Quick Answer
Yes — Washington State allows undocumented immigrants and ITIN holders to get a standard driver's license under HB 3186 (2009), expanded by SB 5407 (2019). No SSN or proof of legal status required. To apply:
- Pass the written knowledge test at a Washington DOL 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 Washington Without an SSN?
Yes. Washington allows residents to obtain a driver's license (or driving permit) regardless of immigration status under HB 3186 (2009), expanded by SB 5407 (2019). You do not need a Social Security Number or proof of legal U.S. presence to apply.
Washington was one of the earlier states. The original 2009 law was expanded in 2019. Washington DOL (Department of Licensing) processes applications at offices throughout the state, with particular capacity in the Seattle and Yakima areas given large immigrant populations.
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 Washington DMV appointment: proof of identity (a valid foreign passport, national ID, or consular ID) and proof of Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington DOL office
- Step 3: Complete the application
- Step 4: Pass the 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 Washington driver's license or driving permit, you can do 4 main things: drive legally anywhere in Washington, 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 Washington
- 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 Washington state?
Yes. Washington state allows undocumented immigrants to get a driver's license under laws dating to 2009 and expanded in 2019. You need a foreign passport or government ID and two proofs of Washington residency. No SSN is required.
Does Washington state require an SSN or ITIN for a driver's license?
No. Washington does not require a Social Security Number or ITIN to get a driver's license. You apply with a foreign passport or government-issued ID card and two documents proving your Washington address — such as utility bills, bank statements, or a lease agreement.
Can I use a Washington driver's license to board a domestic flight?
Only if it is a REAL ID-compliant license. Washington issues both standard licenses and REAL ID licenses. Undocumented applicants typically receive a standard license, which is not accepted for TSA screening. You will need a passport for domestic air travel.
Does applying for a Washington driver's license affect my immigration case?
No. The Washington DOL does not share applicant information with federal immigration agencies for the purpose of immigration enforcement. Applying for a Washington driver's license is separate from your immigration status and does not trigger any notification to USCIS or ICE.
Can DACA recipients get a standard driver's license in Washington state?
Yes. DACA recipients in Washington are eligible for a standard, REAL ID-compliant driver's license. A valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and DACA-issued Social Security Number satisfy the DOL's proof of authorized presence requirement. Apply at any DOL office with your EAD, Social Security card, and identity documents.
Which Other States Issue Licenses Without an SSN?
Beyond Washington, 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 →