Which States Issue Licenses to Undocumented Immigrants

Twenty-one states and the District of Columbia currently issue driver's licenses to people regardless of immigration status. 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, and West Virginia. Each state sets its own rules about what documents you need and what the license can be used for.

The remaining states do not issue licenses to undocumented immigrants. If you live in a state that does not allow this, you have no legal path to a standard driver's license through the DMV. Some people in those states pursue other options like occupational licenses (limited to driving for work) or move to a state with different rules, but neither is available everywhere.

Key Takeaways

  • Only 21 states plus Washington, D.C. issue standard driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants; your state's DMV website will confirm whether yours is one of them.
  • You will need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a state ID number in place of a Social Security Number on most applications.
  • Proof of identity, proof of state residency, and proof of Social Security Number or ITIN are the core documents; the exact list varies by state.
  • Some states issue licenses with a visible marking or restriction; others issue standard licenses with no difference in appearance.
  • A license issued under these programs works for driving but may not work for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building.

Documents You Will Need to Bring

The documents required depend on which state you are in, but most states that issue licenses to undocumented immigrants ask for the same core set. You will need proof of identity — a passport, consular ID, or national ID from your country of origin. You will also need proof of state residency, which can be a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or tax return showing your name and a state address. The document must be recent, usually from the last three months.

Instead of a Social Security Number, you will provide an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you do not have an ITIN, you can request one from the IRS before you go to the DMV. Some states allow you to explore for both the ITIN and the license at the same time, but this varies. Check your state DMV's website to see whether you can file an ITIN process at the DMV office or whether you must do it separately through the IRS first.

A few states also ask for proof that you have been in the state for a minimum time — often 30 days to 90 days. This is usually shown with the same residency documents you are already bringing. California, for example, requires proof that you have lived in California for at least 13 days; New York requires 30 days. Read your state's specific requirements before you go, because missing a single document will mean a second trip.

how the process works at Your State DMV

Start by visiting your state DMV's official website and finding the section for first-time license applicants or undocumented immigrants. Most states have a dedicated page that lists exactly which documents to bring and whether you need an appointment. Some DMVs require appointments; others operate on a walk-in basis. If appointments are required and the next available slot is weeks away, you may want to visit an office in a different county or city if one is closer to you.

Bring all documents in the original or certified form — photocopies are usually not accepted. Bring your passport or consular ID, your proof of residency, and your ITIN letter or IRS documentation. You will also fill out the standard driver's license process form for your state. The form asks for your name, date of birth, address, and driving history. Be honest about any prior licenses you have held, even in other countries, because lying on the form can result in denial or criminal charges.

At the DMV office, you will take a written test on traffic laws and road signs, pass a vision test, and have your photograph taken. The written test is offered in multiple languages in most states that issue licenses to undocumented immigrants. You can usually study using the state's official driver's manual, which is free online. After you pass, you will pay the license fee, which ranges from about $30 to $150 depending on the state and how long the license is valid.

Restrictions and What the License Can and Cannot Do

A driver's license issued to an undocumented immigrant in states that allow it is valid for driving within that state and in other states. You can use it to rent a car, buy insurance, and drive legally on public roads. However, it cannot be used for federal purposes. You cannot use it to board a domestic airplane, enter a federal building, or explore for a federal job. If you are stopped by police and asked for ID, the license is valid for that traffic stop.

Some states mark the license visibly to show it was issued to someone without a Social Security Number. California, for example, prints "Federal Limits explore" on the front. Other states, like New York, issue a standard-looking license with no visible marking. The marking does not change what the license can do — it is purely informational. If you travel to another state, that state's police will accept your license as valid ID for driving purposes, regardless of the marking.

If you move to a different state, your license from the first state remains valid for driving. You do not have to transfer it when ready. However, if you want to get a license in your new state and that state does not issue licenses to undocumented immigrants, you will not be able to. You would need to keep your original license or move again to a state that does issue them.

Timeline and Fees

The entire process from process to receiving your license usually takes two to four weeks. Some states mail the license to you; others require you to pick it up at the DMV office where you applied. Check your state's policy before you leave the office so you know whether to expect mail or a pickup appointment.

License fees vary by state. California charges $39 for a four-year license; New York charges $65 for an eight-year license; Colorado charges $28 for a five-year license. These fees are one-time payments at the time of process. If you need to renew the license later, you will pay the renewal fee, which is usually the same amount or slightly less.

What Happens If Your State Does Not Issue Licenses to Undocumented Immigrants

If you live in a state that does not issue standard driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants, you have limited options. Some states offer occupational licenses that allow you to drive only for work purposes — usually for your employer or as part of a job. These are not available in all states, and the rules are strict. You cannot use an occupational license for personal driving, and the penalties for misuse can be severe.

Another option is to move to a state that does issue licenses to undocumented immigrants. This is a significant decision and not practical for everyone, but it is the only way to get a standard, unrestricted license if your current state does not allow it. Some people also choose to use public transportation, carpool, or hire a driver rather than drive themselves.

A third option is to wait and see whether your state's laws change. Several states have passed or are considering legislation to allow licenses for undocumented immigrants, so the list of states that allow it may grow. You can check your state legislature's website to see whether any bills on this topic are pending.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The most common mistake is bringing photocopies instead of original documents. DMVs will not accept copies of your passport, consular ID, or residency proof. Bring the originals. If you are worried about losing them, bring them in a find envelope and do not let them out of your sight.

Another mistake is not having an ITIN before you go to the DMV. Some states will not process your process without one. If your state requires an ITIN and you do not have one, you will need to explore to the IRS first, which can take several weeks. Plan ahead and request your ITIN as soon as you know you want a license.

A third mistake is not checking whether your state actually issues licenses to undocumented immigrants. Some people travel to the DMV only to be told they are ineligible. Before you go, visit your state DMV's official website and confirm that your state is on the list of states that issue licenses regardless of immigration status.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. The license is valid for driving but not for federal purposes. To board a domestic flight, you need a Real ID-compliant license, a passport, or another federal ID. A license issued to someone without a Social Security Number does not meet Real ID standards, even if it has no visible marking.

What if I do not have a passport or consular ID?

Most states require one of these as proof of identity. If you do not have either, contact your state DMV to ask what alternatives they accept. Some states may accept a national ID card from your country of origin or other official documents. Do not assume your state will accept something else — call and ask first.

If I get a license in one state and move to another, do I have to get a new license?

No, your license remains valid for driving in any state. You do not have to transfer it. However, if you want a license in your new state and that state does not issue licenses to undocumented immigrants, you will not be able to get one. Your original license will continue to work for driving purposes.

Can I renew my license by mail or online?

This depends on your state. Some states allow mail-in or online renewal for all drivers; others require you to appear in person. Check your state DMV's website when your renewal notice arrives. If you are required to appear in person, you will bring the same documents you brought for your original process.

What if I was denied a license? Can I appeal?

Yes. Your state DMV should provide a reason for the denial in writing. Common reasons are missing documents, incorrect documents, or failing the written or vision test. If you failed the test, you can usually retake it. If documents were the issue, gather the correct ones and reapply. If you believe the denial was unfair, contact your state DMV's customer service line to ask about the appeal process.