Hotels in Texas That Allow 18-Year-Olds to Check-In

By: Alexander Backus
Updated: May 16, 2024

Even though you’re technically an adult, many hotels won’t let you check in until you’re 21.

Keep reading this guide for a list of Texas hotels that allow 18-year-olds to check in and other important information you should know.

Hotels in Texas with 18+ Check-In

1. Houston

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Click here for Houston Hotels with 18+ Check-In guide

2. San Antonio

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Click here for San Antonio Hotels with 18+ Check-In guide

3. Dallas

4 Star Hotels:

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Click here for Dallas Hotels with 18+ Check-In guide

4. Austin

3 Star Hotels:

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Click here for Austin Hotels with 18+ Check-In guide

5. Fort Worth

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Click here for Fort Worth Hotels with 18+ Check-In guide

6. El Paso

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Click here for El Paso Hotels with 18+ Check-In guide

7. Arlington

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Click here for Arlington Hotels with 18+ Check-In guide

How Old Do You Have To Be To Rent a Hotel Room in Texas?

You must be 18 years old to rent a hotel room in Texas. However, it's pretty standard for hotels to set their own minimum check-in age policies, and many will not rent a room to anyone under 21.

Don't worry! You can get a hotel room if you book from the above list of 18+ hotels in Texas.

FAQs

Will I need an I.D. to check in as an 18-year-old?

Yes! You’ll need to show an ID to check into a hotel, no matter how old you are. 

Will I need a credit card to check in as an 18-year-old?

Again, yes! Hotels usually want a credit or debit card on file to cover any charges to your room. 

Can you get a hotel at 18 in Texas? Is it legal?

Yes, you can book and get a hotel at 18, and it is entirely legal for an 18-year-old to check into a hotel in Texas. However, it’s important to note that hotels are also within their rights to set and enforce their own age restrictions. 

To avoid any surprises, always check with a hotel before booking if you’re unsure of their age policies. 

Why do most hotels have an age requirement of 21?

Unfortunately, many hotels don’t trust 18-year-olds to be as responsible as older guests. Sometimes, the age requirement is to limit noise disturbances, rowdy behavior, or underage drinking. 

Alternatives to Hotels for 18-Year-Olds

Whatever your reason for staying in Texas—going to a family BBQ, exploring hiking trails at the Big Bend, or just enjoying the live shows in Austin—you’ll need a place to stay.

If you can’t find a suitable hotel, there are a couple of other options. 

Airbnb

Airbnb is a wonderful alternative to a hotel. Rather than staying at the standard hotel and having a cookie-cutter tourist experience, you get to stay in a quieter, residential area and experience the real city. 

Airbnbs are more private than hotels. If the property has a pool or hot tub, you don’t have to share it with a bunch of strangers. 

Hosts can set their own age requirements, and most allow 18-year-olds to rent. 

Hostels

Youth hostels are an excellent choice for a place to stay, especially if you’re a little short on cash. 

Hostels tend to be much cheaper than hotels. They usually have kitchens, so you can save money by purchasing groceries and preparing food. Many also offer group activities or meals if you feel lonely or want to make new friends. 

If you’re considering booking a hostel, know that while some offer private rooms, most rooms are dorm-style, which means you’ll be sleeping in a bunk bed, using shared bathrooms, and having to store your items in a locker.