Rep. Harrison Demands Texas DMV Block Vehicle Registrations by Non-Citizens

Texas State Representative Brian Harrison

Texas State Representative Brian Harrison is calling on the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to immediately stop allowing individuals without legal immigration status to register vehicles in the state — a move he says is necessary to protect public safety and enforce existing law.

In a formal letter dated November 3, 2025, addressed to Texas DMV Board Chair Charles Bacarisse, Harrison said his office received reports indicating that non-citizens lacking legal immigration status were able to register vehicles in Texas. Harrison asked the DMV for clarification on what identification is currently required and whether immigration status is verified during the registration process.

Citing Texas Transportation Code Section 502.040(b), Harrison noted that the Legislature has already given the DMV authority to determine what personal identification documents are required for vehicle registration. He argued that the agency should use that authority to prevent registrations by individuals who are not lawfully in the country.

“My office has received reports of illegal aliens registering their vehicles in Texas. Today, I’m demanding the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles take immediate action to stop this,” Harrison wrote.

Harrison went on to state that, if immigration status verification is not already occurring, this letter should be viewed as a formal request for the DMV to begin doing so. He also signaled that he is prepared to pursue further action.

“If DMV fails to take prompt and efficacious action to solve this problem, I will file legislation to require DMV verify lawful status before issuing registrations,” he wrote, adding that Texas should not adopt policies that “enable or incentivize” illegal immigration.

At present, the Texas DMV’s published vehicle registration requirements focus on proof of insurance, proof of inspection, and payment of fees. Immigration status is not listed as part of the documentation requirements.

The DMV has not yet issued a public response to Harrison’s request.