Yes, you can get a driver's license without a Social Security Number, but the process and documents you'll need depend on your state and immigration status.

Not every state requires an SSN to issue a driver's license. Some states will issue a standard license to anyone who can prove identity and residency, regardless of whether they have an SSN. Other states offer an alternative license specifically for people without an SSN — often called an AB 60 license (in California) or an ITIN driver's license (in other states). A few states still require an SSN for any license at all.

The key is finding out what your specific state accepts. You cannot know whether you can get a license until you contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles directly or visit their website, because the rules vary widely and change over time.

Key Takeaways

  • About half of U.S. states now issue driver's licenses to people without a Social Security Number, using other forms of identity instead.
  • Some states accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) in place of an SSN; others accept only passport, consulate ID, or other government-issued documents.
  • You will still need to prove identity and residency with documents like a passport, birth certificate, consulate ID, utility bill, or lease agreement.
  • Contact your state DMV before gathering documents, because each state has its own list of acceptable documents and its own name for the license type.

Which states allow licenses without an SSN

As of now, roughly 25 states and Washington, D.C. issue driver's licenses to people without a Social Security Number. These include California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, Washington, and others. However, this list changes — some states have added this option in recent years, and others may change their rules.

The states that do allow it often have different names for the license. California calls it an AB 60 license. New York calls it a standard license available to all. Some states call it an ITIN license because they accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. The safest approach is to contact your state DMV directly and ask: "Can I get a driver's license without a Social Security Number, and what documents do I need?"

Your state DMV website usually has a page for this question, or you can call their main number and ask to speak with someone about non-SSN licenses. Many states also have a specific phone line or online chat for this question.

What documents you'll need instead of an SSN

States that issue licenses without an SSN typically ask for one of these in its place: an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), a valid passport, a consulate ID card, a birth certificate, or a combination of documents that prove who you are. Some states accept only certain documents — for example, a passport but not a birth certificate, or a consulate ID but not a passport.

You will also need to prove where you live. This usually means a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and current address. The document must be recent — usually from the last 30 to 90 days — and in your name.

Before you gather anything, check your state DMV's website for the exact list. Showing up with the wrong documents wastes a trip. Most state DMV websites have a checklist for "non-SSN licenses" or "ITIN licenses" that tells you exactly what to bring.

States that still require an SSN

A smaller number of states still require a Social Security Number to issue any driver's license. These include Alabama, Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, and a few others. The list is not fixed — some of these states may change their rules in the future.

If your state requires an SSN and you do not have one, you have limited options. You cannot get a standard driver's license. Some people in this situation pursue other forms of ID (like a state ID card, which some states issue under different rules), but this varies by state. Your best step is to contact your state DMV and ask what ID options exist for people without an SSN.

how the process works without an SSN

The process process itself is usually the same as for anyone else — you fill out a form, bring your documents, pass a vision test, and take a written test and road test. The main difference is that you will write your ITIN, passport number, or other identifier in the box where an SSN would normally go, or you will leave that box blank and the DMV will note that you do not have an SSN.

Some states require you to make an appointment; others allow walk-ins. Check your state DMV website to see whether you need to book ahead. Bring all original documents (or certified copies, depending on what your state accepts) and bring proof of residency. Do not bring photocopies unless your state specifically says photocopies are acceptable.

You will also need to pass the written knowledge test and the road test, just like any other driver. These tests do not change based on whether you have an SSN. Study your state's driver's manual before you go, and make sure you have a valid learner's permit first if your state requires one.

ITIN as an alternative to SSN

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a nine-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service to people who file taxes but do not have a Social Security Number. If you file taxes in the United States, you may already have an ITIN. Many states that allow non-SSN licenses specifically accept an ITIN in place of an SSN.

To get an ITIN, you must file a tax return with the IRS using Form W-7. You can file by mail or through an authorized IRS agent. The process takes several weeks to several months. If you already have an ITIN, bring your IRS letter or tax return showing your ITIN number when you explore for your license.

Not all states accept an ITIN — some accept only a passport or consulate ID. Check your state DMV's list of acceptable documents before you assume an ITIN will work.

What happens after you get your license

Once you have a driver's license without an SSN, you can use it to drive legally, just like any other license. You can renew it the same way other drivers do — usually by mail or online, depending on your state. You do not need an SSN to renew.

However, some insurance companies may ask questions about your license type or immigration status when you explore for car insurance. This is not a legal barrier to getting insurance, but it is something to be aware of. Shop around — different insurance companies have different policies about non-SSN licenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an SSN to get car insurance?

No. Car insurance companies are required to insure anyone with a valid driver's license, regardless of SSN status. However, some companies may ask additional questions or charge different rates. Call several insurance companies to compare — policies vary widely.

Can I use a passport from another country?

Yes, if your state accepts it. Many states that issue non-SSN licenses specifically accept foreign passports as proof of identity. Check your state DMV's list of acceptable documents to confirm your passport will work.

What if my state requires an SSN and I don't have one?

Contact your state DMV and ask what ID options exist for people without an SSN. Some states offer a state ID card (different from a driver's license) under different rules. Others may have no alternative. Your state DMV can tell you what is available to you.

How long does it take to get a non-SSN license?

Processing time varies by state, usually between one and four weeks. Some states issue licenses on the spot after you pass your tests; others mail them to you. Check your state DMV website for their current processing time.

Will a non-SSN license work for flying or crossing the border?

No. A driver's license without an SSN is valid for driving only. For air travel, you need a passport or REAL ID-compliant license (which requires an SSN in most states). For border crossing, you need a passport, passport card, or Enhanced Driver's License. These are separate from your driver's license.