On January 27, 2013, Illinois Governor Quinn signed a new driver’s license law (SB 957) which enables undocumented immigrants in Illinois to get temporary visitor driver’s licenses (TVDLs). This new law will take 10 months before it is enacted but it is a welcome change for many immigrants in Illinois who previously feared driving for fear of arrest.
Starting late November 2013, applicants will need to meet the following requirements to obtain a temporary visitor driver’s license:
- Prove that he/she has lived in Illinois for at least one year;
- Provide a valid unexpired passport or consular ID (“matricula”);
- Provide other proof of his/her identity and residency that the Secretary of State may require;
- Provide documentation that he/she is not eligible for a Social Security Number;
- Pass all applicable vision, written, and road tests;
- Show proof of insurance for the vehicle he/she uses for the road test;
- Pay a $30.00 fee.
Prior to fall 2013, applicants should ensure that they have a valid passport or consular ID and can visit the Secretary of State for materials to review for the written & road tests. For more information visit the Illinois Secretary of State online at www.cyberdriveillinois.com.