Updated September 2026.
Quick answer. If you do not have a Texas driver license, Texas ID card, passport, or another approved photo ID, you can get a free Election Identification Certificate, or EIC, from Texas DPS. It works as your photo ID at the polls. The catch is timing. Early voting runs October 19 to October 30 and Election Day is November 3, so you want this handled in early October, not the week you vote.
Who actually needs an EIC
Most Texans never will. Your Texas driver license already counts as voter ID, and for voters 18 to 69 it can be expired up to 4 years. Voters 70 and older can use a license expired for any length of time as long as it is otherwise valid. We break those rules down in our Texas voter ID guide.
The EIC is for the voter who has none of the seven accepted photo IDs. That is usually someone who stopped driving and let everything lapse more than 4 years ago, or someone whose license was lost, suspended, or revoked and who has no passport or military ID to fall back on.
What it costs and where you get it
It is free. DPS issues the EIC at driver license offices during regular business hours, and Texas DPS runs those offices by appointment. Treat it like any other DPS visit and book early. The current requirements are posted at dps.texas.gov.
What to expect at the visit
DPS will ask you to prove your identity and your US citizenship, and you need to be a registered voter or apply to register at the same visit. Plan on bringing original documents, the same as a license visit, and check the list on dps.texas.gov the night before. One missing paper means a second appointment.
The dates to put on your calendar
- October 5, 2026. Last day to register to vote in Texas.
- October 19 to October 30. Early voting in person.
- October 23. Last day for a mail ballot application to be received.
- November 3. Election Day.
If you run out of time
Texas has a fallback. If you cannot reasonably get an approved photo ID, you can bring a supporting document such as your voter registration certificate, a current utility bill, a bank statement, a paycheck, or a government check, then sign a Reasonable Impediment Declaration at the polls. It works, but it adds a step. A valid license or an EIC is the smoother path.
Getting the DPS appointment
This is where most people get stuck. DPS appointments are often booked weeks out, and October is busy. If you need an office visit before early voting starts, DMV Slots watches the DPS scheduler and texts you when an earlier opening shows up near you, so you can book it yourself right away.
Voting rules and dates come from the Texas Secretary of State at votetexas.gov. For anything specific to your county, check with your county voter registrar.