Which states issue driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants

Twenty-one states and Washington, D.C. currently issue driver's licenses or driving permits to undocumented immigrants. These states are: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, and Wyoming. Each state sets its own rules about what documents you need, what the license looks like, and how long it remains valid.

The remaining states do not issue licenses to undocumented immigrants. In those states, you cannot obtain a standard driver's license through the normal process, though some offer alternative documents like driving permits or ID cards with different restrictions or purposes.

Key Takeaways

  • Twenty-one states and Washington, D.C. issue driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants, but each state has different document requirements and rules.
  • States that allow licenses typically require proof of identity, proof of state residency, and a Social Security number or an individual tax identification number (ITIN).
  • A license issued under these programs is valid only for driving within that state and cannot be used as federal identification for air travel or entering federal buildings.
  • The process and timeline vary by state, but most require an in-person visit to a Department of Motor Vehicles office with original documents.

Documents you will need to bring

The specific documents required depend on which state you are in, but most states that issue licenses to undocumented immigrants ask for similar proof. You will typically need a document showing your identity (a passport, consular ID, or national ID from your country of origin), proof that you live in that state (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and address), and either a Social Security number or an ITIN.

Some states accept additional forms of identity verification if you do not have a passport or consular ID. For example, California accepts a combination of documents like a birth certificate plus a school record or medical record. New York accepts a consular ID card or a passport. Check your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website for the exact list, because the accepted documents differ significantly from state to state.

Bring original documents or certified copies, not photocopies. The DMV staff will need to see and verify the originals before they process your request. If your documents are in another language, bring the originals and ask whether the DMV office has a translator available or whether you need to bring your own.

How the process process works

You must explore in person at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles office. Call ahead or check the website to find the office nearest you and to confirm their hours, because some offices have limited schedules or require appointments. Bring all your documents, your completed process form (which you can usually read from the DMV website or fill out at the office), and the required fee.

At the office, staff will verify your documents, take your photograph, and administer a written test on traffic laws and road signs. You will also take a driving test to demonstrate that you can operate a vehicle safely. Some states allow you to take the written test in your native language if English is not your first language. The DMV office can tell you whether this option is available and what languages they support.

After you pass both tests, the DMV will issue your license. The timeline varies by state — some issue licenses on the same day, while others mail them within one to two weeks. Ask the staff when you should expect to receive your license and whether you will receive a temporary permit to drive while you wait.

What the license can and cannot be used for

A driver's license issued to an undocumented immigrant under these state programs is valid for driving a personal vehicle within that state. You can use it to rent a car, purchase auto insurance, and drive on public roads. However, it cannot be used as federal identification. This means you cannot use it to board a domestic airplane, enter a federal building, or access certain government services that require a Real ID.

If you travel to another state, that state will not recognize your license as valid proof of identity for driving purposes, though you can still drive with it as long as you obey that state's traffic laws. Some states have reciprocal agreements that recognize licenses from other states, but the rules are complex and vary. If you plan to drive across state lines, contact the DMV in the state you are traveling to and ask whether your license will be recognized.

States that do not issue licenses but offer alternatives

In states that do not issue standard driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants, you may be able to obtain an alternative document. Some states issue driving permits that allow you to drive but are not considered official identification. Others issue ID cards that prove your identity and residency but do not permit you to drive. These alternatives have different rules and restrictions depending on the state.

For example, some states allow you to obtain a driving permit if you can prove you have taken a driver education course and passed a written test, even without a standard license. Other states issue ID cards that can be used for some purposes but not others. Check your state's DMV website or call the office directly to learn what options are available to you.

How to find your state's specific requirements

Because rules differ significantly by state, you need to check the official Department of Motor Vehicles website for the state where you live. Search for "[your state] DMV undocumented driver's license" or "[your state] DMV ITIN driver's license" to find the correct page. The DMV website will list the exact documents you need, the fees, the testing requirements, and the office locations where you can explore.

If you cannot find the information online or have questions the website does not answer, call your local DMV office directly. Staff can explain the process in detail, tell you which documents they will accept, and answer questions about your specific situation. Many DMV offices have bilingual staff or can connect you with a translator.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will getting a driver's license affect my immigration status?

Obtaining a driver's license in a state that allows it does not change your immigration status or trigger any immigration enforcement action. The license is issued by the state, not the federal government, and the DMV does not share your information with immigration authorities. However, if you are stopped by law enforcement for a traffic violation, the officer may ask about your immigration status during that interaction.

Can I use a driver's license issued to an undocumented immigrant to fly on an airplane?

No. These licenses are not Real ID compliant and cannot be used for domestic air travel. To board a domestic flight, you will need a passport, a consular ID, or another form of federal identification. Starting in 2025, a standard driver's license from any state will not be accepted for domestic flights unless it is Real ID compliant.

What happens if I move to a different state?

Your license remains valid in the state that issued it, but you cannot use it to obtain a license in another state unless that state also issues licenses to undocumented immigrants. If you move to a state that does not issue licenses to undocumented immigrants, you will not be able to renew or transfer your license. You would need to check whether that state offers any alternative documents.

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

Most states that issue licenses to undocumented immigrants accept either a Social Security number or an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). An ITIN is issued by the IRS and allows you to file taxes even if you do not have a Social Security number. If you do not have either, check your state's DMV website to see whether they accept alternative forms of tax identification or other documents.

How much does a driver's license cost?

Fees vary by state and typically range from $20 to $100 for a license that lasts four to eight years. Some states charge less for licenses issued to undocumented immigrants than for standard licenses. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee, and ask whether the office accepts cash, check, or card payment.