How to Get a Driver’s License in Illinois as an Undocumented Immigrant

Can I Get a Driver’s License in Illinois Without a Social Security Number?

No, you cannot get a driver’s license in Illinois without a Social Security number. The Social Security number is required to prove both identity and legal presence in the United States. Applicants must present a valid Social Security card or another acceptable form of documentation as a proof of their Social Security number.

How to Apply for a Driver’s License in Illinois Without a Social Security Number?

Illinois law requires applicants for a driver’s license to provide a valid Social Security Number in order to apply. However, if you are an individual who does not have a valid Social Security Number, you may be able to apply and obtain a driver’s license through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).

Individuals who are not eligible for a Social Security Number, but who meet all other requirements, may be eligible to obtain an alternative form of identification, such as a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), issued by the Internal Revenue Service. In order to obtain a TIN, applicants must submit an online application and provide certain documents to the IRS. Once the TIN is obtained, applicants can use it to apply for a driver’s license at their local Secretary of State office.

Applicants must also present two forms of identification that are acceptable proof of legal presence in the United States. This can include a valid passport, Permanent Resident Card, or Employment Authorization Document. Other documents that may be accepted include birth certificates, foreign photo ID cards, or consular documents. All documents must be originals or certified copies. For more information, please contact your local Secretary of State office.

Does Illinois Have a State ID for Undocumented Immigrants?

No, Illinois does not have a state ID specifically for undocumented immigrants. However, undocumented immigrants may be eligible to receive a Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL). This license is available to those who can prove their identity and Illinois residency, but are unable to provide a valid Social Security number.

Does a Driver’s License in Illinois Look Different for Undocumented Immigrants?

Yes, a driver’s license in Illinois looks different for undocumented immigrants. The licenses will be marked as “Temporary Visitor Driver’s License.” These licenses will have the same privileges as a standard Illinois license, but will not allow the holder to legally work in the United States.

What are the Required Documents to Get a Driver’s License in Illinois?

To get a driver’s license in Illinois, applicants must submit the following documents:

• Proof of identity, such as a birth certificate or passport
• Proof of Social Security number and Illinois residency
• Proof of full name and date of birth
• A completed application for a driver’s license (Form DSD X 153)
• A completed authorization for release of motor vehicle records (Form DSD X 156)
• Payment for the appropriate fees
• A valid vision test report, if required
• A valid medical examiner’s certificate, if required

What Documents do Undocumented Immigrants Need to Get a Driver’s License in Illinois?

Under Illinois law, undocumented immigrants are eligible to apply for a Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL). In order to apply for a TVDL, undocumented immigrants must provide the following documents:

1. Proof of identity: valid passport, consulate identification card, foreign driver’s license, national identification card, birth certificate, or any other documents from the list of approved documents from the Illinois Secretary of State.

2. Proof of Illinois residency: lease agreement, utility bill, medical bill, or any other document from the list of approved documents from the Illinois Secretary of State.

3. Proof of medical insurance: valid medical insurance policy or a letter from a physician indicating lack of medical insurance coverage.

4. Declaration of Liability and Financial Responsibility: form must be completed and notarized.

5. Proper fees: There is a $30 fee for the TVDL and any other applicable fees associated with the application process.

What is the Difference Between a Real ID and a Standard Driver’s License, and Can Undocumented Immigrants Get a Real ID in Illinois?

A Real ID is a federal identification card that is compliant with the Real ID Act of 2005, which was passed by the United States Congress in response to the 9/11 attacks. A Real ID card is used to verify an individual’s identity when applying for certain services, such as boarding a domestic flight or accessing federal facilities. To get a Real ID, applicants must provide more documentation than is required for a standard driver’s license.

A standard driver’s license is issued by a state’s Department of Motor Vehicles and is used to prove an individual’s identity and driving eligibility. This type of license does not comply with the federal Real ID standards.

Unfortunately, undocumented immigrants are not eligible to obtain a Real ID in Illinois, as they must provide proof of legal presence in the United States in order to apply.

Can I Get Car Insurance if I Am an Undocumented Immigrant with a Driver’s License in Illinois?

In most cases, no. Insurance companies in the state of Illinois will typically require proof of valid residency in order to be eligible for coverage. Since undocumented immigrants are not authorized to reside in the United States, insurance companies are unlikely to provide them with coverage.

What are the Risks of Getting a Driver’s License as an Undocumented Immigrant in Illinois?

1. Legal Action: If you are an undocumented immigrant and obtain a valid driver’s license in Illinois, you risk facing criminal charges as it is illegal for undocumented immigrants to obtain Illinois driver’s licenses.

2. Loss of Driving Privileges: If you are caught driving with a driver’s license obtained illegally, your driving privileges in the state of Illinois may be revoked and you may be required to pay fines.

3. Immigration Consequences: If you are an undocumented immigrant and obtain a valid driver’s license in Illinois, you risk facing deportation or other immigration consequences depending on the circumstances of your case.

4. Loss of Money and Time: If you are an undocumented immigrant and obtain a valid driver’s license in Illinois, you risk losing both money and time as the process is often lengthy and costly.

Can I Renew My Driver’s License as an Undocumented Immigrant in Illinois?

No, you cannot renew your driver’s license as an undocumented immigrant in Illinois. You must provide proof of legal presence or lawful permanent residence in order to be eligible for a driver’s license or permit in the state of Illinois.

What are the Consequences of Driving without a License as an Undocumented Immigrant in Illinois?

In Illinois, driving without a valid driver’s license is illegal and carries criminal penalties. If an undocumented immigrant is caught driving without a license, they could face criminal charges including fines, jail time, and even deportation. Additionally, the individual’s vehicle may be impounded and they could lose their right to obtain a driver’s license in the future.

What are the Steps to Apply for a Driver’s License in Illinois?

1. Prepare the required documents. In order to apply for an Illinois driver’s license, you must gather the proper documents that prove your legal presence, identity, Social Security number and residency in Illinois. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, birth certificate, visa or immigration documents, among others.

2. Pass the written exam. Before you can obtain an Illinois driver’s license, you must take and pass the written exam at a local Driver Services Facility. The exam tests your knowledge of Illinois driving laws and regulations as well as road signs and rules of the road.

3. Pass the vision test. You must also pass a vision test when applying for a driver’s license in Illinois. If you are unable to pass the vision test without corrective lenses, you must wear them while driving.

4. Schedule an appointment for a road test. After passing the written exam and vision test, you must schedule an appointment to take the road test at a Driver Services Facility. During the test, an examiner will observe you as you drive to make sure you can safely operate a vehicle according to Illinois laws and regulations.

5. Submit payment for fees and license production. Once you pass the road test, you must submit payment for fees associated with a new driver’s license as well as for its production.

6. Receive your new license. After paying all applicable fees, you will receive your new driver’s license from the Driver Services Facility or through the mail if applicable.

Are There Special Instructions to Apply for a Driver’s License in Illinois for Undocumented Immigrants?

No. As of 2019, undocumented immigrants are not eligible to apply for or receive a driver’s license or state ID in Illinois.

What if I Have a Prior Deportation, Criminal History, or a History of Use of Fraudulent Documents?

If you have a prior deportation, criminal history, or history of use of fraudulent documents, you may still be eligible to apply for asylum, but it will likely affect your eligibility. Asylum grants are discretionary and the immigration court will take into account all relevant information before making a decision. A criminal history or prior deportation can make it more difficult to prove that you have a well-founded fear of persecution in your home country. In addition, the use of fraudulent documents can also raise doubts about your credibility and your claim. You should consult with an experienced immigration attorney to determine your eligibility for asylum and learn about the risks and benefits of filing an asylum application.

What is the Fee to Apply for a Driver’s License in Illinois?

The fee to apply for a driver’s license in Illinois is $30.

What is the Processing Time to Get a Driver’s License in Illinois?

The processing time for a driver’s license in Illinois varies depending on the type of license and the individual’s situation. Generally, the time frame for receiving a driver’s license is between one to two months.

What to Do in Case of a Denial for a Driver’s License in Illinois for Undocumented Immigrants?

Unfortunately, undocumented immigrants cannot receive a valid driver’s license in Illinois. Currently, Illinois does not offer a special form of license or identification card to undocumented immigrants. However, there are other options available to undocumented immigrants in the state.

The first option is to apply for a Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL). The TVDL is a form of temporary identification and allows eligible applicants to legally operate a motor vehicle in Illinois. To be eligible, applicants must have proof of identity, proof of residence in Illinois, and proof of authorized stay in the United States.

In addition, individuals may also consider applying for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). An EAD is granted to those who can prove their eligibility for work authorization in the United States. If an EAD is granted, it can be used as proof of identity when attempting to get a driver’s license or identification card in states that allow it.

Regardless of the option chosen, it is important to understand that there are still risks involved when driving without a valid driver’s license. If an individual is stopped by law enforcement and found driving without a valid driver’s license, they may be subject to fines and/or criminal prosecution.

What are the Frequently Asked Questions and Answers to Get a Driver’s License in Illinois as an Undocumented Immigrant?

Q: Can an undocumented immigrant get a driver’s license in Illinois?

A: Yes. In 2013, the Illinois Legislature passed Senate Bill 957, allowing undocumented immigrants to apply for a Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL). A TVDL allows an immigrant to legally drive and is valid for three years.

Q: What documents do I need to apply for a driver’s license in Illinois?

A: To apply for a TVDL, you must provide identification and proof of residency in Illinois. This includes two proofs of residency documents such as a lease agreement, utility bill, or bank statement. You also need to show either an unexpired foreign passport, matricula consular card, or other form of proof of identity. Additionally, you must provide proof of liability insurance for the vehicle you will be driving.

Q: How do I apply for a driver’s license in Illinois?

A: You can apply by visiting your local Secretary of State facility and filing an application form. You will need to take a vision test and pay the required fees. Once you are approved, you will be issued a Temporary Visitor Driver’s License that is valid for three years.

Q: Are there any restrictions on how I can use the driver’s license?

A: Yes, a TVDL is only valid for driving purposes and cannot be used for identification or other purposes. Additionally, it cannot be used for federal or state benefits and does not establish legal status in the United States.