States That Give Driver’s Licenses to Undocumented Immigrants (2026 List)

5 min read

If you’re looking for a driver’s license without proof of lawful presence, this list covers 19 states and Washington, D.C., with Puerto Rico discussed separately. Each jurisdiction has its own requirements, license names, and privacy rules.

Knowing which states offer these licenses and what documents they require helps you understand your options before applying. If you live in Texas, talking with our immigration lawyers in Austin can help you assess your immigration situation alongside the state’s licensing requirements.

Updated list of states that give driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants in 2026

The following 19 states and Washington, D.C., have licensing options for otherwise eligible residents without proof of lawful presence. Identity, residence, tax documents, and Social Security number requirements vary by jurisdiction. Each state name links to its official licensing information or governing law:

• California (AB 60 license)
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Hawaii
• Illinois
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Minnesota
• Nevada
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• New York (Green Light Law)
• Oregon
• Rhode Island
• Utah (Driving Privilege Card)
• Vermont (Driver Privilege Card)
• Virginia
• Washington
• Washington, D.C. (Limited Purpose License)

Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory, also offers a three-year provisional driver’s license to eligible foreign residents who have lived there for more than one year. The law also requires that applicants have neither a Social Security card nor documentation showing they are ineligible for, or not subject to assignment of, a Social Security number, and have neither documentation showing U.S. citizenship nor USCIS documentation authorizing their presence. Identity, provisional learner-license, and other statutory requirements still apply.

State laws in this area change, so confirm the current rules with the state’s DMV before you apply.

Texas is not on this list. Texas DPS requires proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence and verifies lawful presence with DHS before issuing a license. Applicants must also meet the other licensing requirements. If you consider applying elsewhere, check that jurisdiction’s residency rules; visiting another state does not by itself establish eligibility.

Documents you’ll need for a state license

Each state has its own document list. If you’re also considering immigration options, an adjustment of status attorney can assess whether that process fits your circumstances. Check the issuing agency’s requirements for:

• Proof of identity: documents accepted by that state, which may include a passport or consular ID.
• Proof of residence: documents accepted by that state, such as a lease, utility bill, or bank statement.
• Social Security or tax documentation: an SSN if assigned, an ITIN, or an eligible affidavit, depending on the state. An ITIN is not universally required or accepted in place of every other document.
• Testing and fees: the tests, training, and fees that apply to your age, driving experience, and application.

Check which foreign documents the state accepts and whether an English translation is required. For example, New Jersey requires a certified English translation for documents not written in English. Review the issuing agency’s instructions before your appointment.

The difference between a license for undocumented immigrants and a REAL ID

A REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets federal security standards under the REAL ID Act of 2005. REAL ID issuance requires satisfactory evidence of lawful status. A state licensing option that does not require that evidence does not itself establish eligibility for a REAL ID.

Non-REAL ID credentials carry markings such as “Not for Federal Purposes,” “Federal Limits Apply,” or “Limited Purpose.” The wording and design vary. A non-REAL ID marking does not by itself identify the holder’s immigration status: standard New York licenses look the same regardless of the documents used to apply.

These credentials authorize driving subject to the issuing state’s rules, but a non-REAL ID license is not accepted as identification at a TSA checkpoint. TSA accepts alternative identification, including a foreign government-issued passport. For a federal facility, check its specific entry and identification requirements.

Data privacy and immigration authorities

A common concern is how much information ICE gets when someone applies for a license in a state that offers them. The answer depends on the state and the data protection laws it has passed.

For example, New York limits disclosure to immigration enforcement agencies under its Green Light framework. Those limits have exceptions, including a lawful court order or an Article III judicial warrant, and specific provisions for REAL ID, trusted traveler programs, and vehicle imports or exports.

Check the current privacy rules in the state where you plan to apply.

Do not assume that DMV information is confidential in every circumstance. The applicable law, the type of record, and the requesting agency matter. New York’s restrictions have defined exceptions; they do not establish immunity from immigration enforcement.

Is a state license valid for driving in other states?

Recognition of an out-of-state license depends on the destination state and the type of credential. Connecticut, for example, advises checking with the other state before driving there. Do not assume that every state recognizes every license in this list.

Under Florida’s current law, covered out-of-state license classes include those issued exclusively to unauthorized or undocumented immigrants who cannot prove lawful presence, or licenses substantially the same as those issued to citizens, residents, or people lawfully present but marked to show that the holder did not provide proof of lawful presence. These covered licenses are invalid in Florida. A driver stopped while using a covered invalid license and without a valid license must receive a citation. Check Florida’s published list of invalid classes before driving there; carrying a passport does not change whether a license authorizes driving.

Steps for a safe, organized application

Details vary by state, but the typical path looks like this:

1. Confirm the specific requirements on the state DMV’s official website.
2. Gather your proof of identity, residence, and ITIN if required.
3. Study the state’s official driver manual and check which languages it offers.
4. Follow the state’s instructions for any required training, permit, and written or driving tests.
5. Pay the applicable fees and follow the state’s instructions for any temporary credential and delivery of the license after approval.

When moving or applying in a new state, also consider how the move could affect your immigration case. If you’re planning to apply for a green card or already have a case pending, talk to an attorney so your move lines up with your file.

Texas courts handle driving-without-a-license charges, and fines or court costs may apply. If you need guidance about how your situation relates to immigration, schedule a consultation with our legal team before making rushed decisions.

Frequently asked questions about driver’s licenses for immigrants