Quick Answer
Yes — Nevada issues a Driver Authorization Card (DAC) under SB 303 (2013) to residents who can't get a regular license. To get one:
- Bring 2 identity documents, such as a foreign passport and a consular ID, plus 2 proofs of your Nevada address.
- Pass the knowledge test (English or Spanish) and, if you've never held a U.S. license, the drive test ($25 testing fee).
- Pay $22.50 for a card valid for 4 years.
The card says "Not Valid for ID" and can't be used for federal purposes like boarding a plane.
Can You Get a Driver's License in Nevada Without an SSN?
Yes, but it's called a Driver Authorization Card, not a driver's license. Nevada created the DAC under SB 303, passed in 2013, and began issuing it in January 2014. It lets residents who can't prove lawful presence drive, register, and insure a vehicle in Nevada. Cards issued since July 1, 2017, last 4 years.
The card's banner reads "Driver Authorization Card" rather than "Driver License." Full rules are on the Nevada DMV Driver Authorization Card page.
Is a Nevada Driver Authorization Card a REAL ID?
No. The DAC states "Not Valid for ID" at the top, and Nevada law says it can't be used to get public benefits, licenses, or services, or for federal purposes like boarding a plane. Since May 7, 2025, TSA accepts only REAL ID or another federal document, so carry your passport when you fly.
- For air travel, carry your valid foreign passport or another TSA-accepted ID. See our guide to flying with an ITIN.
- Private businesses decide for themselves whether to accept a DAC as identification.
Which Documents Does the Nevada DMV Accept for a DAC?
Without U.S. status documents, Nevada asks for 2 identity documents from its third option list: a foreign passport, foreign birth certificate, consular ID card, another foreign government document, or a license or DAC from another state. You also need 2 documents showing your Nevada home address, and every document must be an original.
- 1Identity — 2 documents, such as a foreign passport, consular ID card, foreign birth certificate, or a license or DAC from another U.S. state. Documents with expiration dates must be unexpired.
- 2Nevada residency — 2 documents with your name and Nevada address, such as a lease, utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub dated within 60 days.
- 3Translations — a complete typed translation from a DMV-approved translator for any foreign document.
- 4Name changes — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, adoption record, or court order; Social Security cards aren't accepted for this.
The DMV doesn't accept photocopies or scans.
How Much Does a Nevada DAC Cost?
A Nevada Driver Authorization Card costs $22.50, plus a $25 testing fee if you need to take tests. Each retest costs $10, and renewing every 4 years costs $22.50. A first-time driver pays about $47.50 in total. The card expires on your birthday, and the DMV mails a reminder 30 days before.
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Driver Authorization Card | $22.50 |
| Testing fee (if tests are required) | $25 |
| Each retest | $10 |
| Renewal (every 4 years) | $22.50 |
Fees come from the Nevada DMV; confirm current amounts before your visit.
How Do I Apply for a Nevada DAC Step by Step?
Getting a Nevada DAC takes 4 steps: create a DriveNV account and gather your original documents, take the knowledge test online in English or Spanish, book a DMV appointment for the vision test and, if you've never been licensed in the U.S., the drive test, then pay $22.50. You must have 20/40 vision for full privileges.
- Step 1: Create a DriveNV account and gather 2 identity documents, 2 residency documents, and translations.
- Step 2: Take the knowledge test online in English or Spanish; results go to the DMV automatically.
- Step 3: At a DMV office, pass the vision test and, if you aren't currently licensed in the U.S., the drive test ($25 testing fee).
- Step 4: Surrender any out-of-state license and pay $22.50 for your 4-year DAC.
What Can You Do With a Nevada Driver Authorization Card?
A Nevada DAC lets you drive on Nevada's public roads and register and insure your vehicle in the state. It can't be used for commercial driving or as ID for public benefits. Nevada law also bars the DMV director from releasing immigration-related information about applicants, under NRS 481.063.
- Drive legally on Nevada public roads and buy auto insurance — see car insurance without an SSN
- Register a vehicle in Nevada
You cannot use it to:
- Board a domestic flight or use it for other federal purposes
- Get public benefits, licenses, or services that require ID
- Drive commercially or get a commercial license
Out of state, Wyoming treats any license or privilege card issued to an undocumented immigrant as invalid, Florida and Tennessee restrict some of them, and Georgia bars drivers without lawful status. See which states restrict these licenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the knowledge test in Spanish?
Yes. Nevada offers the knowledge test online in English or Spanish. Interpreters are allowed for written tests only, with approval, and never for the drive test.
Does the Nevada DMV share my information with immigration?
Nevada law (NRS 481.063) says the DMV director shall not release information related to an applicant's immigration status.
Do I need a Social Security number for a DAC?
No. The DAC is for residents who can't get a regular license. Without an SSN, you can still use MyDMV online services to get a duplicate DAC or change your address.
How do I renew my Nevada DAC?
Renew in person at a DMV office every 4 years for $22.50. The DMV mails a renewal notice 30 days before the card expires on your birthday.
Can I fly with a Nevada Driver Authorization Card?
No. The DAC isn't valid for federal purposes. Use your foreign passport or another TSA-accepted ID to fly.
Which Nearby States Also Issue Licenses Without an SSN?
Nevada is one of 19 states, plus Washington, D.C., that let residents drive without proof of lawful status. In the West, California, Oregon, Washington, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah do as well, while Arizona and Idaho do not. California issues a full AB 60 license, which, unlike Nevada's card, can be used as state ID.
Compare every state's law, documents, and limits in the full driver's license guide →