Quick Answer
Yes — Minnesota allows undocumented immigrants and ITIN holders to get a standard driver's license under SF 1 (2023). No SSN or proof of legal status required. To apply:
- Pass the written knowledge test at a Minnesota DVS office.
- Bring identity documents (foreign passport or Consular ID + 2 proofs of state residency dated within 60 days).
- Pass the behind-the-wheel driving test.
The license is valid for driving throughout the state but is not accepted as federal ID — not valid for domestic flights or federal buildings.
Can You Get a Driver's License in Minnesota Without an SSN?
Yes. Minnesota allows residents to obtain a driver's license (or driving permit) regardless of immigration status under SF 1 (2023). You do not need a Social Security Number or proof of legal U.S. presence to apply.
Minnesota passed SF 1 in 2023 — one of the newest states on this list. The law took effect in 2024. The Minnesota DVS (Driver and Vehicle Services) began processing applications for residents without legal status.
License type
Standard driver's license — not valid as federal ID (REAL ID). This license is valid for driving but cannot be used to board domestic flights, enter federal buildings, or as a federal form of ID. For air travel you will need your passport.
What Documents Do I Need?
Bring 2 categories of document to your Minnesota DMV appointment: proof of identity (a valid foreign passport, national ID, or consular ID) and proof of Minnesota residency, which generally requires 2 documents such as a utility bill, bank statement, or lease. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.
- 1Proof of identity — valid foreign passport or foreign government-issued ID
- 2Proof of Minnesota residency — 2 documents: utility bill, bank statement, lease, or government mail
Tip
Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If your documents are in a language other than English, bring a certified translation.
How Do I Apply Step by Step?
- Step 1: Gather your foreign identity document and 2 proofs of MN residency
- Step 2: Visit a Minnesota DVS office
- Step 3: Complete the application
- Step 4: Pass the written knowledge and vision tests
- Step 5: Pass the road skills test
- Step 6: License mailed to your address
What Can I Do With This License?
Once you have your Minnesota driver's license or driving permit, you can do 4 main things: drive legally anywhere in Minnesota, qualify for car insurance, use it as a state-issued photo ID for non-federal purposes, and present it as proof of identity to open a bank account. It cannot be used for federal purposes such as boarding a domestic flight.
- Drive legally anywhere in Minnesota
- Get car insurance (insurers require a valid license)
- Use it as a state-issued photo ID for non-federal purposes
- Use it as proof of identity at banks and credit unions — this can help with opening an account
You cannot use this license to:
- Board domestic flights (need a passport or REAL ID)
- Enter federal buildings or military bases
- Prove immigration status or work authorization
Next step: build credit
A driver's license is accepted by many banks as a second form of ID alongside your ITIN — making it easier to open an account. See which banks accept ITIN →
Frequently Asked Questions
Can undocumented immigrants get a driver's license in Minnesota?
Yes. Minnesota SF 1 (2023) allows undocumented immigrants to get a driver's license starting in 2024. You need a foreign passport or government-issued ID and two proofs of Minnesota residency. No SSN is required.
When did Minnesota start issuing driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants?
Minnesota SF 1 was signed in 2023 and the DVS began accepting applications in early 2024.
Does Minnesota require an SSN or ITIN for a standard driver's license?
No. Minnesota does not require a Social Security Number or ITIN under SF 1. You apply with a foreign passport or government-issued ID and two proofs of Minnesota address — such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
Does applying for a Minnesota driver's license affect my immigration case?
No. The Minnesota DVS does not share applicant information with federal immigration authorities for enforcement purposes. Your license application is processed through state systems and does not trigger any immigration notification.
Can I use a Minnesota driver's license to board a domestic flight?
No. The Minnesota standard driver's license for undocumented residents is not REAL ID compliant and cannot be used to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings. For air travel you will need a valid passport or other TSA-accepted REAL ID document. The license is fully valid for driving in Minnesota and throughout the U.S.
Which Other States Issue Licenses Without an SSN?
Beyond Minnesota, 19 states and Washington D.C. currently issue driver's licenses or driving permits to undocumented immigrants without requiring an SSN. Each sets its own document rules, but all accept a foreign passport or consular ID in place of a Social Security Number. Browse the full list by state:
For the complete list with each state's law and requirements, see the full driver's license guide →