Summary of State Laws on the Issuance of Driver's Licenses

Publication Date: October 2003

Publisher: Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

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Research Area: Population and demographics

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Abstract:

The September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and recent events in California have prompted a series of questions and debate concerning states' issuance of driver's licenses to illegal aliens. Proponents contend that allowing illegal immigrants to obtain driver's licenses is a matter of public safety. Licensed drivers know the rules of the road and can buy insurance, thus making streets safer for everyone. Conversely, opponents argue that allowing illegal immigrants to obtain driver's licenses compromises national security. Moreover, opponents contend that permitting illegal aliens to obtain driver's licenses encourages such individuals to remain in the United States illegally. Thus, opponents contend that illegal immigrants should not be rewarded with such privileges. This report will briefly summarize the policy arguments related to states' issuance of driver's licenses to undocumented or illegal aliens. In addition, this report includes a state-by-state summary of the state laws on issuing licenses to immigrants. This report will be updated as developments warrant.