As of November 19, 2001, the Department of Transportation, Division of Motor Vehicle Services, greatly restricted the ability of non-U.S. citizens to obtain New Jersey driver’s licenses. There are different procedures, depending on the applicant’s immigration status.

Lawful Permanent Residents of the United States (“green card holders”) can apply for a driver’s license at any of the 45 motor vehicle agencies in New Jersey. Along with proof of identity and age, all applicants are required to prove that their presence in the United States is authorized under the immigration laws. To prove lawful permanent residence, an applicant must present either a valid alien registration card (“green card” or Form I-551) or a valid foreign passport with a stamp indicating temporary proof of lawful permanent residence.

Non-Immigrant Visa Holders authorized to remain in the United States for longer than one year can only apply for a driver’s license at one of the four Motor Vehicle Services Regional Processing Centers. These centers are located in Wayne, Eatontown, Trenton, and West Deptford. The applicant must present a valid foreign passport with an acceptable Arrival/Departure record (I-94). The license will be marked with the same expiration date as that of the immigration status. The license will only be renewed if the applicant shows proof that their presence continues to be authorized under federal law.

Non-Immigrant Visa Holders authorized to remain in the United States for less than one year will not be issued a driver’s license. Visitors are authorized to drive with a valid foreign driver’s license (with an English translation) or with a valid International Driving Permit (IDP).

If you have any questions, please contact the Legal Services of New Jersey Immigration Project or LSNJ-LAW™, the statewide legal hotline, at 1-888-LSNJ-LAW (1-888-576-5529).

This article originally appeared in the June 2002 issue of Looking Out for Your Legal Rights^®.