Do I Need a Green Card to Get a Driver’s License in Florida?

Navigating life in America without a green card can be tricky. It’s essential to understand your rights, regardless of your residential status. If you’re new to the United States, you’re probably wondering how to get a driver’s license to make transportation effortless.  

How can a foreigner get a Florida driver’s license? Many non-citizens are wondering if they drive in Florida without a green card.  

You don’t have to have a green card to get a driver’s license in Florida. That said, the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles requires significant evidence to issue you such a license. Anyone who wants to drive a motor vehicle in the state must have a Florida driver’s license.  

Can Nonimmigrants Get a US Driver’s License? 

Driver’s licenses are controlled by state law, and immigration is governed by federal law. That means each state can develop unique laws and regulations regarding who can drive within the state.  

Regardless of your immigration status, you must meet several requirements to obtain your Florida driver’s license. 

• You have to be at least 16 years old
• Complete a drug and alcohol course
• Pass a vision and hearing test
• Pass the Class E Knowledge Exam
• Pass the Class E Driving Skills Test
• Provide identification and all required documents

In Florida, it’s required to submit evidence of lawful status or, in some cases, evidence of efforts to receive legal status to get a driver’s license. Here’s everything you need to know about getting your driver’s license in Florida without a green card. The easiest way to understand the documentation requirements is to differentiate between immigrants and nonimmigrants.  

What Documents Do I Need to Get a FL Driver’s License? 

Find out more about your specific situation and how you can get a driver’s license in Florida without a green card.  

Immigrants

If you’re a US immigrant or have been granted lawful permanent residency in the United States, you need the documentation listed below.  

 Primary Identification

You must provide an original of one of the following documents.  

• Valid alien registration receipt card (green card, Form I-551)
• I-551 stamp in your passport or on your Form I-94
• Form I-797 with your alien number, stating the USCIS has granted you asylum
• An immigration judge’s order with your alien number granting asylum
• Another form from the USCIS with your alien number proving your application for refugee status is approved.

Proof of Social Security

You must provide an original of one of the following documents with your complete name or SSN.   

• Your Social Security card 
• W-2 Form
• Paycheck
• SSA-1099
• Any Form 1099

What happens if you don’t have a Social Security number? If you don’t, you must bring a letter from the Social Security Administration showing that you were never given one. 

Proof of Residential Address

You must submit TWO of the following residential address documents. These documents can be copies or faxes.  

• A deed or mortgage statement
• Residential rental agreement
• Florida vehicle registration or title
• Florida voter registration card
• Utility bill
• Automobile payment booklet
• Medical or health card with address listed;
• Current homeowner insurance policy or bill
• Current automobile insurance policy or bill
• School transcripts for the current school year
• W-2 Form or 1099 Form
• Form DS2019

If you don’t have the above documents in your name, contact a Florida immigration attorney for additional help.  

You can learn more about it here.  

Nonimmigrants

You need the documentation listed below if you are a nonimmigrant and do not have immigrant or lawful permanent residence status. This applies to non-citizens renewing, replacing, or applying for a new driver’s license in FL. 

Primary Identification

You must provide an original of one of the following documents.  

• Form I-688B or I-766
• Proof of nonimmigrant classification (Form I-94) accompanied by a valid passport with a date of entry stamp. 
• A DS2019 must accompany J-1 or J-2 designation

You will need the following documentation if you fall under the refugee, asylee, or parolee classifications.   

• I-571 travel document or refugee travel permit
• I-512 parole letter 
• Immigration judge’s order granting asylum or cancellation of removal

All documents must be valid for more than 30 days from the date of issuance. 

Proof of Social Security

You must provide an original of one of the following documents with your complete name or  

SSN. The name assigned to your Social Security Number (SSN) will match the name on your Florida driver’s license. 

• Your Social Security card 
• W-2 Form
• Paycheck
• SSA-1099
• Any Form 1099

What if you don’t have a Social Security Number? You don’t have to have an SSN if you’re a non-citizen coming to the US without a work visa. However, you must prove you have not been issued a Social Security Number (SSN). 

Proof of Residential Address

You may not use your current driver’s license or ID card as proof of your address. You must submit TWO of the following residential address documents. These documents can be copies or faxes.  

• A deed or mortgage statement
• Residential rental agreement
• Florida vehicle registration or title 
• Utility bill
• Automobile payment booklet
• Selective service card
• Medical or health card with address listed
• Home or car insurance policy or bill 
• Educational institution transcript forms for the current school year
• W-2 Form or 1099 Form
• Form DS2019

What if you don’t have a permanent address? Letters from shelters or other transitional service providers may verify they receive your mail. A Certification of Address form must accompany the letter.  

Learn more about the process ​​here.   

Where Can I Make an Appointment to Get a Florida Driver’s License? 

You can schedule an appointment with one of the several Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles locations to apply for your driver’s license.  

If you’re still unsure if you qualify for a driver’s license or have other questions about your immigration status, please contact an immigration lawyer for further assistance.