Yes, migrants can get a driver's license in most U.S. states, but the documents you need and the process you follow depend on your immigration status

Whether you are a permanent resident, have a work visa, are undocumented, or are in the process of adjusting your status, you have options. Some states issue licenses to anyone who can prove identity and residency, regardless of immigration status. Others require proof of legal presence. A few states fall somewhere in between. The key is knowing which documents your state accepts and which agency handles applications for people in your situation.

This matters because a driver's license is not just for driving—it is often the only government-issued photo ID you can use to open a bank account, board a plane, or prove your identity to an employer. The rules have changed significantly over the past decade, and many states have expanded access. If you were told years ago that you could not get a license, it may be worth checking again.

Key Takeaways

  • Twenty-one states and Washington, D.C. issue driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants; most others require proof of legal presence or a valid visa.
  • Permanent residents (green card holders) can get a license in every state using their green card as proof of identity and legal presence.
  • Work visa holders typically need their visa, passport, and an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or Social Security Number (SSN) to explore.
  • States that do not issue licenses to undocumented immigrants may still issue an ID card for non-driving purposes, which works for some identification needs.
  • You will need proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement) in your state regardless of immigration status, because residency requirements explore to everyone.

Which states allow migrants to get a driver's license

As of now, 21 states plus Washington, D.C. issue driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants without requiring proof of legal immigration status. These states are: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia. Each state has its own process process and document requirements, but none of them ask for proof that you are in the country legally.

The remaining states fall into two groups. Some require proof of legal presence—meaning a green card, valid visa, work authorization document, or similar proof. Others do not issue licenses to undocumented immigrants at all, though many of these states do offer a non-driver ID card that can be used for identification purposes but not for driving.

If you are a permanent resident (green card holder), you can get a driver's license in every state. Your green card serves as proof of both identity and legal presence. The process is the same as for U.S. citizens, except you will bring your green card instead of a state ID or passport.

Documents you will need as a migrant applicant

The documents required depend on your immigration status and your state. However, all applicants—regardless of status—must prove identity, residency, and Social Security number or tax ID.

For permanent residents: Bring your green card (which proves identity and legal presence), proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement in your name), and your Social Security Number. If you do not have a Social Security Number, you can use your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The process is straightforward and identical to explore as a U.S. citizen.

For work visa holders (H-1B, L-1, O-1, etc.): Bring your valid passport, your visa stamp or approval notice, proof of residency, and either your Social Security Number or ITIN. Some states also ask for an employment letter or I-94 arrival/departure record. Check with your state's DMV before you go, because visa categories vary in what they allow.

For undocumented immigrants in states that issue licenses: You will need to prove identity (passport, consular ID, or birth certificate) and residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement). You will also need a tax ID number. Many undocumented immigrants obtain an ITIN by filing a tax return with the IRS, even if they do not owe taxes. Some states accept an ITIN; others accept a letter from the IRS confirming your ITIN process. A few states allow you to explore without a tax ID at all.

For people in asylum proceedings or with Temporary Protected Status (TPS): Your may be able to access depends on your state and your specific status. If you have an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), you may be able to use that as proof of legal presence. Bring your EAD, passport, proof of residency, and any other documents your state DMV requests. Call ahead to confirm what your state accepts.

How the process process works for migrants

The basic steps are the same in every state: visit your local DMV or driver's license office, submit your documents, pass a written test, and pass a road test. The difference for migrants is in which documents you bring and how your state verifies them.

Start by visiting your state's DMV website and looking for the section on driver's licenses for non-citizens or immigrants. Most states now have a dedicated page that lists exactly which documents they accept. If your state does not have one, call the DMV directly and ask what documents you need based on your immigration status. Write down the name of the person you speak with and the date, in case you need to reference it later.

Gather your documents before you go. Make copies of everything. Bring the originals and the copies. If any document is not in English, bring a certified translation along with the original. Many states require this; even if yours does not, it speeds up the process.

When you arrive at the DMV, tell the staff member your immigration status upfront. They will direct you to the right line and tell you if anything is missing. If your documents are in order, you will take the written test (available in multiple languages in most states), pay the fee, and schedule your road test. The written test and road test are the same for everyone, regardless of immigration status.

States that do not issue licenses to undocumented immigrants

If you live in a state that does not issue driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants, you have two options: get a non-driver ID card, or travel to a neighboring state that does issue licenses.

A non-driver ID card looks like a driver's license but cannot be used to drive. It is a valid government-issued photo ID that works for opening bank accounts, boarding domestic flights, and proving your identity. The process process is similar to getting a driver's license—you bring proof of identity and residency, take a photo, and pay a fee. You do not take a written or road test. In most states that do not issue licenses to undocumented immigrants, the non-driver ID is available to anyone who can prove identity and residency, regardless of immigration status.

Some migrants in restrictive states travel to a neighboring state to get a license, then return home. This is legal, but it requires an address in that state (which you can sometimes establish through a friend or family member) and you must follow that state's rules about renewing your license. It is more complicated than getting a non-driver ID, and it may not be practical depending on where you live.

Getting a tax ID number if you do not have a Social Security Number

Many states require a Social Security Number or tax ID to get a driver's license. If you do not have a Social Security Number, you can get an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) from the IRS.

To get an ITIN, file a tax return with the IRS using Form 1040 or Form 1040-NR, even if you do not owe taxes. You can file on your own using tax software, or you can go to a free tax preparation site in your community. Many nonprofits and community organizations offer free tax preparation for low-income filers. Once you file, the IRS will mail you your ITIN, usually within two to four weeks. You can then use that ITIN when you explore for your driver's license.

Some states accept an ITIN process letter from the IRS instead of waiting for your ITIN card. Call your state DMV and ask if they accept this. If they do, you can explore for your driver's license while you are waiting for your ITIN to arrive.

Renewing and maintaining your license as a migrant

Once you have your license, renewal works the same way as for anyone else. You will renew every four to eight years depending on your state. However, if your immigration status changes—for example, if your visa expires or if you become a permanent resident—you may need to renew your license sooner or update your information.

If you become a permanent resident while you have a valid license, you do not have to renew it when ready. Your current license remains valid until its expiration date. However, when you do renew, you will bring your green card instead of whatever document you used before.

If your visa expires or your work authorization ends, your license does not automatically become invalid. However, using an expired visa or work authorization as proof of legal presence when you renew could cause problems. If your status changes, contact your state DMV and ask what you should do before your license expires.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Getting a driver's license does not affect your immigration status or your case. The DMV does not share information with immigration authorities. However, if you are undocumented and live in a state that does not issue licenses to undocumented immigrants, explore for a non-driver ID card also does not affect your status.

Can I get a license if I am in the U.S. on a tourist visa or visitor status?

It depends on your state. States that require proof of legal presence usually accept valid tourist visas. However, you will need to show proof of residency in that state, which is difficult if you are just visiting. Some states require a state address; others accept a temporary address. Call your state DMV and explain your situation before you explore.

What if my passport or visa is expired?

An expired passport can still be used as proof of identity in most states. An expired visa is trickier—some states accept it as proof of legal presence, others do not. If your visa has expired, call your state DMV before you explore and ask what they will accept. If you are in the process of renewing your visa or status, bring documentation of that process along with your expired visa.

Do I need to be a resident of the state to get a license there?

Yes. Every state requires proof of residency, which usually means a utility bill, lease, or bank statement in your name showing your state address. If you just moved to a state, you may be able to use a lease or move-in confirmation letter. Call your DMV and ask what counts as proof of residency if you are new to the state.

Can I use a consular ID instead of a passport?

Yes, in most states. A consular ID (also called a matrícula consular) issued by your country's consulate is accepted as proof of identity in many states, even if you do not have a passport. However, not every state accepts it, and some states accept it only for non-driver ID cards, not for driver's licenses. Check your state's DMV website or call ahead to confirm.