Can You Drive, Fly, or Buy Alcohol with an Expired Texas Driver’s License? Here’s What the Law Says

In Texas, life doesn’t stop just because your driver’s license has expired – but there are some important things to know before you get behind the wheel, board a flight, or buy a drink. The laws surrounding expired licenses can be confusing, so let’s break it down for you.

Can You Buy Alcohol with an Expired Texas Driver’s License?

Yes, you can buy alcohol in Texas with an expired driver’s license, but there are a few important things to note. Texas law does not require individuals over the age of 21 to show ID to purchase alcohol. However, many bars, restaurants, and stores may still ask for identification to verify your age, especially since workers can be held responsible for selling to minors.

  • Private Business Policies: While the state doesn’t mandate the form of ID, individual establishments have the right to determine whether they’ll accept an expired driver’s license. Some may refuse to accept it, especially if they have stricter internal policies about identification.
  • Alternative ID Forms: You can also use other forms of government-issued photo identification, like a military ID or a passport, but some Texas retailers may require a valid, unexpired Texas driver’s license or ID card.

So, while the law allows for alcohol purchases with an expired driver’s license, it’s ultimately up to the business whether they’ll accept it.

Can You Drive with an Expired Driver’s License in Texas?

In Texas, driving with an expired license is illegal and can result in penalties. Most Texas driver’s licenses are valid for six years, and you must renew your license before it expires.

  • Penalties for Driving with an Expired License: The fines for driving with an expired license can vary based on the number of offenses:
    • First offense: Up to $200 fine
    • Second offense (within a year): Fine between $25 and $200
    • Third offense (within a year of the second): Fine up to $500, plus possible jail time ranging from 72 hours to 6 months.

However, there’s a way to avoid larger fines. If you renew your license before your court date, you can present proof of renewal and pay a $20 fee to reduce your penalties.

Can You Board a Flight with an Expired Driver’s License in Texas?

Thanks to a pandemic-era grace policy, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is allowing travelers to use expired driver’s licenses for identification at Texas airports – but only until May 7, 2025.

  • TSA’s Grace Period: If your Texas driver’s license or state-issued ID expired on or after March 1, 2020, and you couldn’t renew it due to pandemic-related issues, you can still use it for travel. The TSA is accepting expired licenses up to one year past their expiration date, so you won’t have to worry about showing up at the airport without a valid ID.

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