Additional ID Options for Voters

The City of Garland reminds Texans that voters who cannot obtain one of the seven forms of approved photo identification now have additional options when voting in person.

Approved Options

The seven forms of approved photo identification are:

  • Texas driver license issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)
  • Texas Election Identification Certificate issued by DPS
  • Texas license to carry a handgun issued by DPS
  • Texas personal identification card issued by DPS
  • United States citizenship certificate containing the person’s photograph
  • United States military identification card containing the person’s photograph
  • United States passport

With the exception of the U.S. citizenship certificate, the approved photo ID must be current or have expired no more than four years before being presented for voter qualification at the polling place.

Using Supporting Documentation

As provided by a court order, if a voter has a reasonable impediment to obtaining one of the seven forms of approved photo ID, the voter may vote by signing a declaration at the polls explaining why the voter is unable to obtain one of the seven forms of approved photo ID, and providing one form of supporting documentation.

Supporting documentation can be:

  • Certified birth certificate (must be an original)
  • Copy or original of current utility bill, bank statement, government check or paycheck
  • Government document that shows the voter’s name and an address (a government document that includes a photo must be original, not a copy)
  • Valid voter registration certificate

If a voter meets these requirements and is otherwise eligible to vote, the voter will be able to cast a regular ballot in the election.

Voters with a Disability

Voters with a disability may continue to apply with the county registrar for a permanent exemption to showing approved photo identification the polls. Also, voters who have consistent religious objections to being photographed or who cannot present one of the seven forms of approved photo identification because of certain natural disasters as declared by the President of the United States or the Texas Governor, may continue to apply for a temporary exemption to showing approved photo identification at the polls.

Voters can learn more by visiting VoteTexas.gov or calling 1-800-252-8689.