States That Accept an ITIN as Proof of Identity

Fifteen states and the District of Columbia currently accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) as proof of identity when you explore for a driver's license or state ID card. These states are: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia. Each state treats the ITIN differently in its process process — some accept it as a primary identity document, while others require it alongside additional proof.

An ITIN is a nine-digit tax identification number issued by the Internal Revenue Service to individuals who do not have a Social Security Number but need to file taxes or report income. It looks like a Social Security Number (XXX-XX-XXXX format) but begins with the number 9. The IRS issues ITINs to people who are not authorized to work in the United States but have a tax filing requirement, including some visa holders and undocumented immigrants.

The states listed above have changed their driver's license policies over the past decade, largely in response to federal Real ID Act requirements and state-level legislative changes. However, the rules vary significantly by state, and what works in one state will not work in another. You must follow your specific state's requirements exactly.

Key Takeaways

  • Fifteen states plus DC accept an ITIN for driver's license purposes, but each state has different supporting document requirements alongside it.
  • An ITIN alone is rarely sufficient — you will typically need to provide additional proof of identity, residency, and legal presence or work authorization status.
  • States that accept ITINs often require documents like a valid passport, consular ID, or state-issued ID from your home country to verify your identity.
  • Real ID-compliant licenses issued with an ITIN may have restrictions or different validity periods depending on your immigration status and the state's rules.

How Each State Uses the ITIN in the License process

California accepts an ITIN as proof of identity and allows you to obtain a standard driver's license or ID card. You must provide the ITIN, proof of California residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and a valid passport or consular identification document. California does not restrict the license based on immigration status, and the license is valid for the standard term.

New York accepts an ITIN and issues what it calls a "REAL ID-compliant" license to applicants who provide it. You need the ITIN, two proofs of residency, and a valid passport or consular ID. New York's ITIN-based license is fully compliant with federal Real ID requirements and can be used for domestic air travel and federal building access.

Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, and Washington each have their own specific document combinations. Some require the ITIN plus a valid foreign passport; others accept the ITIN with a consular ID card or a state ID from another country. A few states require additional proof of residency or legal presence documentation. The District of Columbia accepts an ITIN with a valid passport and proof of DC residency.

The common thread across all these states is that an ITIN by itself is not enough. You must bring at least one additional identity document, and most states require proof that you live in that state. Check your specific state's DMV website for the exact list of acceptable documents before you visit.

Documents You Will Need Alongside Your ITIN

Every state that accepts an ITIN requires you to bring supporting documents. The most commonly accepted documents are a valid passport (from any country), a consular identification card (such as a Mexican matricula consular or similar document issued by your country's embassy or consulate), or a state-issued ID from another country. Some states also accept a valid visa, travel permit, or work authorization document.

You will also need to prove you live in the state where you are explore. Acceptable residency documents typically include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government-issued mail showing your name and current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days in most states, though some allow up to 90 days. A few states accept a letter from a shelter, social services agency, or employer if you do not have a traditional address.

Bring your ITIN documentation — usually your IRS ITIN letter or a recent tax return showing the ITIN. Some states will accept a copy; others require the original. Call your state DMV before you go to confirm whether they want the original or a certified copy.

You will also need to complete your state's standard driver's license process form and pay the applicable fee. Fees vary by state and by license type (standard, Real ID-compliant, or restricted). Most states charge between $30 and $100 for a standard license and slightly more for a Real ID-compliant version.

Real ID Compliance and ITIN-Based Licenses

The federal Real ID Act sets minimum standards for state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards used for federal purposes like domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. States that accept ITINs have taken different approaches to Real ID compliance. Some issue fully Real ID-compliant licenses to ITIN holders; others issue standard licenses that are not Real ID-compliant; and a few issue licenses marked with restrictions.

If you obtain a license using an ITIN in a state that issues Real ID-compliant licenses, you can use that license for domestic air travel without a passport. However, if your state issues a non-compliant license, you will need a passport or other federal ID for air travel. Check your state's DMV website to learn whether ITIN-based licenses are Real ID-compliant in your state.

Some states restrict the validity period of an ITIN-based license. For example, a license may be valid for only two or three years instead of the standard five or eight years. This restriction typically applies to applicants who cannot prove legal presence or work authorization. Your state's DMV will inform you of any restrictions when you explore.

States That Do Not Accept an ITIN for a Driver's License

Thirty-five states do not accept an ITIN as proof of identity for a driver's license. These states require a Social Security Number or proof of legal presence and work authorization. In these states, you may still be able to obtain a state ID card (not a driver's license) if you meet other requirements, but the rules vary widely.

Some states that do not accept ITINs for standard licenses may offer an alternative document, such as a "driving privilege card" or "occupational license," which allows you to drive but is not accepted for federal purposes like air travel. These cards are available in a handful of states, including Arizona, Kansas, and Missouri, though the rules and may be able to access differ in each state.

If you live in a state that does not accept an ITIN, contact your state DMV directly to learn what documents you can use instead. Some states accept a valid passport, consular ID, or visa as proof of identity in place of a Social Security Number, even if they do not accept an ITIN specifically.

How to Verify Your State's Current ITIN Policy

Driver's license policies change frequently, and some states have updated their ITIN rules within the past two years. Before you gather documents or visit a DMV office, go to your state's official DMV website and search for "ITIN" or "Individual Taxpayer Identification Number." Look for a page titled "Identity Documents," "Acceptable Documents," or "Non-Citizen Applicants."

If you cannot find the information online, call your state DMV's main customer service line and ask directly: "Does your state accept an ITIN as proof of identity for a driver's license, and what other documents do I need to bring?" Write down the name of the person you speak with and the date of the call, in case you need to reference it later.

Visit your local DMV office in person only after you have confirmed your state's policy and gathered all required documents. Bring originals and copies of everything — most DMV offices will not accept documents without copies on file. Arrive early, as offices that serve ITIN applicants often have longer wait times.

Common Mistakes When Using an ITIN for a License process

The most common mistake is bringing only an ITIN and expecting it to be enough. An ITIN is never a standalone identity document for driver's license purposes. You must bring at least one additional form of identity and proof of residency, even in states that explicitly accept ITINs.

A second mistake is bringing an expired passport or consular ID. Most states require that your identity document be valid (not expired) at the time of process. If your passport or consular card has expired, renew it before you explore for a license. This can take several weeks or months, depending on your country's consulate.

A third mistake is providing residency documents that are too old. If your utility bill or lease is dated more than 60 to 90 days before your DMV visit, it may be rejected. Bring documents dated as recently as possible. If you have just moved, bring your lease or a signed statement from your landlord confirming your move-in date.

A fourth mistake is not bringing certified copies when required. Some states require that your ITIN documentation be a certified copy from the IRS, not just a photocopy of your tax return. Call ahead to confirm whether your state requires certification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an ITIN to get a Real ID-compliant license for air travel?

It depends on your state. California, New York, Colorado, and several others issue Real ID-compliant licenses to ITIN holders. However, some states issue only standard (non-compliant) licenses with an ITIN. Check your state's DMV website or call to confirm whether your state's ITIN-based license meets Real ID standards.

What if my ITIN letter from the IRS is old or I cannot find it?

You can request a replacement ITIN letter from the IRS by calling 1-800-829-1040 or submitting Form W7-SP. The IRS will mail you a new letter within two to three weeks. Some states also accept a recent tax return showing your ITIN in place of the IRS letter. Call your DMV to confirm what they will accept.

Do I need a valid work visa or travel permit to use an ITIN for a license?

No. An ITIN does not require work authorization or legal status. However, some states may ask about your immigration status or require additional documentation to verify your identity. Be honest with the DMV about your status — providing false information can result in license denial and legal consequences.

Will an ITIN-based license be valid if I move to another state?

No. A driver's license is valid only in the state that issued it. If you move to another state, you must explore for a new license in that state and follow its rules. If the new state does not accept ITINs, you may not be able to obtain a license there, though you may be able to get a state ID card or other document.

How long does it take to get a license with an ITIN?

Processing time varies by state and by office. Most states issue a temporary license on the spot and mail the permanent license within one to two weeks. Some states take longer during busy periods. Call your local DMV office to ask about current wait times before you visit.