Download the Affidavit
Get the official DL-5 form from the Texas DPS
Who Needs a Residency Affidavit?
Texas requires two forms of residency proof. Since teens rarely have documents in their own name, the residency affidavit allows a parent to vouch for the teen's address.
You Need This If:
- Your teen doesn't have utility bills in their name (most teens)
- Your teen doesn't have a lease or mortgage in their name
- You need to prove your teen lives at the same address as you
You May NOT Need This If:
- • Your teen has their own utility bill or bank statement with their address
- • Your teen has a Texas vehicle registration in their name
- • Your teen has other official documents showing their Texas address
How the Affidavit Works
Parent Completes the Form
A parent or legal guardian fills out the DL-5 affidavit, stating that the teen lives at their Texas address.
Parent Signs the Affidavit
The parent signs the form, certifying the information is true under penalty of perjury.
Bring Supporting Documents
The parent must bring their own proof of residency (utility bills, deed, etc.) to support the affidavit.
Present at DPS
Bring the completed affidavit and supporting documents to your DPS appointment.
Supporting Documents You'll Need
The Affidavit Alone Isn't Enough
You must bring the parent's proof of residency to support the affidavit. The DPS needs to verify the parent actually lives at the stated address.
The parent signing the affidavit should bring two of the following documents showing their name and the Texas address:
Property Documents
- Property deed with your name and Texas address
- Mortgage statement showing Texas property
- Property tax receipt for current year
Utility Bills
- Electric bill (current, in your name)
- Water bill
- Gas bill
- Internet/cable bill
Financial Documents
- Bank statement with Texas address
- Credit card statement
- Texas vehicle registration
Government Documents
- Texas voter registration card
- Texas vehicle title
- Selective Service registration (if applicable)
Do I Need to Get It Notarized?
Usually not. DPS employees can witness your signature at the office. However, arriving with a notarized affidavit can speed things up and avoid any issues.
Pro Tip: Many banks, UPS stores, and shipping centers offer notary services for a small fee ($5-15). If you want to be extra prepared, get it notarized before your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone sign the affidavit, or does it have to be a parent?
The affidavit should be signed by someone who lives at the same address as the teen and can prove their own residency—typically a parent, step-parent, or legal guardian.
What if my teen lives with grandparents?
The grandparent can sign the affidavit as long as they can prove their own Texas residency and that the teen lives with them.
We just moved to Texas. What if our documents still show our old state?
You'll need at least two current documents showing your new Texas address. Utility bills and bank statements usually update quickly. You may need to wait a billing cycle after your move.
Can I use the same affidavit for the permit and road test?
Yes, as long as the information is still accurate (same address, etc.). But make sure you have current supporting documents for each visit.
What if we rent and don't have a deed?
That's fine! Use utility bills, bank statements, or other documents instead. A lease agreement can also work as one of your documents.
Bring More Than You Need
When in doubt, bring extra documents. It's better to have too much proof than not enough. The DPS clerk will select which documents to use, but having options prevents you from being turned away.