Texas Driver License Help for Non-English-Speaking Families

Non-English speaking parents can complete the Texas learner's permit process successfully. DPS provides translation services, forms in Spanish, and interpreter support at every office statewide.

Parental Consent When Parents Don't Speak English

Parents who do not speak English can still provide the required parental authorization. The application form depends on age: applicants under 17 years 10 months use DL-14B; applicants 17 years 10 months or older use DL-14A. A parent or legal guardian must still cosign for a minor unless an exception applies.

Parents must understand what they're signing before putting pen to paper.

• A bilingual notary public or adult translator (18+) can explain the form content and legal implications to parents in their native language.
• The applicant or other minors cannot serve as the legal interpreter during this consent process.
• You can have the signed DL-14B form notarized outside the DPS office before your appointment.

DPS staff verify parental understanding through the Language Line if concerns arise during submission. See Texas application form details for complete filing requirements.

Does a parent need to speak English to sign a Texas teen's driver-license application?

No. The parent or guardian must understand what they are signing, but English fluency is not a separate consent requirement. Language assistance or a translator can be used for ordinary application communication.

Translation and Interpreter Services at Texas DPS

Texas DPS offers language assistance for ordinary application communication. A translator can help a parent understand forms and communicate at the counter.

For testing-specific language rules, use the dedicated Test Language Options and Road Test Language guides.

Can I bring my own translator to a Texas DPS driver-license appointment?

Yes for ordinary application communication. Testing has separate language and assistance rules, so use the dedicated test-language guides for the exam itself.

Forms and Study Materials Available in Spanish

• Application Forms: The DL-14BS (Spanish minor application) and DL-5S (Spanish residency affidavit) are officially available.
• Document Checklist: Review the What to Bring - Learner License checklist (DL-67) for complete requirements.
• Texas Driver Handbook: The official Spanish handbook (DL-7S) is available from DPS.

Are Texas DL-14A and DL-14B available in Spanish?

Yes. DPS publishes DL-14AS for applicants age 17 years 10 months or older and DL-14BS for applicants under 17 years 10 months.

Completing the Texas Driver License Process With Language Assistance

1. Use the driver-license application that matches the applicant's age and complete the parent/guardian authorization required for a minor.
2. Arrange language help for the counter if needed. Standard identity, residency, lawful-presence and SSN documents are covered in the Eligibility & Documents page.
3. For knowledge-test or road-test language rules, use the dedicated Test Language Options and Road Test Language guides.

Language assistance does not change the normal application fee or document requirements.

Language Help at Your DPS Visit

• Use available counter translation help for forms and ordinary DPS communication.
• Bring the Spanish application materials that apply to the applicant when they are helpful.
• Use the dedicated Test Language Options and Road Test Language guides for exam-specific rules.