Election Identification Certificate (EIC)

If you don't have a Texas Driver's license or other approved form of photo ID to vote, you can apply for an Election Identification Certificate (EIC)

Did you know you can obtain an Election Identification Certificate (EIC) at your local Driver License office?

If you currently hold a Texas Driver License (DL) or Identification (ID) card, these are valid forms of ID for purposes of voting, and you do not need an EIC.

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But if you have never had a Texas ID, and need an EIC, please schedule an appointment at your local Department of Public Safety Office.

Same day or walk in appointments are available for EIC transactions. 

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How to Apply

To apply for an EIC, visit a driver license office and complete an Application for Texas Election Certificate (DL-14C) (PDF) | Application for Texas Election Certificate (Spanish) (DL-14CS) (PDF).

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To qualify for an EIC, you must:

• Bring documentation to the office to verify your U.S. Citizenship

• Bring documentation to the office to verify your Identity

• Be eligible to vote in Texas (Bring your valid voter registration card to the office, or submit a voter registration application through the Texas Department of Public Safety at the office)

• Be a Texas resident

• Be 17 years and 10 months or older

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The information on the documents, such as name and date of birth, must all match. If the name is different on each document, then the individual must provide documents that verify a legal name change. If other information on the document is different, speak with a License and Permit Specialist for assistance.

• If you are using a name other than what is on your birth certificate, (example: married name), you will be required to show legal documentation of name change.

Documents must be original or certified copy. No photocopies can be accepted. Acceptable documents:

1. Marriage license

2. Divorce decree

3. Original or certified copy of a revised birth certificate

4. Court ordered name change

5. Department of State Health Services marriage verification letter

Fingerprints are not taken and warrant checks are not conducted on persons applying for an EIC.

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Expiration and Use

An EIC is valid for six years. There is no expiration date for certificates issued to citizens 70 years of age or older. 

Election Identification Certificates may only be used for voting purposes.  

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NOTES:  

'Born and raised' Texans forced to prove identities under new voter ID law, The Guardian, 27 October 2014.