Texas DPS Definition of "Operating a Motor Vehicle"

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), "operating a motor vehicle" means:

• Controlling, steering, and directing a vehicle's movement on public highways or private roadways open to the public for travel
• Includes driving, steering, or otherwise exerting control over the vehicle
• Does not require the vehicle to be in motion—simply sitting in the driver's seat with the engine running can constitute operation

This broad definition is important for DWI/DUI enforcement and traffic law applications.