Undocumented immigrants cannot get a Real ID
A Real ID is a federal identification standard that requires proof of lawful status in the United States. Because undocumented immigrants do not have that legal status, they cannot meet the core requirement for a Real ID, no matter which state they live in or what other documents they possess.
This is a federal rule set by the Department of Homeland Security, not a state choice. Every state's DMV applies the same standard: you must show proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident status (a green card) to get a Real ID-compliant driver's license or ID card.
If you are undocumented, you may still be able to get a standard (non-Real ID) driver's license in some states, but that is a separate process with different rules. Understanding what you can and cannot do depends on where you live.
Key Takeaways
- Real ID requires proof of lawful immigration status, which undocumented immigrants do not have, so this option is not available regardless of state.
- Some states issue standard driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants without requiring proof of legal status, but these do not meet Real ID standards.
- A standard driver's license from a state that allows it can be used for driving and some everyday purposes, but not for federal buildings or domestic flights after the Real ID important date.
- The Real ID important date has been extended multiple times; check your state DMV website for the current enforcement date.
- If you are undocumented, your state DMV can tell you in one call whether a standard license is available and what documents you need to bring.
Which states allow standard driver's licenses for undocumented immigrants
As of now, roughly 20 states and Washington, D.C. issue standard driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants without requiring proof of legal status. These states include California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, Washington, and Washington, D.C. The list changes occasionally as states pass new laws, so check your state DMV website to confirm current policy.
In these states, you typically need to show proof of identity (a passport from your home country works), proof of your state address (a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some states also require proof that you have been in the state for a certain length of time.
The process and required documents vary by state. For example, California requires an ITIN or Social Security number and proof of California residency, while New York accepts a foreign passport plus proof of state residence. Contact your state DMV directly or visit their website to learn the exact documents you need.
What you cannot do with a standard driver's license after the Real ID important date
Once the Real ID important date takes full effect, a standard driver's license will not be accepted for certain federal purposes. You will not be able to use it to board a domestic airplane, enter a federal building that requires ID, or access certain military bases.
For everyday activities—driving, opening a bank account, buying alcohol—a standard license continues to work. The restrictions explore only to federal facilities and domestic air travel. If you need to fly domestically, you can use a passport from your home country instead of a Real ID.
The Real ID important date has been postponed several times. As of now, enforcement is scheduled for a specific date, but Congress has extended it before. Check the Department of Homeland Security website or your state DMV for the most current important date.
How to get a standard driver's license in a state that allows it
Start by visiting your state DMV website and searching for "undocumented immigrant driver's license" or "AB 60" (the California law that started this trend). The website will list the exact documents you need and whether your state has this program.
Gather your documents before you go. You will typically need a passport or national ID from your home country, proof of your state address (a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and either a Social Security number or ITIN. Some states also ask for proof of state residency for a certain number of months.
Visit your local DMV office in person. Many states do not allow online or mail applications for this type of license. Bring all original documents or certified copies—photocopies alone usually will not work. The fee varies by state but is typically $20 to $50 for a standard license.
Getting an ITIN if you do not have a Social Security number
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a nine-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service to people who need to file taxes but do not have a Social Security number. Many undocumented immigrants use an ITIN for tax purposes and to meet state driver's license requirements.
To get an ITIN, you file Form W-7 with the IRS. You can do this by mail or through an IRS-authorized acceptance agent. You will need to provide proof of identity and proof of your U.S. address. The process takes several weeks to a few months.
If you are filing taxes, you may already have an ITIN. Check any tax documents from previous years. If you do not have one and need one for a driver's license, contact a local tax preparation service or community organization that helps immigrants—many offer free or low-cost ITIN information.
What happens if your state does not allow standard licenses for undocumented immigrants
If you live in a state that does not issue driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants, you have limited options for federal ID. You cannot get a Real ID, and you cannot get a state driver's license at all.
For domestic air travel, you can use a passport from your home country. For driving, you would be driving without a license, which carries legal risks including fines, vehicle impoundment, and potential immigration consequences depending on your situation. Some community organizations and legal aid groups in restrictive states offer guidance on these risks.
If you are considering moving to a state with a standard license program, that is a decision only you can make. Some people do relocate specifically to access driver's licenses. Research the cost of living, job market, and other factors in states where the license is available.
Real ID versus passport for travel and federal buildings
A passport from your home country meets federal requirements for domestic air travel and federal building access. You do not need a Real ID to fly domestically or enter a federal courthouse or office building—a valid passport works just as well.
The advantage of a Real ID is that it is a state-issued card you can use for everyday purposes like driving and banking. A passport is primarily a travel document. If you do not plan to fly domestically or enter federal buildings often, a standard driver's license (if your state offers it) may be sufficient for your needs.
If you travel internationally, you will need a passport anyway. If you only drive locally and do not need federal building access, a standard state license covers most situations. Think about your actual travel and identification needs before deciding which documents to pursue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Real ID if I have a green card?
Yes. A green card is proof of lawful permanent resident status, which is one of the documents that satisfies the Real ID requirement. You can bring your green card to your state DMV along with proof of your address and Social Security number to get a Real ID-compliant driver's license or ID card.
What if I have a work permit or DACA?
Work permits and DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) do not count as proof of lawful status for Real ID purposes. However, some states may allow you to get a standard driver's license with a work permit or DACA documentation. Contact your state DMV to ask what documents they accept for a standard (non-Real ID) license.
Can I use a standard driver's license to cross the border into Canada or Mexico?
No. To cross an international border, you need a passport, passport card, or other federal travel document. A standard driver's license does not work for international travel, even to nearby countries. You will need a passport from your home country.
What if I lose my standard driver's license—can I get a replacement?
Yes, the replacement process is the same as the original. You go to your state DMV, bring the same documents you brought the first time, and pay a replacement fee (usually $10 to $30). Some states allow you to renew or replace online or by mail if you have done it before.
Do I need to renew a standard driver's license the same way I got it?
Renewal rules vary by state. Some states allow online or mail renewal; others require you to come in person. Check your state DMV website for renewal instructions. You will typically need to bring the same types of documents (proof of address, identity, ITIN or Social Security number) that you brought for the original license.