Quick Answer
Yes — Nevada allows undocumented immigrants and ITIN holders to get a standard driver's license under SB 273 (2013). No SSN or proof of legal status required. To apply:
- Pass the written knowledge test at a Nevada DMV 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 Nevada Without an SSN?
Yes. Nevada allows residents to obtain a driver's license (or driving permit) regardless of immigration status under SB 273 (2013). You do not need a Social Security Number or proof of legal U.S. presence to apply.
Nevada issues a Driver Authorization Card (DAC) — not a standard driver's license. The DAC authorizes driving in Nevada only and may not be recognized in other states as a driver's license. It cannot be used as a federal ID. Despite the more limited scope, it allows Nevada residents to drive legally and get insurance.
License type
Driver Authorization Card (DAC) — not a standard driver's license, not valid as federal 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 Nevada DMV appointment: proof of identity (a valid foreign passport, national ID, or consular ID) and proof of Nevada 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 consular ID card
- 2Proof of Nevada 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 identity and residency documents
- Step 2: Visit a Nevada DMV office
- Step 3: Complete the DAC application
- Step 4: Pass knowledge and vision tests
- Step 5: Pass the driving skills test
- Step 6: DAC mailed to your address
What Can I Do With This License?
Once you have your Nevada driver's license or driving permit, you can do 4 main things: drive legally anywhere in Nevada, 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 Nevada
- 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 Nevada?
Nevada issues a Driver Authorization Card (DAC) under SB 273 (2013). It authorizes driving in Nevada but is not a full driver's license and may not be recognized in other states. No SSN is required.
What is a Driver Authorization Card (DAC) in Nevada?
A DAC is a driving permit issued to Nevada residents who cannot prove legal U.S. presence. It is valid for driving in Nevada, allows you to get car insurance, but is not a standard driver's license and is not a REAL ID.
Does Nevada require an SSN or ITIN to apply for a Driver Authorization Card?
No. Nevada does not require a Social Security Number or ITIN for a DAC. You apply with a foreign government-issued ID and proof of Nevada residency. The Nevada DMV accepts foreign passports, consular IDs, and similar documents.
Does applying for a Nevada DAC affect my immigration status?
No. The Nevada DMV does not report applicants to federal immigration agencies. Applying for a Driver Authorization Card is a state process and does not notify USCIS or trigger any immigration enforcement action.
Can I use a Nevada Driver Authorization Card to board a domestic flight?
No. The Nevada Driver Authorization Card (DAC) is not a REAL ID 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 DAC is valid for driving within Nevada.
Which Other States Issue Licenses Without an SSN?
Beyond Nevada, 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 →