Quick Answer
Yes — Virginia allows undocumented immigrants and ITIN holders to get a standard driver's license under SB 1197 (2020). No SSN or proof of legal status required. To apply:
- Pass the written knowledge test at a Virginia 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 Virginia Without an SSN?
Yes. Virginia allows residents to obtain a driver's license (or driving permit) regardless of immigration status under SB 1197 (2020). You do not need a Social Security Number or proof of legal U.S. presence to apply.
Virginia passed SB 1197 in 2020. The law took effect July 1, 2020. Virginia DMV (DMV2Go mobile units and full offices) processes these applications statewide.
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 Virginia DMV appointment: proof of identity (a valid foreign passport, national ID, or consular ID) and proof of Virginia 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 Virginia 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 Virginia DMV 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 Virginia driver's license or driving permit, you can do 4 main things: drive legally anywhere in Virginia, 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 Virginia
- 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 Virginia?
Yes. Virginia SB 1197 (2020) allows undocumented immigrants to get a standard driver's license using a foreign passport or government ID and two proofs of Virginia residency. No SSN is required.
Is the Virginia driver's license REAL ID compliant? Can I use it to fly?
No. The Virginia driver's license issued under SB 1197 is not REAL ID compliant. You cannot use it to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings. For air travel, you need a passport or another TSA-accepted form of ID.
Can DACA recipients get a driver's license in Virginia?
Yes. DACA recipients can get a driver's license in Virginia. They may use either the standard REAL ID process (with their Employment Authorization Document and Social Security Number) or the alternative process under SB 1197 using a foreign passport or government ID and proof of residency.
How long is the Virginia driver's license valid before renewal?
Virginia driver's licenses are valid for 8 years. The Virginia DMV will send a renewal notice before your expiration date.
What if I don't have a foreign passport? Can I use a Consular ID in Virginia?
Yes. Virginia accepts a Consular ID (such as a Mexican matrícula consular) or other government-issued photo ID from your country of origin in place of a passport. You still need two proofs of Virginia residency dated within 60 days of your application.
Which Other States Issue Licenses Without an SSN?
Beyond Virginia, 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 →