Beginning March 5, 2026, a new statewide rule from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles will affect some vehicle registration transactions at county tax offices across Texas.

What’s changing?

Customers completing an initial vehicle registration at the tax office must now present a valid form of identification at the time of the transaction.

What residents should know:

• The ID requirement starts March 5, 2026 for initial vehicle registrations only

• Registration renewals are NOT affected until January 1, 2027

Examples of acceptable ID include:

• Valid driver’s license or state ID (REAL ID or standard)

• U.S. passport

• Foreign passport with supporting immigration documentation

• U.S. military ID

• Texas License to Carry issued by DPS

• Other federal or government-issued identification

*Some forms of photo ID may be accepted if expired within the past 12 months.

The Hays County Tax Office is sharing this information now so residents can plan and avoid delays when visiting the office.

If you are completing an initial vehicle registration on or after March 5, please remember to bring a valid photo ID.

For questions, please contact the Hays County Tax Office.