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Summary:
The September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and recent events in California have
prompted a series of questions and debate concerning states' issuance of driver's
licenses to illegal aliens. Proponents contend that allowing illegal immigrants to
obtain driver's licenses is a matter of public safety. Licensed drivers know the rules
of the road and can buy insurance, thus making streets safer for everyone.
Conversely, opponents argue that allowing illegal immigrants to obtain driver's
licenses compromises national security. Moreover, opponents contend that
permitting illegal aliens to obtain driver's licenses encourages such individuals to
remain in the United States illegally. Thus, opponents contend that illegal
immigrants should not be rewarded with such privileges. This report will briefly
summarize the policy arguments related to states' issuance of driver's licenses to
undocumented or illegal aliens. In addition, this report includes a state-by-state
summary of the state laws on issuing licenses to immigrants. This report will be
updated as developments warrant.
