Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker signed a bill into law on July 1, 2023, that will make standard driver’s licenses available to noncitizens regardless of immigration status. The law, which takes effect on July 1, 2024, will allow undocumented immigrants to obtain a driver’s license that is identical to the one issued to citizens and lawful permanent residents. The license will be valid for four years and will be accepted for identification purposes by all state and local agencies.
The law is expected to benefit an estimated 800,000 undocumented immigrants in Illinois. Supporters of the law say it will make roads safer by ensuring that all drivers have the proper training and documentation. They also say it will help undocumented immigrants integrate into society and contribute to the economy.
Opponents of the law argue that it will encourage illegal immigration and make it easier for undocumented immigrants to obtain employment. They also say it will be costly to implement and enforce.
The law is the latest in a wave of legislation across the country that seeks to make it easier for undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses. California, Colorado, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington have all passed similar laws.
Gov. Pritzker has signed into law other efforts to ensure Illinois is the most welcoming state for immigrants and to protect the safety and wellbeing of immigrant and refugee families.
If You Are Undocumented And Have A Drivers License From Another State
Suppose you are undocumented and have a valid, nonFlorida driver’s license. In that case, it will not be recognized by the state of Florida. And if you are stopped and do not have a documented legal presence in the United States – even if you have a valid driver’s license from another state – you will be ticketed.
Learn More: Undocumented Immigrants and Florida: Is It Safe To Travel To Disney This Summer?
An immigration attorney can help you understand your rights and options. They can represent you in court, negotiate with immigration officials, and help you apply for relief from deportation. They can also help you understand complex immigration laws and procedures and ensure your case is handled correctly.
A skilled deportation defense lawyer can help you resolve the threat of deportation and find ways to remain in the United States legally. Get started on your defense today. Call Godoy Law Office at 630-912-0322 to schedule a consultation with one of the experienced immigration attorneys today.
Immigration Attorney Mario Godoy has years of experience guiding clients with immigration issues through the immigration process along with guiding clients through the criminal case. Godoy focuses on family-based immigration law, business immigration law, removal defense, and criminal defense representation of immigrants. A criminal charge or conviction can be devastating to your immigration case. With over a decade of immigration law experience and memories of family members who were deported due to bad legal advice, Godoy is committed to helping other immigrant families receive the legal justice they deserve. As a legal entrepreneur who practices immigration law, criminal law, estate and probate law, and running two successful law firms, Mario Godoy understands the importance of keeping families together and making a home and future in America.
