A Driving Privilege Card Lets You Drive Legally Without a Standard License

A Driving Privilege Card is a state-issued document that permits you to operate a vehicle on public roads even though you do not hold a regular driver's license. It is not a substitute license — it is a separate credential with its own rules, restrictions, and expiration date. The card exists primarily for people who cannot obtain a standard license due to immigration status, but some states issue them for other reasons as well.

The card does not change your legal right to own a vehicle or register one in your name. What it does is give you legal permission to drive that vehicle. Police will accept it as proof of driving authorization during a traffic stop, and insurance companies in most states will write policies for drivers who hold one. However, the card comes with limitations: it typically cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding an airplane or entering a federal building, and some states restrict where you can drive or what type of vehicle you can operate.

Key Takeaways

  • A Driving Privilege Card permits you to drive legally in your state even if you are ineligible for a standard driver's license due to immigration status.
  • The card is issued by your state's DMV or equivalent agency and requires proof of identity, residency, and sometimes proof of financial responsibility (insurance or a bond).
  • Driving Privilege Cards are currently available in about 20 states, with different names and rules in each — some states call it an "AB 60 license" or "REAL ID alternative".
  • The card typically lasts three to eight years depending on your state, and you renew it the same way you would renew a standard license.
  • You cannot use a Driving Privilege Card for federal identification purposes, and some states restrict the card to in-state driving only.

Which States Issue Driving Privilege Cards and What They Are Called

Not every state offers a Driving Privilege Card. As of now, roughly 20 states and the District of Columbia issue some form of driving credential to people ineligible for a standard license. The names and rules vary significantly by state.

California calls it an AB 60 license (named after Assembly Bill 60). Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, and Washington all issue cards under different program names. Some states use the term "Driving Privilege Card" directly; others call theirs a "Limited License" or "Restricted License." The District of Columbia issues a non-driver ID that can be used for driving purposes. Each state sets its own may be able to access rules, fees, and restrictions, so you must check your specific state's DMV website to learn whether your state offers one and what the local requirements are.

Who Can Get a Driving Privilege Card

The primary reason states issue Driving Privilege Cards is to permit people without lawful immigration status to drive legally. However, may be able to access rules differ by state. Most states require you to prove you live in that state (usually with a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), provide proof of identity (a passport, consulate ID, or other government-issued document from your country of origin), and pass a written driving test and vision test just as you would for a standard license.

Some states also require proof of financial responsibility — either an active auto insurance policy or a bond posted with the state. A few states allow you to get a Driving Privilege Card if you have been denied a standard license for reasons other than immigration status, such as a suspended license due to unpaid child support or a medical condition that requires periodic review. Read your state's specific rules before you begin the process, because requirements are not uniform.

Documents You Will Need to Bring

The exact documents required depend on your state, but the following are typical:

  • Proof of identity: a valid passport, consulate-issued ID, birth certificate with a government-issued photo ID, or a national ID from your country of origin.
  • Proof of state residency: a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. A P.O. box does not count as proof of residency in most states.
  • Proof of Social Security Number (if you have one) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some states do not require this; others do.
  • Proof of financial responsibility: an active auto insurance policy in your name, or documentation that you have posted a bond with the state (required in some states only).
  • A completed process form specific to your state's Driving Privilege Card program.

Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are usually not accepted. If a document is in a language other than English, bring the original and an official translation (not a translation you made yourself). Call your state DMV before you go to confirm the exact list, because some states have additional requirements or accept alternative documents.

The process Process and Timeline

The process is similar to explore for a standard driver's license, but the location and paperwork may differ. In most states, you explore in person at a DMV office or a designated service center. You cannot explore by mail or online for a Driving Privilege Card.

At your appointment, you will submit your documents, complete the process form, pay the fee (which ranges from about $30 to $150 depending on your state), pass a vision test, and take a written driving knowledge test. Some states require you to also take a behind-the-wheel driving test; others do not. After you pass, the DMV will issue your card on the spot or mail it to you within one to two weeks. The entire process from process to receiving your card typically takes two to four weeks, though some states are faster.

Restrictions and Limitations of a Driving Privilege Card

A Driving Privilege Card is not the same as a standard driver's license, and it comes with real limitations. First, you cannot use it for federal purposes. You cannot board a domestic airplane, enter a federal courthouse, or access a federal building with only a Driving Privilege Card. If you need to fly, you will need a passport or another federally accepted ID.

Second, some states restrict where you can drive. A few states limit the card to in-state driving only, meaning you cannot legally cross state lines. Other states allow you to drive anywhere but may restrict the hours you can drive (for example, daylight hours only) or the type of vehicle (no commercial vehicles). Check your state's rules — the restrictions will be printed on the card itself or in the program documentation.

Third, a Driving Privilege Card does not give you the same legal standing as a standard license in all situations. Some employers will not hire you if your only driving credential is a Privilege Card. Some insurance companies may charge higher premiums or refuse to insure you. And if you are stopped by police, the card will satisfy the driving authorization requirement, but it may trigger additional questions about your immigration status — the card itself does not protect you from immigration enforcement.

Renewal, Expiration, and Keeping Your Card Valid

A Driving Privilege Card expires after a set period — usually three to eight years depending on your state. You renew it the same way you would renew a standard license: by visiting the DMV, submitting updated documents (usually just proof of residency and a new process form), paying a renewal fee, and passing a vision test. You do not have to retake the written driving test unless your state requires it.

Some states allow you to renew by mail or online if your card is not expiring for at least 30 days. Others require you to renew in person. Check your state's DMV website for the renewal important date — driving with an expired Driving Privilege Card is illegal and can result in a traffic citation, just as it would with an expired standard license.

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement at the DMV. There is usually a small replacement fee (typically $10 to $25), and you will receive a new card within one to two weeks. If your address changes, you must update it with the DMV — most states allow you to do this online or by mail, but some require an in-person visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a Driving Privilege Card to rent a car?

Most major car rental companies will not rent to you with only a Driving Privilege Card because they require a standard driver's license or an international driving permit. Some smaller local rental agencies may accept one, but you should call ahead to confirm. Having a credit card in your name will also help, as rental companies require a valid payment method.

Will getting a Driving Privilege Card affect my immigration case?

No. A Driving Privilege Card is a state document, not a federal one, and obtaining one does not change your immigration status or create a record that immigration authorities can use against you. However, the card itself does not protect you from immigration enforcement during a traffic stop. If you are stopped, police may still contact immigration authorities depending on local policy and the reason for the stop.

What happens if I move to a different state?

Your Driving Privilege Card is valid only in the state that issued it. If you move to another state, you will need to follow that state's rules for obtaining a driving credential. Some states will recognize your out-of-state Driving Privilege Card temporarily (usually 30 to 60 days), but you should obtain a new credential in your new state as soon as you can. Check your new state's DMV website for the process.

Can I get a Driving Privilege Card if I have a suspended or revoked license?

This depends on your state and the reason for the suspension. If your license was suspended due to unpaid child support or traffic violations, most states will not issue a Driving Privilege Card because the suspension is a separate legal matter. However, if you were denied a license solely because of immigration status, you can get a Driving Privilege Card. Contact your state DMV to explain your situation and ask whether you are may be able to access.

Do I need insurance to drive with a Driving Privilege Card?

Yes. Most states legally require you to carry auto insurance if you drive, regardless of what type of driving credential you hold. Some states require proof of insurance before they will issue a Driving Privilege Card. Even if your state does not, driving without insurance is illegal and can result in fines, license suspension, and civil liability if you cause an accident. Contact insurance companies in your state to find one that will insure a driver with a Driving Privilege Card.