New Jersey driver license and state ID — guide for immigrants

New Jersey issues a Standard driver license to residents who cannot prove lawful immigration status. Since May 2021, you can apply with a Social Security number, an ITIN, or an affidavit if you are not eligible for an SSN. Here is exactly who qualifies, what documents reach the required “6 Points of ID,” what it costs, and what the card can and cannot do.

Quick answer

  • Undocumented driver-license access: YES — Standard license (since May 2021)
  • Social Security number required: No — SSN, ITIN, or affidavit is accepted
  • Driver license fee: $24 (basic auto, initial/renewal, 4 years)
  • Non-driver ID card: $24
  • Card marking: Standard license is “Not for REAL ID Purposes”
  • Agency: New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC)
  • Website: nj.gov/mvc · Phone: (609) 292-6500

Who can apply

New Jersey requires every applicant for a REAL ID or Standard license/ID to provide three things: 6 Points of ID (proof of age and identity), proof of a New Jersey residential address, and a Social Security number, ITIN, or affidavit. Residents who cannot prove lawful immigration status apply for the Standard credential.

The SSN, ITIN, or affidavit rule

The MVC accepts any one of:

  • A Social Security number (since June 15, 2022 the number can be verified electronically — you no longer need to show the card itself), or
  • An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), or
  • A signed affidavit for applicants who are not eligible for an SSN and do not have an ITIN. The affidavit must be notarized or signed in front of an MVC employee.

Documents you need (6 Points of ID)

You combine primary and secondary identity documents to total 6 points — for example a valid foreign passport plus secondary documents. You also bring proof of your New Jersey address (a Standard license requires one proof of residency; a REAL ID requires two). Any document not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation.

What the Standard license can and cannot do

The Standard New Jersey license is marked “Not for REAL ID Purposes.” That means:

  • You can legally drive and use the license as state identification.
  • You cannot use it to board a domestic flight or enter certain federal facilities. Carry your passport for those.

How to apply

  1. Gather your 6 Points of ID and proof of your New Jersey address.
  2. Bring your SSN, ITIN, or a completed affidavit of SSN ineligibility.
  3. Schedule an appointment at a Licensing Center.
  4. Pass the 6 Points of ID verification, knowledge test, and (for a first license) the road test.
  5. Pay the $24 fee. Your card is mailed to you.

Last verified: 2026-06-28. Sources: NJ MVC — 6 Points of ID, Non-driver Identification Card, and License and Permit Fees.

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