A driver’s license and car seem to go hand in hand. The thought of looking for a car without a license may seem like a foreign concept. However, there are people that have a good reason to purchase a car even when they don’t have that small rectangular identification that says they are legal to drive. So the next question becomes—is it even possible to buy a vehicle without a driver’s license?
The Exceptions
Most of the time you’ll need to have a driver’s license to buy a car, but there are circumstances that are exceptions. If a spouse without a license needs to co-sign or outright purchase in order for a loan to happen, or a teen is buying for the big day that hasn’t arrived yet—those are typically valid reasons that you may not need a license. The teen will still need a co-signer, but in the scenario of a spouse, they most likely wouldn’t.
If you’re license has been suspended, but will be valid again in the near future, a lender will assess the situation on a case-by-case basis. A car can also be purchased as a gift using cash. In that case there is no lender involved to approve or deny the sale. You will still need to deal with the requirements of the insurance agency, which typically states that an owner or co-owner of a car has to possess a valid driver’s license.
What You Need to Purchase a Vehicle without a License
If you’re buying a car there are still items you’ll need to bring with you to the dealership even if you don’t have a license. Some are must-have, while others are suggestions. They include:
- A valid photo ID
- Proof of income
- Proof of address
- Any current vehicle loan information
- Someone with a valid driver’s license who can test drive
Why do People Need a License to Drive?
The history of the driver’s license is long, often complex and very tedious. Some basic reasons it was created was to allow people to drive on public roads despite the complaints of others. Later, it was required to regulate driving habits—the death toll by car was exploding.
In today’s world a driver’s license serves many purposes. It is an official form of I.D., it answers questions about a person, and allows us to take to the roads and proves that we know the rules, regulations and skills of driving. It also makes driving a privilege, and if you don’t look at it that way, the consequences can prevent you from being able to drive.
Getting a Driver’s License in Texas
In Texas you have to completed the required classroom hours of driver education - this can be parent-taught driver education (PTDE). From there you’ll be allowed to practice as long as you’re accompanied by someone 21 and older. At 16 you can take the written and driver tests to receive your restricted license. A restricted license means you cannot drive with more than one passenger until the restriction expires, or between the hours of 1-5 a.m.
Texas also has hardship licenses for those 14 to 18 years of age. A form must be filled out and approved to receive a hardship license.
The most important thing to remember if you purchase a car without a driver’s license is that you won’t be able to drive it until you have one. You run many risks if you do. Once you have your valid DL, you can hit the road in your new ride.
