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

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

Yes. Washington allows residents to obtain a driver's license (or driving permit) regardless of immigration status under HB 3186 (2009), expanded by SB 5407 (2019). You do not need a Social Security Number or proof of legal U.S. presence to apply.

Washington was one of the earlier states. The original 2009 law was expanded in 2019. Washington DOL (Department of Licensing) processes applications at offices throughout the state, with particular capacity in the Seattle and Yakima areas given large immigrant populations.

⚠️ 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 Washington DMV appointment:

1Proof of identity — valid foreign passport or foreign government-issued ID
2Proof of Washington 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 identity and residency documents
Step 2: Visit a Washington DOL office
Step 3: Complete the application
Step 4: Pass the 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 Washington driver's license or driving permit, you can:

Drive legally anywhere in Washington
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 Washington state? +

Yes. Washington state allows undocumented immigrants to get a driver's license under laws dating to 2009 and expanded in 2019. You need a foreign passport or government ID and two proofs of Washington residency. No SSN is required.

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 →