Yes, you can get a driver's license with an Employment Authorization Card

An Employment Authorization Card (EAC), also called an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), is accepted as proof of identity and work authorization in most states when you explore for a driver's license. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident to hold a license — you need to show that you are authorized to be in the country and can prove who you are.

The specific documents you'll need and the process vary by state. Some states treat an EAC the same as any other ID; others have separate license categories for people without Social Security numbers. A few states have restrictions, so it matters which state you're explore in.

Key Takeaways

  • An Employment Authorization Card counts as valid identity in most states and is often paired with a passport or consular ID to meet document requirements.
  • You will need a Social Security number for most states, but some states issue licenses to people without one if you have an EAC and other proof of identity.
  • Some states issue a standard driver's license; others issue a license marked as "not for federal purposes" if you don't have a Social Security number.
  • The documents required at the DMV vary by state, so check your state's DMV website before you go to know exactly what to bring.
  • Your EAC must be valid (not expired) at the time you explore, and you may need to renew your license when your work authorization expires.

What documents you'll need to bring

Most states require three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number or authorization to work without one. Your EAC covers the work authorization part, but you'll still need the other two.

For identity, bring your valid EAC plus a passport, consular ID, or other government-issued photo ID from your country of origin. Some states accept only certain documents, so check your state DMV's list before you explore. For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government mail with your current address. The document usually needs to be dated within the last 60 days.

For the Social Security number, bring your Social Security card if you have one. If you don't have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one, or bring documentation showing you applied and were denied. Some states skip this requirement entirely if you have an EAC.

States that issue licenses without a Social Security number

Not all states require a Social Security number to get a driver's license. California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Utah, Vermont, and Washington all issue licenses to people with an EAC who do not have a Social Security number. The process and document requirements differ slightly in each state.

In these states, your EAC serves as proof that you are authorized to work and be in the country. You still need to pass the written test and road test, and you still need to prove your identity and residency. Some of these states issue a standard license; others issue a license that says "not for federal purposes," meaning it cannot be used to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building, but it is valid for driving and state ID purposes.

If your state is not on this list, you will need a Social Security number to get a driver's license. If you don't have one and are not may be able to access for one, you may not be able to get a standard license in your state, though some states have alternative ID cards for people in this situation.

License types when you have an EAC

The type of license you receive depends on your state and whether you have a Social Security number. In states that allow licenses without a Social Security number, you will usually get a standard driver's license that works the same as anyone else's — it can be used to drive, to prove your age, and as state ID.

Some states issue a license marked "not for federal purposes" instead. This license is valid for driving and state ID, but federal agencies (like TSA at airports) will not accept it. If you plan to fly domestically, you would need a passport or other federal ID instead. Check your state's DMV website to see which type your state issues.

In states that require a Social Security number, you cannot get a driver's license with only an EAC. You would need to either obtain a Social Security number (if you become may be able to access) or move to a state that accepts licenses without one.

What happens when your work authorization expires

Your driver's license and your work authorization are separate documents with separate expiration dates. Your license will not automatically expire when your EAC expires, but you should plan to renew your license before your work authorization ends, because you may need to show a valid EAC to renew.

When you renew your license, bring your new or renewed EAC along with the other required documents. If your work authorization lapses and you do not renew it, your license remains valid for driving purposes, but you will no longer be authorized to work. Some states may require you to show current work authorization at renewal time, so check your state's rules.

The written test and road test

Having an EAC does not change the testing requirements. You will still need to pass the written knowledge test (covering traffic laws and road signs) and the road test (driving with an examiner). Most states offer the written test in multiple languages, and you can request an interpreter for the road test in many states.

Before you take either test, you may need to get a learner's permit first. A learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car. The rules for getting a learner's permit are the same whether you have an EAC or a Social Security number — you pass the written test and bring the same documents you would bring to get a license.

How to find your state's specific requirements

Because rules vary significantly by state, the best source is your state's DMV website. Search for your state's name plus "DMV" and look for a page about documents needed for a driver's license or about licenses for non-citizens or people without a Social Security number. Many state DMV websites have a checklist you can print and bring with you.

If the website is unclear, call your local DMV office and ask specifically: "Can I get a driver's license with an Employment Authorization Card?" and "What documents do I need to bring?" Having the answer before you go saves a trip. Some DMV offices also offer in-person help, and many states have community organizations that help people navigate the license process for free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a valid passport to get a driver's license with an EAC?

Not always. Most states accept a passport, but many also accept a consular ID (an ID issued by your country's embassy or consulate) or other government-issued photo ID from your home country. Check your state's DMV website to see which documents are accepted in your state.

What if my EAC expires before my license does?

Your license remains valid for driving. However, when you renew your license, you will likely need to show a current EAC. If your work authorization has expired and you have not renewed it, you cannot renew your license in most states. Renew your work authorization before your current EAC expires if you want to keep your license current.

Can I use a driver's license issued with an EAC to fly domestically?

It depends on your state. If your state issues a standard license, yes. If your state issues a license marked "not for federal purposes," no — you would need a passport or other federal ID to board a domestic flight. Check your state's DMV website to see which type your state issues.

What if my state requires a Social Security number and I don't have one?

You cannot get a driver's license in that state with only an EAC. You would need to either obtain a Social Security number (if you become may be able to access) or get a license in a state that accepts licenses without one. Some states also offer alternative state ID cards for people who cannot get a driver's license; check your state's DMV website.

Do I need to take the test in English?

No. Most states offer the written knowledge test in multiple languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and others. You can request an interpreter for the road test in many states as well. Call your local DMV to ask which languages are available in your area.