In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards what are known as “drive only license states.” These are states in which residents can obtain a driver’s license without also having a separate form of identification, such as a state-issued ID card or a passport.
Proponents of drive only license states argue that these policies make it easier for residents, particularly those from marginalized communities, to participate fully in society. Obtaining a driver’s license is often a key step towards independence and economic stability, allowing individuals to drive to work, school, and other essential destinations.
However, critics of drive only license states raise concerns about potential security risks. They argue that having separate forms of identification helps to prevent identity theft and fraud, and that allowing residents to obtain a driver’s license without additional documentation could open the door to abuse.
Despite these concerns, drive only license states have continued to gain momentum in recent years. Currently, there are 13 states that offer drive-only licenses, including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, Vermont, Washington, and Washington, D.C.
One of the most high-profile examples of a drive only license state is California. In 2015, California became the largest state to offer drive-only licenses to undocumented immigrants. The move was hailed as a major victory for immigrant rights advocates, who argued that immigrants should have the right to drive legally and safely, regardless of their residency status.
Since then, other states have followed California’s lead in implementing drive-only license programs. In 2019, Illinois became the latest state to offer drive-only licenses to undocumented residents. The program, known as the Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL) program, allows undocumented immigrants to obtain a driver’s license by providing proof of residency and passing a driving test.
The implementation of drive-only license programs has not been without controversy. In some states, lawmakers have sought to repeal or limit these programs, citing concerns about security and fraud. However, supporters of drive-only licenses have pushed back, arguing that these programs are essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents, regardless of their immigration status.
In addition to providing greater access to transportation, drive-only license states have also been shown to have economic benefits. A study by the UCLA Institute for Research on Labor and Employment found that California’s drive-only license program could generate up to $10.7 million in economic activity and create over 5,000 new jobs.
Furthermore, drive-only license programs have been linked to increased road safety. A study by the Stanford Immigration Policy Lab found that California’s drive-only license program led to a significant decrease in hit-and-run accidents, as undocumented immigrants were more likely to report accidents when they had a legal driver’s license.
Despite these positive outcomes, drive-only license states continue to face challenges. In some states, there are ongoing efforts to restrict or repeal these programs, while in others, there are calls for expanded access to driver’s licenses for all residents, regardless of their immigration status.
As the debate over drive-only license states continues, it is clear that these programs play a crucial role in promoting safety, economic opportunity, and inclusion for all residents. By providing access to driver’s licenses for all residents, regardless of their immigration status, drive-only license states are helping to create a more just and equitable society for all.
