How to get a driver's license as an immigrant

The process depends on what immigration status you hold and which state you live in. Some states issue licenses to people regardless of immigration status; others require proof of legal residency or citizenship. You will need to visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent office in person, bring specific documents, pass a written test and a driving test, and pay a fee. The documents you bring and the proof of residency or status you need will vary by state — there is no single federal rule.

Start by checking your state's DMV website to see what documents that state accepts. The rules changed significantly after 2013, when some states began issuing licenses to immigrants without legal status, so even if you were told "no" years ago, the answer may be different now.

Key Takeaways

  • About 20 states issue driver's licenses to immigrants without legal status; the rest require proof of legal residency or citizenship, so your state's specific rules determine what you can do.
  • You will need a passport or national ID from your home country, proof of your current address, and proof of your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), which you can obtain before explore for the license.
  • Most states require you to pass a written knowledge test and a behind-the-wheel driving test; some offer the written test in languages other than English.
  • The fee ranges from roughly $20 to $150 depending on the state and whether you are renewing or getting your first license.
  • Processing time is usually one to two weeks after you pass both tests, though some states mail the license and others let you pick it up in person.

Which states allow licenses for immigrants without legal status

As of now, roughly 20 states and Washington, D.C. issue driver's licenses or driving privilege cards to immigrants regardless of immigration status. These include California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, Washington, and a few others. The rules in these states typically require proof of identity and proof of residency, but not proof of legal status.

If you live in a state not on this list, you will need to show proof of legal residency — usually a green card, visa, employment authorization document (EAD), or other document showing you are authorized to be in the United States. Check your state's DMV website to see the exact list of documents your state accepts, because the rules vary. Some states accept temporary protected status (TPS) documents; others do not.

Documents you will need to bring

Every state requires proof of identity and proof of your current address. For identity, bring your passport or national ID from your home country. Some states also accept a consular ID card issued by your country's embassy or consulate in the United States — for example, a Mexican consulate issues an ID called a matrícula consular. Check your state's DMV website to see whether your specific document is accepted.

For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and current address. The document usually must be dated within the last 60 days, though this varies by state.

You will also need to prove your Social Security number or obtain an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if you do not have a Social Security number. An ITIN is a nine-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to people who file taxes but are not may be able to access for a Social Security number. You can explore for an ITIN by filing a tax return with the IRS, even if you did not earn income — many immigrants use Form 1040-NR or 1040 along with Form W-7. You do not need to hire a tax preparer; you can file on your own or with help from a free tax preparation service. Once you have an ITIN, you will receive a letter from the IRS confirming it, which you can bring to the DMV.

Proof of legal status (if your state requires it)

If you live in a state that requires proof of legal residency, bring the document that shows your status. A green card (Permanent Resident Card) is the most straightforward document. If you have a visa, bring your passport with the visa stamp. If you have an employment authorization document (EAD), bring that. If you have a temporary protected status (TPS) document, check your state's DMV website first to confirm it accepts TPS — not all states do.

Some states also accept I-94 arrival/departure records, I-797 notices of action from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), or other USCIS documents. Again, check your state's specific list before you go to the DMV, because bringing the wrong document means a wasted trip.

Taking the written test and driving test

After you submit your documents and pay the fee, you will take a written knowledge test about traffic laws and road signs. Most states offer this test in English only, but some offer it in Spanish and a few other languages — check your state's DMV website to see what languages are available where you live. You can study using the DMV's official handbook, which is free and available online in multiple languages on most state DMV websites.

Once you pass the written test, you will schedule a behind-the-wheel driving test with a DMV examiner. You must bring a vehicle, a valid ID, and proof of insurance. If you do not own a car, you can usually borrow one from a friend or family member, but the vehicle must be registered and insured. Some states allow you to use a driving school's car for the test.

The driving test usually lasts 20 to 30 minutes and covers basic skills like starting the car, turning, parking, and following traffic laws. You must pass this test to receive your license.

Timeline and fees

The written test and driving test can often be scheduled on the same day or within a few days of each other, depending on your state and how busy your local DMV is. After you pass both tests, your license is usually processed within one to two weeks. Some states mail the license to your address; others let you pick it up at the DMV office where you tested.

Fees vary by state. A first-time driver's license typically costs between $20 and $150. Some states charge less for a license that is valid for four years and more for one valid for eight years. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee.

Getting help if you speak limited English

Many DMV offices have interpreters available, though you may need to request one in advance. Call your local DMV office or check its website to ask whether an interpreter is available for your language and how to request one. Some DMV offices have staff who speak Spanish; others may require you to bring your own interpreter or use a video interpretation service.

For the written test, ask whether your state offers the test in your language. If it does not, you may be able to bring an interpreter to read the test questions to you, though policies vary by state. Again, call ahead to ask.

Free legal aid organizations and immigrant advocacy groups in your area may also offer help understanding the process or preparing for the tests. Search online for "[your city or state] immigrant legal services" to find organizations near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Social Security number to get a driver's license?

Not necessarily. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can obtain an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) from the IRS by filing a tax return. Many states accept an ITIN in place of a Social Security number for the DMV. Check your state's DMV website to confirm.

What if I have a visa but it is about to expire?

Most states will issue you a license as long as your visa is currently valid when you explore. The license itself may be valid for longer than your visa — for example, your visa might expire in six months but your license might be valid for four years. Check your state's rules, as some states limit the license validity to match your visa expiration date.

Can I use a consular ID card instead of a passport?

Some states accept consular ID cards, but not all. A matrícula consular from a Mexican consulate, for example, is accepted in many states but not all. Check your state's DMV website to see whether your specific ID is on the accepted list.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the test. Most states let you schedule another test within a few days or weeks. You will usually have to pay the test fee again. Some states allow you to retake the test the same day if you fail; others require you to wait a few days.

Do I need to have car insurance to take the driving test?

Yes. The vehicle you use for the test must be registered and insured. If you do not own a car, you can borrow one from someone else as long as it meets these requirements. The insurance does not have to be in your name, but the vehicle must be insured.