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Driver's licenses by state — which states issue licenses regardless of immigration status

State-by-state guide to driver's licenses for immigrants. 19 states plus Washington, D.C. issue a driver's license or driving privilege card regardless of immigration status. What documents you need, REAL ID vs standard licenses, and privacy.

Driver’s licenses by US state — guide for immigrants

Driving is essential in most of the US, and whether you can get a license depends entirely on the state you live in. As of now, 19 states plus Washington, D.C. issue a standard driver’s license or a “driving privilege” card regardless of immigration status, while 31 states still require proof of lawful presence. This guide lists both groups and explains what to expect.

At a glance

States that issue regardless of status19 states + Washington, D.C. (list below)
What they issueA standard (non-REAL-ID) license or “driving privilege” card
Typical documentsForeign passport or consular ID, proof of state residency, often an ITIN
Still requiredWritten test, road test, vision test, and standard fees
Can it be used to fly?No — a standard license is not a REAL ID; use a passport for domestic flights

Find your state’s exact rules, accepted documents, and fees on its page — start from the lists below.

States that issue a license regardless of immigration status

States that currently require proof of lawful presence

Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.

State laws change — check your state’s page for the current rule before applying.

Last verified: 2026-06-03.

General procedural information for educational purposes. Not legal advice. State driver’s-license laws change — verify with your state DMV or a local immigrant-rights organization before applying.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a driver's license without legal immigration status?
In 19 states plus Washington, D.C., yes — these states issue a standard driver’s license or a ‘driving privilege’ card regardless of immigration status. The other 31 states currently require proof of lawful presence. See the lists below and your state’s page for the exact rules and documents.
What documents do I need to apply?
It varies by state, but ’license law’ states typically accept a foreign passport or consular ID (matrícula) for identity, proof of state residency (lease, utility bills), and often a tax document such as an ITIN filing. You’ll still pass the written and road tests and pay the normal fees. Check your state’s page for its exact accepted-document list.
What's the difference between a REAL ID and a standard license?
A REAL ID (marked with a star) requires proof of lawful status and a Social Security number; you can use it to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings. The licenses available regardless of immigration status are standard, non-REAL-ID licenses — fully valid to drive, but not accepted as federal identification.
Can I use this license to fly within the US?
A standard, non-REAL-ID license cannot be used to board domestic flights now that REAL ID enforcement is in effect. To fly domestically you would use another accepted ID, such as a valid passport. The standard license is still valid for driving, opening accounts, and everyday identification.
Will applying share my information with immigration authorities?
Data practices vary by state, but many states that issue licenses regardless of status have privacy protections that limit sharing DMV data with immigration enforcement. Review your state’s page and its privacy rules; if you have concerns, consult a local immigrant-rights organization.

Identification and rights

General information, not legal advice. MigrantUSA is an independent publisher and is not a law firm; using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship, and this content is not a substitute for advice from a licensed attorney about your specific situation. US federal, state, and local government procedures, fees, and forms change. Always verify current details directly with the relevant agency before acting. For immigration, tax, or other legal matters specific to your situation, consult a licensed attorney or BIA-accredited representative.