Turning 18 in Texas: You're Legal, But Are You Adulting?
So, you're 18. Congrats on officially becoming a person who can legally buy lottery tickets and terrible decisions. Welcome to the wonderful world of adulthood, Texas-style! Let's dive into the exciting (and sometimes terrifying) things you can now do.
The Thrill of Responsibility
Suddenly, you're the captain of your own ship. No more asking Mom for money for that concert ticket or pretending you know how to do laundry. You can now legally:
- Vote: Your voice matters, kiddo. Go out there and make a difference (or at least try to figure out who to vote for).
- Join the Military: If you're feeling patriotic and want to trade your video games for camouflage, this is your time to shine.
- Get a Tattoo or Piercing: Express yourself with some permanent ink. Just make sure it's something you won't regret when you're 40 and looking like a walking billboard.
- Rent a Car: Freedom awaits! Just remember, insurance is your new best friend.
- Buy Lottery Tickets: Your chance to become a millionaire overnight. Or, more realistically, a slightly poorer version of yourself.
The Weight of Adulting
But with great power comes great responsibility, as the wise Spiderman once said. Here are some less glamorous things you can now do:
- Pay Taxes: It's not as exciting as it sounds, but it's a necessary evil.
- Get a Job: Time to start earning your own keep. No more asking your parents for money for that new pair of sneakers.
- Open a Bank Account: Say goodbye to your piggy bank and hello to interest rates.
- Sign Legal Documents: Contracts, leases, and all sorts of paperwork are now your reality.
- Serve on a Jury: Your civic duty awaits. Just hope you don't get stuck on a high-profile case.
And Finally, the Fun Stuff
Let's not forget that being 18 is still pretty awesome. Here are a few fun things you can do in Texas:
- Explore National Parks: Texas has some amazing natural beauty. Pack a backpack and hit the trails.
- Visit Music Festivals: From Austin City Limits to South by Southwest, there's always a music fest to enjoy.
- Road Trip: Grab your friends and hit the open road. Texas is huge, so there's plenty to explore.
- Volunteer: Give back to your community and make a difference. It's also a great way to meet new people.
Remember: Being 18 is a big deal, but it's also a learning process. Don't be afraid to make mistakes and learn from them. And most importantly, have fun!
How to...
- How to register to vote? Check with your local county clerk's office for specific requirements and deadlines.
- How to get a driver's license? Visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to schedule a written and driving test.
- How to open a bank account? Choose a bank, gather necessary documents (like ID and Social Security number), and visit a branch or open an account online.
- How to find a job? Utilize online job boards, network with people, and tailor your resume to specific job openings.
- How to rent an apartment? Check rental listings, have good credit, and be prepared to pay a security deposit and first month's rent.
