Yes, a tourist can drive in Texas using a valid driver's license from their home country. The license must be written in English or accompanied by an official English translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP). There is no statewide law mandating an IDP for short-term visitors, but it is highly recommended as it serves as a recognized translation and can simplify interactions with rental agencies and law enforcement.
The key requirements are that you are at least 18 years old, hold a valid license, and obey all Texas traffic laws. Your home country license must be current and not suspended. It is crucial to understand that your driving privileges are tied to your legal visitor status.
Car rental companies almost universally require renters to be at least 21 years old (with surcharges for drivers under 25) and will ask to see your passport, home country license, and often an IDP. They will also require you to purchase their insurance or provide proof of your own coverage that meets Texas's minimum liability requirements.
Texas law requires all drivers to be financially responsible for any accident they cause. The minimum liability coverage is often called 30/60/25 coverage:
| Coverage Type | Minimum Amount | What It Covers |
|---|
| Bodily Injury (per person) | $30,000 | One person's injuries in an accident you cause. |
| Bodily Injury (per accident) | $60,000 | Total for all injuries in an accident you cause. |
| Property Damage | $25,000 | Damage you cause to another vehicle or property. |
Before you drive, ensure you have the necessary documents on you at all times: your passport, valid driver's license, and IDP if you have one. Familiarize yourself with local rules, like turning right on a red light after a full stop (unless signed otherwise) and the prevalence of toll roads, for which rental cars are often automatically billed.
