and license number if you know it
  • Explain the facts: what you saw and when

Send it to

  • Texas DPS, Enforcement and Compliance Service, P.O. Box 4087, Austin, TX 78773-0320
  • Fax 512-424-5311
  • Email MAB@dps.texas.gov

Good to know

  • Anonymous written concerns are accepted
  • Submissions may be released under the Public Information Act

What happens next

  1. ReviewDPS may ask for a doctor's statement or driving, written and vision tests, or send the case to the Medical Advisory Board of doctors.
  2. NoticeIf DPS decides to revoke, it mails a notice with the reason.
  3. 20 days to ask for a hearingWithout a request, the license is revoked 45 days after the notice date.
  4. HearingHeld in municipal or justice court in your county. Scheduling can take up to 120 days.
Check yourself3 questions

  1. At what age must Texas drivers renew in person?

    Answer: C. Drivers 79 and older must renew in person and take a vision test.

  2. How long is a Texas license for a driver 85 or older?

    Answer: B. Licenses for drivers 85 and older are valid for two years.

  3. Can a family member report a Texas driver anonymously?

    Answer: A. DPS accepts anonymous written concerns. Verbal reports are not enough.

Questions families ask

Does Texas make older drivers take a road test?

Not based on age alone. DPS may require one if there is a concern about driving ability.

How long do I have to request a hearing after a revocation notice?

Twenty days from the notice date.

Can a revoked driver get an occupational license?

Not when the license was denied or revoked for medical reasons.

Official sources

Checked against these pages on November 12, 2026. Laws change, so open the source before you rely on a number.

Rules and fees change. Always confirm the details with the official Texas DMV or motor vehicle agency before you act. DMVZone practice questions are written to teach the rules and are not copies of the real test.

Keep your curiosity moving.

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