Nevada driver license and state ID — guide for immigrants

Nevada issues a Driver Authorization Card (DAC) to residents who cannot meet the standard identity requirements, letting undocumented residents drive legally without a Social Security number (governed by NRS 483.291). One important limit: the non-driver state ID card still requires an SSN. Here is exactly who qualifies, the documents, what it costs, and your privacy protections.

Quick answer

  • Undocumented driver-license access: YES — Driver Authorization Card (DAC)
  • Social Security number required: No (for the DAC)
  • DAC fee: $22.50 (initial and renewal); $17 duplicate; +$25 testing if needed
  • Card validity: 4 years (expires on your birthday)
  • Card marking: “Not Valid for ID” — not a REAL ID, not for federal purposes
  • Non-driver state ID: NOT available without an SSN (DAC covers driving only)
  • Agency: Nevada DMV · Phone: Las Vegas (702) 486-4368 · Reno/Carson (775) 684-4368

Who can apply

The DAC is for residents who cannot meet the standard-license identity requirements, allowing them to drive legally. It is governed by NRS 483.291 and cannot be used to determine eligibility for any state benefits, licenses, or services.

Documents you need

Without lawful-status documents, you prove identity under “Option 3” by presenting TWO of:

  • A foreign passport (unexpired), a foreign birth certificate, or a consular identification card (matrícula), among the listed options.

You also present two Nevada residency documents (most dated within the previous 60 days) showing your name and Nevada residential address. Only originals are accepted, and any document with an expiration date must be unexpired.

Important: the non-driver ID still needs an SSN

All Nevada ID cards — REAL ID or Standard — require proof of a Social Security number. So a non-driver state ID is not available without an SSN. The DAC covers driving only. (When immigration documents are used to prove identity for a regular license or ID, the card is instead marked “Limited Term.”)

What the card can and cannot do

The DAC is marked “Not Valid for ID” and its blue banner reads “Driver Authorization Card” instead of “Driver License.” That means:

  • You can legally drive with it.
  • You cannot use it as identification or for federal purposes (boarding aircraft, entering federal facilities) or to obtain benefits/licenses. Carry your passport for ID.

Privacy: Nevada law prohibits the DMV from releasing immigration/legal-presence information to immigration enforcement (NRS 481.063).

How to apply

  1. Book an appointment — all Nevada DMV services are by appointment (booked per office online).
  2. Bring two Option 3 identity documents and two Nevada residency documents (originals).
  3. Pass the required tests (a $25 testing fee applies if tests are required).
  4. Pay the $22.50 fee. The DAC is valid 4 years; renew in person at a DMV office.

Last verified: 2026-06-28. Sources: Nevada DMV — Driver Authorization Card, Proof of Identity & Residency, and ID Cards.

General procedural information. DMV policies, fees, and document requirements change frequently — verify with the Nevada DMV before visiting. Not legal or immigration advice. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.