Proof of residency or citizenship is not required to process driver’s licenses in these areas
Although it is often difficult for undocumented immigrants to complete certain procedures in the United States, it is possible to obtain a driver’s license in certain entities.
Proof of residency or citizenship is not required to process a driver’s license, as it can be obtained with a foreign passport in some regions.
However, a 2005 law enacted that from 2023, driver’s licenses cannot be used as identification for certain federal agencies. Also, it is not a document supporting people finding jobs or receiving government benefits.
It is also not recommended to use these permits as identification at the time of boarding, as it is not a valid document from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and may be used as a basis for screening passengers.
The last state to allow immigrants without legal status to apply for a license in Massachusetts. The law was passed this month and will go into effect on July 1, 2023.
Most states aim to improve the mobility of immigrants, especially those who must drive to work, while increasing the cost of the document.
In the U.S. federal government, 17 other states issue driver’s licenses to foreigners living in the country, even if they have irregular immigration status, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.
However, immigrants must show proof of residency in the state in which they are applying.
States Where Undocumented Immigrants Can Get Driver’s Licenses
California
ID and proof of California residency are required. Knowledge tests, practical assessments and vision tests are also required.
Cost: $39.
Colorado
A passport, consular ID, or other document is required to prove your identity, as well as proof of Colorado residency. In addition, you will need to pass a written, practical and vision test.
Cost: $33.
Connecticut
First, you need to get a 90-day driver’s license and then process it. The next step is to pass a knowledge and vision test. After eight hours of training at a Connecticut driving school, you must also take a driving test.
The state also requires two forms of identification, a Social Security Administration disqualification certificate, and a Connecticut address proof.
Cost: $40 for the app and $84 for the license.
Delaware
Applicants must present documents proving their identity and two valid proof of residency in the state. Fingerprints are also collected. As part of the application, it is necessary to pass a vision test and a knowledge test of traffic rules.
Through this process, you can obtain a driver’s license, and within 10 days to 6 months, you must pass a driving assessment to obtain a license.
Cost: $20.
Hawaii
The first step is to pass a written, visual and practical driving test to obtain a driver’s license, after passing another assessment, you can obtain a driver’s license. Applicants must present proof of identity and two proofs of Hawaii residency.
Cost: $20.
Illinois
Undocumented immigrants must present a valid passport or consular registration and demonstrate that they have resided in Illinois for at least one year. Pass the visual, knowledge and practical exams. Documentation that the person is not eligible for a Social Security number is also required.
Cost: $30.
Maryland
Candidates must pass a knowledge test and a practical driving skills test. In addition, income tax returns for the last two years are required to be filed.
Cost: $48.
Snowfall
Immigrants with irregular immigration status can apply for a Nevada driver authorization card, which allows them to drive a motor vehicle but cannot be used as identification in the United States.
Proof of identification and proof of address with a Nevada zip code is required to obtain the card. Vision exams, both written and practical, must also be passed.
Cost: $22.25.
New Jersey
To obtain a driver’s license, foreigners in New Jersey must have a Social Security number or taxpayer identification number, regardless of their immigration status in the country. ID and proof of address are also required.
Cost: $18.
New York
All New York residents can apply for a driver’s license, whether they are American or foreign. The only thing required is ID and documents proving residency in the state.
Exchange Rate: Between $64.50 and $107.50.
new mexico
Immigrants in New Mexico can obtain a standard driver’s license by carrying proof of identification and two proofs of address. You will also need to pass a written test, vision test and practice test.
Additionally, there is an additional $15 fee to verify out-of-state driver records.
Price: $18 to $34.
Oregon
To apply for a license, proof of identity and proof of address is required. In the latter case, the state of Oregon allows you to produce oral testimony from someone who lives in the same area, which you can attend at a consultation if you don’t have documents proving your residency.
Also, you must pass an eye exam. Knowledge Written Exam $5, Practical $9
Cost: 60 BRL.
Utah
Obtaining a driver’s license requires identification, a social security number or taxpayer identification number, and two proofs of address proving the applicant resides in Utah. Drivers also need to pass a driving test.
Cost: $55.
Vermont
The Vermont state requires drivers to be at least 18 years old and to pass a practical driving test and a knowledge test.
Cost $51.
Virginia
If non-U.S. citizens report their sources of income or those who rely on tax filing, they can get a license in Virginia. Two identification documents, two proofs of address, and a Social Security or Tax ID number are required. The first card is valid for two years, then the term increases.
Cost: $50.
Washington
Washington requires drivers to take a training course or, if they already have the knowledge, just pass a written test and a driving test. Proof of address, ID, CPF or CNPJ also required
Cost: $89.
Washington DC.
The U.S. Capital Department of Motor Vehicles requires the person to have a CPF or CNPJ, ID, proof of address, and demonstrate their driving skills to process their driver’s license.
Cost: $48
Documents that most states allow to prove residency are bank statements, rent receipts, insurance policies, receipts for housing services, government-issued letters, or letters from shelters. It is important that these documents have the applicant’s full name and address.
Leave a Reply