Driver's License in Minnesota Without an SSN (2026)

Can You Get a Driver's License in Minnesota Without an SSN?

Yes. Minnesota allows residents to obtain a driver's license (or driving permit) regardless of immigration status under SF 1 (2023). You do not need a Social Security Number or proof of legal U.S. presence to apply.

Minnesota passed SF 1 in 2023 — one of the newest states on this list. The law took effect in 2024. The Minnesota DVS (Driver and Vehicle Services) began processing applications for residents without legal status.

⚠️ License type

Standard driver's license — not valid as federal ID (REAL ID). This license is valid for driving but cannot be used to board domestic flights, enter federal buildings, or as a federal form of ID. For air travel you will need your passport.

Required Documents

Bring the following to your Minnesota DMV appointment:

1Proof of identity — valid foreign passport or foreign government-issued ID
2Proof of Minnesota residency — 2 documents: utility bill, bank statement, lease, or government mail

💡 Tip

Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If your documents are in a language other than English, bring a certified translation.

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Gather your foreign identity document and 2 proofs of MN residency
Step 2: Visit a Minnesota DVS office
Step 3: Complete the application
Step 4: Pass the written knowledge and vision tests
Step 5: Pass the road skills test
Step 6: License mailed to your address

What This License Allows

Once you have your Minnesota driver's license or driving permit, you can:

Drive legally anywhere in Minnesota
Get car insurance (insurers require a valid license)
Use it as a state-issued photo ID for non-federal purposes
Use it as proof of identity at banks and credit unions — this can help with opening an account

You cannot use this license to:

Board domestic flights (need a passport or REAL ID)
Enter federal buildings or military bases
Prove immigration status or work authorization

💡 Next step: build credit

A driver's license is accepted by many banks as a second form of ID alongside your ITIN — making it easier to open an account. See which banks accept ITIN →

Frequently Asked Questions

Can undocumented immigrants get a driver's license in Minnesota? +

Yes. Minnesota SF 1 (2023) allows undocumented immigrants to get a driver's license starting in 2024. You need a foreign passport or government-issued ID and two proofs of Minnesota residency. No SSN is required.

When did Minnesota start issuing driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants? +

Minnesota SF 1 was signed in 2023 and the DVS began accepting applications in early 2024.

Other States That Allow This

19 states and Washington D.C. currently allow undocumented immigrants to get a driver's license or driving permit. Browse by state:

CA CO CT DE HI IL MD MA MN NV NJ NM NY OR RI UT VT VA WA DC

For the complete list with each state's law and requirements, see the full driver's license guide →