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Written by
Ashlyn Brooks
Ashlyn Brooks is a finance writer with more than half a decade of experience, known for her knowledge in areas such as taxes, insurance, investing, retirement, finance news, and banking products.
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Maggie Kempken is an insurance editor for Bankrate. She helps manage the creation of insurance content that meets the highest quality standards for accuracy and clarity to help Bankrate readers navigate complex information about home, auto and life insurance. She also focuses on ensuring that Bankrate’s insurance content represents and adheres to the Bankrate brand.
Bankrate logoAt Bankrate, we strive to help you make smarter financial decisions. To help readers understand how insurance affects their finances, we have licensed insurance professionals on staff who have spent a combined 47 years in the auto, home and life insurance industries. While we adhere to strict editorial integrity , this post may contain references to products from our partners. Here's an explanation of how we make money . Our content is backed by Coverage.com, LLC, a licensed entity (NPN: 19966249). For more information, please see our Insurance Disclosure .
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Bankrate.com is an independent, advertising-supported publisher and comparison service. We are compensated in exchange for placement of sponsored products and services, or by you clicking on certain links posted on our site. Therefore, this compensation may impact how, where and in what order products appear within listing categories, except where prohibited by law for our mortgage, home equity and other home lending products. Other factors, such as our own proprietary website rules and whether a product is offered in your area or at your self-selected credit score range, can also impact how and where products appear on this site. While we strive to provide a wide range of offers, Bankrate does not include information about every financial or credit product or service.
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In the U.S., the privilege of holding a driver’s license is often overlooked. However, for DACA and those who do not have documented citizenship, acquiring one is not straightforward, especially if they lack a Social Security number for essential credit checks. Since June 15, 2012, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) has offered protections to specific non-citizens who entered the United States as children. DACA not only provides work authorization but also extends the opportunity for eligible individuals to obtain a driver’s license. Understanding how to navigate this process could help those who are not documented but want to obtain a driver’s license.
Driving privileges for undocumented citizens, including those with DACA status, are determined at the state level by established legislation. While acquiring a driver’s license can be more challenging for undocumented immigrants, it is essential due to the benefits it brings. Not only does it allow you to drive legally, it also facilitates interactions with employers, banks, insurance providers and government agencies.
Though DACA offers federal protections, it doesn’t automatically grant driving privileges. However, some DACA recipients might receive a Social Security number (SSN), allowing them to apply for a regular driver’s license in most states. It’s essential to note that when awarded DACA status, not all recipients obtain a legal work authorization or Social Security number.
To achieve this, one must qualify through the Enumeration Beyond Entry (EBE) program, a collaborative effort between the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA). This program enables recipients to apply for both work authorization and an SSN simultaneously, either through a single application or in-person at a Social Security office.
Always check your state’s specific laws to understand the options available to you. We’ve provided links to resources by state to help you get started in your search.
| State | Effective Date | DMV page |
|---|---|---|
| California | Jan. 1, 2015 | https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-licenses-identification-cards/assembly-bill-ab-60-driver-licenses/ |
| Colorado | Aug. 1, 2014 | https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/dmv/co-rcsa-sb251-driver-licenses-and-ids |
| Connecticut | Jan. 1, 2015 | https://portal.ct.gov/DMV/Licenses/Licenses/Drive-Only-License-Program |
| Delaware | Dec. 27, 2015 | https://www.dmv.de.gov/DriverServices/drivers_license/DPC/index.shtml |
| District of Columbia | May 1, 2014 | https://dmv.dc.gov/service/limited-purpose-driver-license |
| Hawaii | Jan. 1, 2016 | https://hidot.hawaii.gov/driverslicense/#intro |
| Illinois | Nov. 28, 2013 | https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/drivers/TVDL/tvdl.html |
| Maryland | Jan. 1, 2014 | https://mva.maryland.gov/drivers/Pages/non-compliant-drivers-licenses.aspx |
| Massachusetts | July 1, 2023 | https://www.mass.gov/guides/work-and-family-mobility-act-wfma |
| Minnesota | Oct. 1, 2023 | https://www.ilcm.org/latest-news/frequently-asked-questions-drivers-licenses-for-all/ |
| New Jersey | June 1, 2020 | https://www.state.nj.us/mvc/drivertopics/noncitizens.htm |
| New Mexico | 2003 | https://www.mvd.newmexico.gov/nm-drivers-licenses-ids/ |
| New York (a) | June 17, 2019 | https://dmv.ny.gov/driver-license/driver-licenses-and-green-light-law |
| Nevada | Jan. 1, 2014 | https://dmvnv.com/dac.htm |
| Oregon | Aug. 9, 2019 | https://www.oregon.gov/odot/DMV/pages/driverid/licenseget.aspx |
| Rhode Island | July 1, 2023 | https://www.ri.gov/press/view/43899 |
| Utah | Mar. 8, 2005 | https://dld.utah.gov/license-permit-idcard-cdl/driving-privilege-card-dpc/ |
| Vermont | Jan. 1, 2014 | https://dmv.vermont.gov/licenses/types-of-licenses-ids/driver-privilege-card |
| Virginia | Jan. 1, 2021 | https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/drivers/#driver_privilege_card.asp |
| Washington | July 25, 1993 | https://www.dol.wa.gov/driverslicense/idproof.html |
Any license for undocumented citizens will not be valid for federal or REAL ID purposes, such as flying or voting, as of May 7, 2025. But some states have additional restrictions on driver’s licenses for those who cannot prove they are a U.S. citizen.
New Mexico and Washington are two states notable for their lack of license restrictions for undocumented citizens. Common requirements mandate that drivers prove residency, show proof of tax filing and provide supporting documentation, as applicable.
Some states have additional requirements. For example, Utah S 227 establishes that unauthorized immigrants may have a valid driving card for just one year. At the same time, Virginia law allows its drivers to retain privileges through their second birthday after issuance. Maryland’s restricted driver’s license prohibits recipients from purchasing a firearm.
In addition to driving privileges, your driver’s license can have other benefits, too.
Purchasing a new vehicle can be a significant financial undertaking, whether you’re opting for a brand-new model or a used one. An auto loan is often a valuable solution, but applicants must meet specific criteria to qualify.
For many transactions, including buying a car, lenders typically request an SSN to confirm your identity and conduct a credit evaluation. This can present a challenge for undocumented citizens who might not possess the necessary details. However, certain lenders or car companies might accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) as an alternative. An ITIN allows individuals to file taxes irrespective of their immigration status and might replace a Social Security number in various scenarios, depending on the institution’s policies.
Another scenario that could potentially pose some problems is that many DACA recipients, being relatively new to the credit system, might face challenges in securing loans due to limited credit history. Therefore, for better auto loan rates and financing opportunities, it could be helpful for both undocumented citizens and DACA recipients to focus on enhancing their credit scores, ensuring they present a solid credit standing when applying for loans. Always explore your options and consult with different companies, as requirements and offerings can differ.
Once you have found the vehicle you want, it is time to sign on the dotted line. If you do not have the funds to pay in total upfront, there are still several options to finance your new car with an auto loan.
Finding an affordable car is important for many, especially undocumented citizens who may have budget constraints or not have the adequate credit profile for a car loan. While searching for cost-effective vehicles, it’s crucial to stay informed and be wary of potential pitfalls in the buying process. Here are some general guidelines to help you find an economical car and ensure a smoother transaction:
Obtaining auto insurance can present challenges for undocumented immigrants. Typically, insurance companies prefer to provide policies to those with valid driver’s licenses and a traceable driving record. However, a person with DACA status and a valid license generally has an easier time securing coverage.
When purchasing car insurance, many providers ask for a Social Security number to verify identity and assess creditworthiness. If you lack an SSN, there are still some insurance companies willing to accommodate, though they might request an upfront deposit.
Regardless of your citizenship status, it’s vital to be aware of your state’s insurance requirements. Always ensure you meet or exceed the minimum coverage mandates. And even though it’s not required, it’s prudent to consider full coverage car insurance for more comprehensive protection.
Undocumented citizens face unique hurdles when trying to buy affordable car insurance. Traditional avenues for obtaining insurance can sometimes be less accessible due to the absence of a Social Security number or other documentation. Regardless, having valid car insurance is vital, both legally and for personal protection against potential mishaps. Fortunately, there are some strategies tailored to help undocumented individuals navigate this process.
If you are an undocumented citizen there are some tips you can use to potentially help lower the cost of car insurance premiums each month.
Navigating the path to car ownership for DACA recipients and undocumented citizens in the U.S. can be intricate, but it’s not impossible. The absence of a Social Security number might pose challenges, especially when seeking financing or insurance. However, obtaining a valid driver’s license is a critical step. A license isn’t just a ticket to drive—it’s a recognized form of identification, invaluable for many aspects of life.
While the journey might be riddled with obstacles, it’s essential to remember that resources and avenues exist to facilitate the process. By staying informed, leveraging available options and persisting through challenges, the goal of owning a car and experiencing the freedom it offers could become increasingly reachable.
