TRENTON, NJ – What started as a state-level initiative in New Jersey has now become a heated national issue.
With key figures like Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Vice President Kamala Harris advocating for a federal law that would allow undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses, the conversation is now front and center in the national election debate.
In New Jersey, immigrants have been able to get driver’s licenses since 2021, thanks to a law enacted by Governor Phil Murphy.
This law made it possible for undocumented immigrants to obtain a driver’s license, provided they meet specific criteria and follow the necessary steps.
The process, while similar to that for citizens, requires non-citizens to prove their identity through a six-point verification system. The cost remains the same as it is for citizens, ensuring that undocumented immigrants can legally drive and contribute to their communities without facing unnecessary hurdles.
Now, as national figures push to make this a federal standard, the topic has sparked both support and opposition. Proponents argue that this would enhance safety and provide necessary legal recognition to millions of immigrants across the country. Critics, however, view it as a step too far, fueling a broader debate over immigration policy.
As this issue continues to gain traction, it’s clear that the debate over immigrant driver’s licenses is far from over—and it’s shaping up to be a significant talking point in upcoming elections.