MALC Chairman Ramón Romero, Jr. Introduces House Bill 5068 to Establish Conditional Driver’s Permits in Texas

AUSTIN, TX — Today, State Representative Ramón Romero, Jr., Chairman of the Mexican American Legislative Caucus (MALC), filed House Bill 5068 to create a conditional driver’s permit—a commonsense proposal aimed at improving public safety, supporting law enforcement, and boosting the Texas economy.

Currently, many Texans—including undocumented immigrants, survivors of domestic violence, and individuals experiencing homelessness—have no legal means of obtaining a driver’s license. This lack of access increases risks for all Texans on the road.

By allowing foreign-born Texans to earn a permit through the same process as all other drivers—including driver’s education, testing, and proof of residency—HB 5068 would ensure all drivers are properly trained, registered, and insured. Additionally, applicants for these conditional permits would be required to undergo a background check, further enhancing public safety and reducing the number of uninsured drivers, which helps lower auto insurance premiums for all Texans.

Expanding access to driver’s permits would also allow law enforcement to focus on real public safety threats rather than booking unlicensed drivers for minor traffic infractions. Studies show that states allowing undocumented residents to obtain licenses experience fewer traffic fatalities and uninsured accidents.

“Our communities are safer when everyone behind the wheel is tested, licensed, and insured,” said MALC Chairman, State Representative Ramón Romero, Jr. “This bill is about public safety, not politics. It gives law enforcement the tools to focus on real threats, keeps families safe, and strengthens our economy by helping more Texans get to work, school, and home again. It’s the kind of smart, compassionate policy Texas needs right now.”