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

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

No, you cannot get a driver’s license in New Jersey without a Social Security number. A Social Security number is required when applying for a New Jersey driver’s license.

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

If you are an immigrant living in New Jersey, you may be eligible to apply for a driver’s license without a Social Security Number. To do so, you must first provide proof of identity and residency in the state. Acceptable forms of identification include a valid, unexpired passport or a birth certificate. Documentation proving your residency could be a utility bill, lease agreement, or school transcript.

Once you have all of the required documents, you can take them to your local Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) office and fill out the driver’s license application. Be sure to indicate that you do not have a Social Security Number and provide any other required information. The MVC will then review your application and documents and issue you a temporary driver’s license that is valid for up to one year. After one year, you will have to reapply for a new license if you wish to keep driving in New Jersey.

Does New Jersey Have a State ID for Undocumented Immigrants?

No, New Jersey does not have a state ID for undocumented immigrants.

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

No, a driver’s license in New Jersey looks the same for documented and undocumented immigrants. The only difference is that undocumented immigrants must use a federal Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to prove their identity and they must provide a foreign birth certificate, passport, or consular identification card as proof of their age.

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

In order to obtain a driver’s license in the state of New Jersey, the following documents are generally required:

1. Proof of identity, age and residency such as a valid passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card.

2. A Social Security Card or proof of your Social Security Number.

3. Proof of your name change, if applicable (marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order).

4. Two proofs of New Jersey residency (utility bill, bank statement, credit card statement).

5. A Vision Test and Knowledge Test certificate from a Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) approved Third Party Tester.

6. Appropriate fee for the license type and any additional endorsements or restrictions.

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

In order to get a driver’s license in New Jersey, undocumented immigrants must provide at least two documents that prove their identity and age. Acceptable documents include: a foreign passport with an approved form I-94, a foreign passport with a current U.S. visa and a valid I-20, or a Consular Identification Card. Additionally, two proofs of New Jersey residency are required, such as utility bills, bank statements, and pay stubs.

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

A Real ID is a form of government-issued identification that complies with the REAL ID Act of 2005, a federal law that affects how states issue driver’s licenses and identification cards. A Real ID contains a person’s full legal name, date of birth, signature, gender, and a front-facing photograph. It also features additional security features to help prevent fraud. A standard driver’s license only requires basic personal information such as name, signature and date of birth.

Unfortunately, undocumented immigrants in New Jersey are not eligible to obtain a Real ID. The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission requires applicants to have a valid Social Security number in order to apply for a Real ID.

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

Unfortunately, no. In order to obtain car insurance in New Jersey, you must have a valid Social Security Number (SSN) or a valid Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Without one of these, you will not be able to purchase insurance in the state.

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

1. Possible deportation: If an undocumented immigrant is caught driving with a license that was illegally obtained due to his or her immigration status, it could result in deportation.

2. Possible jail time: Driving with an illegally obtained license is a misdemeanor and could result in jail time and/or fines.

3. Insurance issues: Most insurance companies will not provide insurance to drivers who do not have valid documentation. Even if the driver is able to obtain insurance, the driver may struggle to find an affordable rate due to the lack of documentation.

4. Legal troubles: Driving with an illegally obtained license can lead to legal trouble and a criminal record, which can make it difficult for an undocumented immigrant to get a job, rent an apartment, or travel in the future.

5. Long-term consequences: An undocumented immigrant who is caught driving with a license that was illegally obtained may face long-term consequences of not being able to renew his or her driver’s license or receive other benefits for which he or she would otherwise be eligible, such as scholarships or government aid programs.

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

No, it is not possible for an undocumented immigrant to renew their driver’s license in New Jersey. According to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC), only U.S. citizens and permanent residents are eligible for driver’s licenses or permits. Furthermore, applicants must provide proof of legal presence when applying for a driver’s license.

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

Driving without a license as an undocumented immigrant in New Jersey carries serious consequences. Depending on the circumstances, an individual may be subject to fines, jail time, or even deportation. In addition, an undocumented immigrant may lose the ability to obtain a valid driver’s license in the future. If the individual is stopped by police and found to be driving without a license, they may face a fine of up to $500 or up to 60 days in jail. Furthermore, if the individual is found to be driving without insurance or a valid driver’s license, their vehicle may be impounded for up to six months. Furthermore, an undocumented immigrant could be subject to deportation proceedings as a result of driving without a license.

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

1. Gather the necessary documents. To apply for a driver’s license in New Jersey, you will need to provide proof of your identity, residency, and Social Security number, as well as any documents required for your specific situation (e.g., a learner’s permit).

2. Visit a Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) office. You must apply for your driver’s license in person at an MVC office in New Jersey.

3. Take the vision test. You will be asked to read a chart with lines of letters and numbers while wearing corrective lenses, if necessary.

4. Take the written knowledge test. You will be tested on your knowledge of traffic laws and safe driving techniques in order to receive your learner’s permit.

5. Take the road test. Once you have passed the written knowledge test and held your learner’s permit for 6 months (if under 21) or 3 months (if 21 or over), you can take the road test to earn your driver’s license.

6. Pay the applicable fees. At the MVC office, you must pay applicable fees for the written knowledge test, road test, and driver’s license itself.

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

Unfortunately, New Jersey does not issue driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants. For detailed information about driver’s license in New Jersey for undocumented immigrants, please contact the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC).

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 qualify for some immigration benefits. However, depending on the facts of your particular case, certain immigration benefits may be unavailable to you. It is important to speak with an immigration attorney to determine what options are available to you in light of your particular circumstances.

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

The fee for a first-time driver’s license in New Jersey is $24. It is $6 for a renewal.

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

The processing time to get a driver’s license in New Jersey varies depending on the type of license being requested. Generally, applicants can expect to receive their license within four to six weeks of submitting the required paperwork and documents.

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

Unfortunately, undocumented immigrants living in New Jersey are not eligible to apply for or receive a driver’s license. The state does not recognize undocumented immigrants as having the right to operate a motor vehicle on public roads, and does not allow them to obtain a driver’s license or any other type of motor vehicle registration. If an undocumented immigrant attempts to apply for a driver’s license, their application will be denied.

If an undocumented immigrant is denied for a driver’s license in New Jersey, they should contact an immigration attorney who can provide more information about their rights, as well as assist them in filing any needed applications or petitions. An immigration attorney can also help them explore other options for obtaining legal status that may make them eligible for a driver’s license.

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

Q: Can an undocumented immigrant get a driver’s license in New Jersey?
A: No. New Jersey does not issue driver’s licenses or other forms of ID to undocumented immigrants.