Quick Answer
Yes — Oregon allows undocumented immigrants and ITIN holders to get a standard driver's license under SB 833 (2013). No SSN or proof of legal status required. To apply:
- Pass the written knowledge test at a Oregon 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 Oregon Without an SSN?
Yes. Oregon allows residents to obtain a driver's license (or driving permit) regardless of immigration status under SB 833 (2013). You do not need a Social Security Number or proof of legal U.S. presence to apply.
Oregon issues an "Oregon Driver Card" (not called a driver's license) under SB 833 (2013). The card authorizes driving in Oregon and is recognized for driving in other states, but is not a REAL ID and looks different from Oregon's standard driver's license.
License type
Oregon Driver Card — 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 Oregon DMV appointment: proof of identity (a valid foreign passport, national ID, or consular ID) and proof of Oregon 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 Oregon 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 an Oregon DMV office
- Step 3: Complete the Driver Card application
- Step 4: Pass the knowledge and vision tests
- Step 5: Pass the road skills test
- Step 6: Driver Card mailed to your address
What Can I Do With This License?
Once you have your Oregon driver's license or driving permit, you can do 4 main things: drive legally anywhere in Oregon, 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 Oregon
- 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 Oregon?
Oregon issues an Oregon Driver Card under SB 833 (2013) to residents who cannot prove legal U.S. status. It is not called a driver's license and is not a REAL ID, but it authorizes driving in Oregon and other states. No SSN is required.
What is the Oregon Driver Card?
The Oregon Driver Card is a driving authorization issued to Oregon residents who cannot prove U.S. legal presence. It allows legal driving throughout Oregon and is recognized in other states, but cannot be used as a federal ID.
Does Oregon require an SSN or ITIN to get a Driver Card?
No. Oregon does not require a Social Security Number or ITIN for a Driver Card. You apply with a foreign passport or accepted identity document and proof of Oregon residency. The DMV accepts a range of foreign government-issued IDs.
Does applying for an Oregon Driver Card affect my immigration status?
No. The Oregon DMV does not share Driver Card applicant information with federal immigration agencies for enforcement. Applying is separate from your immigration proceedings and does not notify USCIS or create any immigration record.
Can I use an Oregon Driver Card to board a domestic flight?
No. The Oregon Driver Card 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 Driver Card is fully valid for driving in Oregon and throughout the U.S.
Which Other States Issue Licenses Without an SSN?
Beyond Oregon, 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 →