Which states offer Driver's Licenses to Undocumented Immigrants in the US?
By 2025, 19 states plus DC will be processing licenses for undocumented immigrants. Colorado has just simplified the process: now you only need a passport and proof of residence. Here we tell you all the states, costs, and what documents to bring.
What does an immigrant need to get a driver's license in the United States?
You must have documentation proving you live legally in the United States and have permission or authorization to be in the country. The documents required to apply for a driver's license can vary by state , so we recommend checking your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website to find out what you need.
In general, these are the requirements :
- Identification with your name, photo and date of birth. Your passport, for example.
- Social Security Number
- Documents that validate your legal presence in the United States, such as a visa, Green Card or certificate of citizenship.
- Proof that you reside in the State such as an ID, utility bill, or bank statement.
- Your international driving license.
How much does it cost to get a driver's license in the United States?
The cost of a driver's license varies significantly depending on the state where it is applied for, ranging from $9 to $33 for states like Texas and up to $100 for the state of New York.
In which US states can undocumented immigrants obtain a driver's license?
Below is a list of states where you can apply for a driver's license as an undocumented immigrant:
- Washington.
- Virginia.
- Vermont.
- Utah.
- Oregon.
- New York.
- New Mexico.
- New Jersey
- Snowfall.
- Maryland.
- Illinois.
- Hawaii.
- D.C.
- Delaware.
- Connecticut.
- Colorado.
- California.
What alternative documents can undocumented immigrants present to apply for a driver's license?
There are no alternative documents for this application; the required documents are those mentioned in the section above . Without them, it will not be possible to validate your legal status in the country, and therefore, your driver's license cannot be issued.
Why is it important that licenses for undocumented immigrants not be used as proof of legal residence?
It is important that driver's licenses for undocumented immigrants not be used as proof of legal residency because these licenses are specifically for people who do not have legal immigration status in the country. Using them as proof of legal residency could create confusion or misunderstandings about the person's immigration status and could lead to legal problems later on.