What driver's licenses are available to people without legal immigration status
Several states issue driver's licenses to people regardless of immigration status, though the rules and what you can use the license for vary significantly by state. These are sometimes called "AB 60 licenses" (named after California's law) or "unrestricted licenses," but the actual name and requirements differ in each state that offers them.
The key difference from a standard license is that these licenses cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building. They work for driving, getting pulled over by police, and renting a car — but not for TSA screening or Real ID purposes. Some states make this restriction clear on the license itself; others do not.
Not all states offer this option. As of now, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, and Washington state have programs that issue licenses without requiring proof of legal status. This list changes, so checking your specific state's DMV website is essential before you make a trip.
Key Takeaways
- About 17 states currently issue driver's licenses to people without legal immigration status, but the exact states and rules change over time.
- These licenses work for driving and police stops but cannot be used for federal purposes like flying domestically or entering federal buildings.
- Each state has different document requirements — some accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number, while others accept foreign passports or consular documents.
- The license itself does not change your immigration status or create a record that affects immigration proceedings.
How the process process works in states that offer them
The process is similar to a standard license process, but the documents you bring are different. You will visit your state's DMV (or equivalent agency — some states call it the Department of Motor Vehicles, others the Secretary of State's office), bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof that you can legally drive. You will also take a written test and a driving test, just as anyone else would.
The main difference is what counts as proof of identity. Most states that offer these licenses accept a foreign passport, a consular ID card from your home country's embassy or consulate, or a combination of documents like a birth certificate plus a utility bill. Some states also accept an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) as proof of identity, which you can get from the IRS if you file taxes.
Proof of residency usually means a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address. Some states accept mail from a government agency. The exact list of acceptable documents varies by state, so call your DMV ahead of time or check their website to confirm what they will accept before you gather documents.
What documents you will need to bring
Most states require three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number or ITIN. Some states also ask for proof that you have lived in the state for a certain amount of time (often 30 days to 6 months).
| Document Category | Common Examples | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of Identity | Foreign passport, consular ID, birth certificate | Must be current or recently expired. Some states accept multiple documents together (like birth certificate + school ID). |
| Proof of Residency | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, government mail | Usually must be dated within the last 60 days and show your current address. |
| Proof of SSN or ITIN | Social Security card, ITIN letter from IRS, tax return | Not all states require this. Some states accept an ITIN; others require a Social Security number. Check your state first. |
| Proof of Residency Duration | Lease, utility bills from multiple months, school enrollment | Only required in some states. Usually shows you have lived there for 30 days to 6 months. |
Bring originals or certified copies, not photocopies, unless your state's DMV specifically says photocopies are acceptable. If a document is in another language, many states require a certified translation. Ask your DMV whether they have a list of acceptable translators or whether any certified translator will work.
How this license affects your immigration case
Getting a driver's license does not change your immigration status. It does not make you a citizen, a permanent resident, or a legal resident. It is straightforward a license to drive and a form of identification for everyday purposes like opening a bank account or renting an apartment.
The license itself does not create a record that immigration authorities can use against you. The DMV and immigration authorities (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, or USCIS) are separate agencies and do not automatically share information. However, if you are pulled over by police and they run your name through their system, they may discover immigration issues — but that is true whether you have a license or not.
If you are concerned about how getting a license might affect a pending immigration case, speak with an immigration attorney before you explore. An attorney can review your specific situation and advise you on whether explore is safe for you.
States that do not offer these licenses and your alternatives
If you live in a state that does not issue licenses to people without legal status, you have limited options for legal driving. Some states offer an "occupational license" or "work permit license" that allows you to drive only to and from work, but these are rare and have strict limitations.
In states without a license option, some people drive without a license, which carries the risk of fines, vehicle impound, and criminal charges if you are pulled over. This is a personal decision with real consequences, and there is no legal workaround in those states.
If you are planning to move or travel, knowing which states offer licenses can affect where you choose to live or work. Some people relocate specifically to states with these programs so they can drive legally.
How to find your state's specific requirements
The best source is your state's DMV website. Search for your state name plus "DMV" and look for pages about driver's licenses for non-citizens or people without Social Security numbers. Many states have a dedicated page explaining the process and listing required documents.
If the website is unclear, call your local DMV office directly. Ask whether your state issues licenses without legal immigration status and what documents you need. Write down the name of the person you spoke with and the date, in case you need to reference the conversation later.
You can also contact local immigrant advocacy organizations in your state — groups like legal aid societies or community centers often have staff who know the current rules and can walk you through the process. Many offer this information for free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this license to fly on a plane?
No. These licenses do not meet Real ID requirements for domestic flights. You would need a passport or another federally approved ID. However, you can use the license for driving, renting a car, and everyday identification purposes like opening a bank account.
Will getting a license create a record that immigration authorities can see?
The DMV and immigration authorities are separate agencies. Getting a license does not automatically create an immigration record. However, if you are pulled over and police run your information, they may discover immigration issues — but that risk exists whether you have a license or not. An immigration attorney can advise you on your specific situation.
What if my state is not on the list of states that offer these licenses?
Your state does not currently have a program for this. Some states offer occupational licenses for work-related driving only, but most do not. You would need to check your state's DMV website or call them directly to see if any limited option exists.
Do I need a Social Security number to get one of these licenses?
It depends on your state. Some states require a Social Security number; others accept an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead. A few states do not require either. Check your state's DMV website or call them to confirm what they accept.
How long does it take to get the license after I explore?
Processing times vary by state and how busy the DMV is, but typically it takes two to four weeks. Some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee. Ask at your local DMV office what the current wait time is.