Non-citizens applying for a state ID card must provide proof of identity, legal presence, and residency within the state. Required documents often include a valid passport, visa or employment authorization card, and proof of address such as a utility bill or lease agreement. Specific requirements vary by state, so applicants should consult their local Department of Motor Vehicles for detailed information.
What Documents Does a Non-Citizen Need for a State ID Card?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Real ID-compliant documentation | Non-citizens applying for a Real ID-compliant state ID card must provide proof of lawful presence, such as a valid visa, permanent resident card, or employment authorization document, along with state residency evidence like a utility bill or lease agreement. They must also submit identity verification documents, including a valid passport or consular identification card, and a Social Security number or official denial letter if ineligible for one. |
| 2 | USCIS I-797 Notice of Action | Non-citizens applying for a state ID card must provide valid immigration documentation, with the USCIS I-797 Notice of Action serving as critical proof of status and eligibility, such as approval notices for visas, work permits, or other immigration benefits. State DMVs use the I-797 to verify lawful presence, making it essential alongside other identity documents when obtaining a state ID card. |
| 3 | Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record | Non-citizens must present the Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record to prove lawful entry and legal status when applying for a state ID card. This document, issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, verifies authorized stay durations essential for state identification eligibility. |
| 4 | EAD (Employment Authorization Document) | Non-citizens applying for a state ID card typically need to present an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services as proof of legal presence and authorization to work. The EAD, combined with secondary identification such as a passport or visa, verifies identity and residency status required for state ID issuance. |
| 5 | Conditional Resident Card | A Non-Citizen applying for a State ID Card must submit a Conditional Resident Card (Form I-551C) as proof of legal status, alongside valid identification such as a passport or consular identification. This document confirms temporary lawful permanent residency and is essential for meeting state-specific eligibility requirements. |
| 6 | Consular Report of Birth Abroad | Non-citizens applying for a state ID card must provide proof of identity and lawful presence, and the Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) serves as an official document establishing U.S. citizenship for individuals born outside the United States. The CRBA, issued by the U.S. Department of State, verifies birth details and citizenship status, making it a critical element in the state ID application process. |
| 7 | Temporary Protected Status (TPS) documentation | Non-citizens applying for a state ID card under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) must provide a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued by USCIS along with their TPS approval notice. Supporting documents such as a passport or other government-issued identification and proof of state residency are also required to complete the application process. |
| 8 | Parolee documentation | Non-citizens with parolee status must present a valid Form I-94, indicating their parole approval, along with a government-issued photo identification and proof of state residency to obtain a state ID card. USCIS parole documents confirm lawful presence, fulfilling eligibility requirements for state-issued identification. |
| 9 | SAVE (Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements) response letter | Non-citizens applying for a state ID card must submit a valid SAVE (Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements) response letter verifying their immigration status and eligibility. This document confirms lawful presence and is required alongside proof of identity and residency to complete the state ID application process. |
| 10 | DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) approval notice | Non-citizens applying for a state ID card must provide a DACA approval notice as proof of legal presence in the United States. The DACA approval notice, along with valid identification such as a passport or foreign birth certificate, satisfies the documentation requirements for obtaining a state ID. |
Introduction to Non-Citizen State ID Cards
Non-citizens can obtain a state ID card by providing specific documentation that verifies their identity and legal status. Requirements vary by state but generally include proof of residency, immigration status, and identity. Securing a state ID card helps non-citizens access essential services and enhances their identification options.
Overview of Driver’s License Eligibility for Non-Citizens
| Document Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Proof of Identity | Valid passport or consular ID card to verify identity. |
| Proof of Legal Presence | Valid visa, I-94 form, or Employment Authorization Document (EAD) confirming lawful status in the United States. |
| Proof of Residency | Utility bills, lease agreements, or bank statements showing the current address within the state. |
| Social Security Number (SSN) Verification | Social Security card or a denial letter from the Social Security Administration if not eligible for an SSN. |
| Driver's License Eligibility Overview | Non-citizens must provide documents proving identity, legal presence, residency, and SSN status to qualify for a state-issued driver's license. States may vary in specific requirements and acceptance of certain immigration statuses. |
Primary Identification Requirements
Non-citizens must provide specific primary identification documents to obtain a state ID card. These documents verify identity and legal presence in the United States.
- Valid Passport - A current, unexpired passport from the individual's country of citizenship is required as proof of identity.
- Visa or I-94 Form - Official travel documents such as a valid visa or the I-94 Arrival/Departure Record demonstrate lawful entry and status.
- Proof of Legal Residency - Documents like a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or Employment Authorization Document confirm eligible legal presence for ID issuance.
Proof of Legal Presence or Immigration Status
To obtain a state ID card as a non-citizen, you must provide documents proving your legal presence or immigration status. These documents verify your eligibility and ensure compliance with state regulations.
Acceptable proof includes a valid visa, a permanent resident card (green card), or an employment authorization document (EAD). Form I-94, indicating your arrival and departure record, is also required. Presenting these documents confirms your lawful status for issuing a state ID.
Required Supporting Documentation
Non-citizens applying for a state ID card must provide specific supporting documents to verify their identity and legal presence. Essential documents typically include a valid passport and an official immigration document such as a visa or an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
Proof of residency is also required, often supplied through utility bills or rental agreements. Applicants should check state-specific requirements, as some states may request additional forms of identification or residency proof.
Address Verification Guidelines
Non-citizens applying for a state ID card must provide documents that verify their residential address. Accepted forms typically include utility bills, lease agreements, or bank statements dated within the last 60 days.
Documents should clearly show the applicant's name and current address, matching the information on the application. Proof of address ensures the authenticity of the ID card and compliance with state regulations.
Acceptable Residency Evidence for Non-Citizens
What documents are accepted as residency evidence for non-citizens applying for a state ID card? Non-citizens must provide proof of residency through documents such as a valid lease agreement, utility bills, or official government correspondence. These documents must clearly display the applicant's name and address within the state to be considered valid.
Application Process for Non-Citizen State ID Cards
Non-citizens applying for a state ID card must provide valid proof of identity, such as a foreign passport or consular ID. Applicants need to submit documents verifying their legal presence in the country, like a visa, permanent resident card, or employment authorization document. The application process requires proof of residency, including utility bills or rental agreements, to confirm the address within the state.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Non-citizens must provide specific documents to obtain a state ID card, which often includes proof of legal presence, residency, and identity. Understanding the document requirements helps navigate common challenges faced during the application process.
- Proof of Legal Presence - Non-citizens need valid immigration documents such as a visa, green card, or employment authorization document to verify lawful status.
- Residency Verification - Applicants must submit documents like utility bills, lease agreements, or bank statements to prove state residency.
- Identity Confirmation - A valid passport or consular ID card is often required to establish identity and prevent identity fraud.
Prepare and organize all necessary documents in advance to overcome delays and ensure a smooth state ID card application process for non-citizens.
What Documents Does a Non-Citizen Need for a State ID Card? Infographic
