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Bill

HB 1712

Relating to the issuance of a certified birth record, driver's license, or personal identification certificate to a homeless individual.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Nicole Collier

Removes residential address requirements for homeless individuals to obtain birth certificates, driver's licenses, and ID cards in Texas.

Referred to Intergovernmental Affairs
#birth&deathcertificates(s6418) #homeless(s0243) #health--general(i0385) #health--indigenthealthcare(i0386) #housing--homelesspersons(i0404) #identificationcards(s0074) #lawenforcement(i0510) #publicsafety #departmentof(v0251) #statehealthservices #departmentof(v0463) #vehicles&traffic--driver'slicenses(i0840)
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Bill Summary · HB 1712

Legislative bill overview

HB 1712 would allow homeless individuals to obtain certified birth records, driver's licenses, and personal identification certificates without requiring a permanent residential address. The bill aims to remove administrative barriers that currently prevent people experiencing homelessness from accessing essential identity documents needed for employment, housing applications, and social services.

Why is this important

Identity documents are fundamental to accessing employment, banking, healthcare, and housing—yet homeless individuals often cannot obtain them due to address requirements. This creates a catch-22: people need IDs to secure jobs and housing, but cannot get IDs without a stable address. Removing this barrier could facilitate pathways out of homelessness and reduce administrative burden on service providers.

Potential points of contention

  • Address verification concerns: Agencies may worry about fraud prevention and document authentication without traditional address verification methods
  • Implementation costs: State agencies would need new procedures, staff training, and systems modifications to process documents without addresses
  • Mail delivery logistics: Unclear how homeless individuals would receive physical documents without a mailing address, potentially requiring alternative delivery methods
  • Scope definition: Bill language may need clarification on what qualifies as proof of homelessness and whether shelters or service providers can serve as contact points

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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