The general legal age of adulthood in Texas is 18 years. At this age, individuals are recognized as adults with the capacity to make binding commitments, sue or be sued, and exercise all legal rights and responsibilities of an adult. However, there are some exceptions and specific age restrictions for certain activities:
- You can face adult criminal charges in Texas from age 17.
- The legal age to drive is 15 (learner's permit), with provisional license at 16.
- The legal age to purchase and consume alcohol is 21.
- The age of consent for sexual activity in Texas is 17, with some close-in-age exceptions known as "Romeo and Juliet" laws.
- Emancipation of minors can occur at age 16 or 17 under specific conditions, giving them certain adult legal rights earlier than 18.
In summary, while 18 is the age of majority for most legal purposes, there are important variations depending on the specific law or activity involved in Texas. The state has tailored age restrictions to balance protection and autonomy across different domains. This information is based on Texas law as of 2025.