After reading the thread about getting identification with your fem picture, I became determined to do so as well. Being on spring break and with my two teenagers making arrangements to spend the night at friends gave me the opportunity to visit the driver's license bureau and "git er done".
I got up early and prepared for my outing as I was going to make it an all day outing. I picked my outfit carefully, finally deciding on a brightly multi-colored top and conservative denim skirt. My first stop was the license bureau but when I arrived there were multiple buses and delivery trucks for people to get their CDL, it was very crowded and there were several "bubbas" standing outside smoking and waiting for their turn to be tested. The chicken that I am I decided to go to Walmart to do some food shopping which I finished around 9:30 am. I went back to the state office, composed myself and went in. There were about 12 people in line waiting to talk to the receptionist. When it was my turn, I explained what I wanted and lo and behold, I didn't have the right identification/paperwork with me; I needed a notorized copy of my birth certificate. Back home I headed in search of my birth certificate and to put away the groceries.
I had a 10:30 appointment for a pedicure, took care of my commitment and just after noon, back to the bureau I headed with my birth certificate and driver's license as my two forms of id. Upon entering the line to the receptionist was longer than before but I was determined to finish the business I had started that day. After I filled out the proper paperwork I had a seat and waited for my number to be called to get into the final line and get my Texas State ID. My number was called, I stood in another line of about 8 people, and worked myself to the front. There were 10 employees working (9 women and 1 man) and you guessed it, I got the man. I explained what I wanted, he got a personal phone call and I was left standing once again. Upon his return, I explained again and his reply was that what I wanted may be illegal and he didn't think that I could have an ID and a driver's license at the same time; he would have to check with his supervisor. Again I was left standing. When he came back, I had to swear that everything I had written on the paper was the truth, I paid $5 for the ID, moved to the picture spot and bingo, it was over. From the time that I entered to building to the time I walked out, the time was about 60 minutes.
Here is what I learned from the experience:
1. You will need at least two forms of identification, one a birth certificate.
2. Don't expect all the employees to know the law.
3. You can expect everyone to be courteous and non-judgemental.
4. Even though you may be seen by 50 to 75 people in an area 30 x 30, no one pointed, laughed or made any snide or rude comments.
5. If I can be brave enough to get a state ID, I can go and do almost anything!
Annie