Texas

Regulations and Laws on Military Draft Registration (Selective Service) by State

Driver’s License Linked to Registration? Yes, must be registered to receive license, permit, or identification card.

Registration Linked to Access to Higher Education? Yes, must be registered to receive state financial aid.

Registration Required for State Employment? Yes, must be registered for state employment.

Legislation passed in 2002 created the opportunity for eligible males to register with the SSS upon application for a license. However, SB 132, which was passed in 2011, amended Texas Transportation Code 521.147 to make compliance with SSS requirements mandatory in order to receive a license or identification card.

All eligible males between the ages of 18 and 26, by applying for a license are now consenting to have registration information forwarded to the SSS.  By law, the application must include these words:  “By submitting this application, I am consenting to registration with the United States Selective Service System if my registration is required by federal law.” This notice must be “conspicuous.”

The application must also include instructions on how to request “information regarding alternative service options for applicants who object to conventional military service for religious or other conscientious reasons.” The department is encouraged to post signs in English and Spanish that also carry information for conscientious objectors.

Section 51.9095 of the Texas Education Code stipulates that, before receiving any state funded loan, grant, or financial aid, all males under 26 must file “a statement of the individual’s selective service status.” If the male is exempt, he is required to file a new selective service status statement every time he applies for or updates his financial aid.

Those who are registered only need to submit the statement the first time. Texas Government Code, Section 651.005, mandates that no state agency may hire an employee until they have provided proof of compliance with the SSS.