Legislative Blog
J.B. Williams, J.D.
HB 291 bill that modify the Transportation Code
A Blog about 88th Legislature Laws
A Bit of Background
The following backgrounds help summarize the author's views on both the general topic: Texas and more specifically 88th Legislature Laws as it relates to that topic.
Brief Summary of Texas
Texas is truly a Republic. There are a multitude of items that to modify the state constitution must be modified. So there are times when Constitutional amendments are on the voting ballots. While I sometimes abhor the wording, the concept that all of those legally able to vote in Texas must vote on the change is a good one. And bills in Texas are generally short, making it easier for everyone to understand.
Summary of 88th Legislature Laws
The blogs here will discuss the laws passed by Congress and signed into law, as well as those, passed by Congress and approved by the voters to become law. There are a multitude of laws and each time I post blogs I will notate here the current effective date if it is different from prior blogs. I have worked my way through to the Transportation Code. The Utilities and Water Code will follow.
Blog Summary
HB 291 - Occupation Driver's License
HB 291 bill that modify the Transportation Code
Published: 2026-07-14
HB 291 - 26 pages
This relates to modifications for Occupational Driver's License. One reason for granting an occupational license is for pursuit of an occupation or trade. Going to/from occupation/trade, to/from education; and essential household duties were already covered.
You can apply for an occupational driver's license if the license is suspended, revoked or cancelled for a physical or mental disability/impairment, or that the person has been determined to be incapable of safely operating a motor vehicle; or they do not have a driver's license and are ineligible for one due to a suspension; or they are ineligible because it was issued by another state or country and suspended, revoked or cancelled due to physical or mental disability or impairment.
Occupational driver's license is not authorization for commercial motor vehicle operation.
There is a filing fee for the occupational driver's license. Though it may be waived with the filing of an affidavit of inability to pay and the court determining that the affidavit is true and qualifies for a waiver of fees.
An occupational driver's license may be denied if there is no proof of financial responsibility (insurance); if there has been more than 1 conviction in the 10 years proceeding the offense; or if the revocation is a revocation of an occupation driver's license or the offense violates the restrictions placed on holding an occupational driver's license.
An ignition interlock device requirement must be required for an occupational driver's license if the underlying revocation requires it or if the underlying revocation involved DWI. It can also be required with a finding of good cause. Testing for alcohol or controlled substances can be required. When applicable, it must require attendance for alcohol dependence counseling and submit to supervision. Failure to maintain the interlock device is cause for revocation.
An occupation license may require maintaining a travel log showing date, time, and location of travel.
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