Getting a drivers’ license is a milestone that can open up new opportunities and the freedom to travel easily. But can you get a drivers’ license if you’re not a U.S. citizen? In this post, we will break down everything you need to know about getting a driver’s license as an immigrant to the U.S., including as an undocumented immigrant.
Can I get a drivers' license if I am a green card holder or legal resident?
Green card holders and other legal residents are eligible to get a drivers’ license. You do not have to be a U.S. citizen to get a drivers’ license. Although requirements vary, in most states, you will probably need to present the following documentation in order to get a drivers’ license: a passport or foreign birth certificate, proof of a social security number, registered mail with your current address (such as an energy bill) and your green card or residency documents. You will also need to take a behind-the-wheel driving test.
If you don’t know how to drive or need a refresher on driving skills, you can schedule a lesson with a driving school to prepare for your behind-the-wheel test. If you already know how to drive, we can help you get an appointment at a DMV near you for a test or arrange a car and driver to take you to your test.
Can I get a drivers' license if I am undocumented?
There are over 12 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S., many of whom need to drive for work or other essential needs. It is possible to get a drivers’ license if you are undocumented in some states. The following states allow undocumented immigrants to get drivers’ licenses: California, Oregon, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Utah, Vermont, and Washington.
If you live in a state that allows undocumented people to get licenses, you will need to present some documentation, including proof of residency in the state (such as registered mail to your current address) and a birth certificate or passport from your home country, to apply for a drivers’ license. You will also need to take a behind-the-wheel driving test to get your drivers’ license.
Each state has its own requirements, so you should look up what documents are required for undocumented drivers in your state. If you need a DMV appointment or a car and driver for your road test, we can help.
Can I get a REAL ID if I am a green card holder or legal resident?
REAL IDs are special identification cards with stricter security requirements that, starting in October of 2021, will be required to fly domestically in the U.S. Legal permanent residents and other documented immigrants are eligible for REAL IDS. Most states require two proofs of residency in the state (like energy bills or other registered mail to your current address), proof of your social security number, proof of identity, and proof of legal U.S. residency (like a green card) to issue REAL IDS. We can help you get a DMV appointment to get a REAL ID, or you may be able to apply online.
Can I get a REAL ID if I am undocumented?
Unfortunately, undocumented immigrants are not eligible to get REAL IDs. If you live in a state that issues drivers’ licenses to undocumented immigrants, you will be able to get a regular license, but you won’t be able to use it as an ID when you fly starting in October of 2021. You could use another valid form of ID, such as a foreign passport. You can learn more in this guide to flying domestically as an undocumented person.
Conclusion: Immigrants are eligible for drivers' licenses
Immigrants to the U.S. have the right to get a drivers’ license. If you are a legal permanent resident or other documented immigrant, you can get a license in any state, but even if you are undocumented, you can get a license in some states. Documented immigrants are also eligible for REAL IDS in addition to regular drivers’ licenses. We can help you get an appointment to get your drivers’ license, or arrange a car and driver to take you to your road test, with Skip Plus. Follow along with the Skip blog for more government services info and regulations.