The Short Answer
As of 2026, 19 states plus Washington D.C. allow undocumented immigrants to obtain a standard driver's license. These licenses allow you to drive legally within that state. They are not REAL ID-compliant and cannot be used to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities — but they are fully valid for driving.
These licenses are sometimes called "AB 60 licenses" (California's law name), "driving privilege cards," or "standard driver's licenses" depending on the state. The key point: they are legal driver's licenses accepted by police and insurance companies.
Always Verify With Your State DMV
Requirements and document acceptance change. Before going to the DMV, call your local office or check the state DMV website to confirm current requirements. Some DMV offices are more familiar with the process than others — calling ahead saves time.
Full State List (2026)
| State | Law / Program Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| California | AB 60 | Available since 2015. One of the largest programs — over 1 million licenses issued. ITIN accepted. |
| Colorado | SB 251 | Available since 2013. Called a "Colorado ID." Requires proof of Colorado residency and identity. |
| Connecticut | HB 6495 | Available since 2013. Called a "Drive Only" license. ITIN accepted for identity. |
| Delaware | HB 225 | Available since 2015. Requires Delaware address and identity documents. |
| Hawaii | HB 1907 | Available since 2016. Standard driver's license available without SSN. |
| Illinois | TVDL (Temporary Visitor Driver's License) | Available since 2013. Called TVDL. ITIN or foreign passport accepted. |
| Maine | LD 1012 | Available since 2019. Standard license accessible with ITIN and Maine residency proof. |
| Maryland | HB 209 | Available since 2013. Maryland residents can apply at any MVA location. |
| Massachusetts | Work & Family Mobility Act (H.4805) | Available since 2023. ITIN, foreign passport, or consular ID accepted. |
| Minnesota | HF 4 | Available since 2023. Called "Standard Driver's License." No SSN required. |
| Nevada | AB 176 | Available since 2013. Called "Authorization Card" or standard license depending on circumstance. |
| New Jersey | A3686 | Available since 2021. Called "Non-REAL ID" license. ITIN accepted. |
| New Mexico | New Mexico statute (1st state) | Available since 2003 — the first state to allow this. No SSN required since then. |
| New York | Green Light Law (S1747A) | Available since 2019. Standard license without SSN at any DMV office. |
| Oregon | SB 833 | Available since 2014. Oregon ID card option available. ITIN accepted. |
| Rhode Island | H5217 | Available since 2023. Called "Driving Privilege Card." |
| Utah | HB 396 | Available since 2005. Called "Driving Privilege Card." ITIN required. |
| Vermont | HB 502 | Available since 2014. Standard driver's license. No SSN required. |
| Virginia | HB 1211 | Available since 2020. Called "Driving Privilege Card." |
| Washington D.C. | B20-0577 | Available since 2014. Standard DC driver's license without immigration status requirement. |
What Documents to Bring
Documents vary by state, but most states in this list require a similar combination. Before your DMV visit, confirm the current list on your state's DMV website. Generally, you will need:
- Proof of identity: Foreign passport, consular ID (matrícula consular), or government-issued photo ID from your home country
- Proof of state residency: Two documents showing your name and in-state address — utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or mail from a government agency
- ITIN or foreign tax ID: Many states accept an ITIN as proof of identity and tax compliance. Some also accept foreign ITINs or national tax IDs.
Call Ahead
Not all DMV staff are equally familiar with the undocumented applicant process. Call your local DMV branch before visiting and tell them you want to apply under the state's immigrant driver's license program. Ask which documents are required and whether an appointment is needed.
REAL ID vs. Standard License
These immigrant driver's licenses are not REAL ID-compliant. REAL ID licenses require proof of lawful presence. What an immigrant standard license can do:
- Drive legally within the state
- Serve as an accepted photo ID at most businesses and banks
- Be used for vehicle registration and insurance
- Satisfy driving requirements if stopped by police
What an immigrant standard license cannot do:
- Board domestic flights as the sole ID (a passport is required)
- Enter federal buildings requiring REAL ID
- Be used as a federal identity document