BEAUMONT, Texas — As early-voting continues and Election Day nears for the 2024 Presidential election many are worried that only eligible voters are able to vote and making sure they can vote themselves as well.
Questions about voter eligibility have been circulating online as Election Day is less than a week away.
At least one 12News viewer has asked about using a "limited term license" as an ID when voting.
THE QUESTION
Can I vote using a "limited term license" in the November election?
THE SOURCES
THE ANSWER
The answer isn't a straight yes or a no. It needs context.
WHAT WE FOUND
A "limited term" drivers license is issued to an individual who has temporary lawful status in the United States but who was not a U.S. Citizen at the time, according to the Texas Secretary of State website.
For example if someone with a "limited term license" is only here in the United States for work or school they are not eligible to vote.
However, a person can have a "limited term license" and be a naturalized citizen.
These individuals are eligible to vote with extra steps.
Those steps involve bringing a special form of identification like a naturalization card or naturalization certificate.
WHY?
Under Texas law, non-citizen voting is prohibited.
The Texas Secretary of State says a "limited term license" denotes a time in the past or present that the individual was at one time. Not eligible to vote.
This is why a naturalization card or certificate is required to prove U.S. citizenship.
If you plan to use your "limited term drivers license" as a form of id for the polls be sure to take a naturalization card or naturalization certificate to cast your vote.