Maryland is home to a diverse population that includes approximately 275,000 undocumented immigrants as of 2016. Unlike many states, Maryland provides driving privileges to all eligible residents regardless of immigration status. This inclusive approach began with the passage of the Maryland Highway Safety Act in 2013, which eliminated the 2009 requirement for proof of legal immigration status to obtain or maintain a driver’s license.
Yes, undocumented immigrants can obtain and keep a Maryland driver’s license, though these licenses differ from those issued to individuals with legal status. The law was implemented with the primary goal of enhancing road safety by ensuring all drivers are properly tested, licensed, and able to obtain auto insurance. While the process for obtaining a Maryland driver’s license is similar for all residents, there are some specific requirements and considerations for undocumented immigrants that are important to understand.
Table of Contents
- How to Obtain a Maryland License as an Undocumented Immigrant?
- What Else Has Maryland Accomplished to Help Undocumented Immigrants?
- Speak to an Experienced Traffic Offense Attorney in Maryland Today
How to Obtain a Maryland License as an Undocumented Immigrant?
An illegal immigrant must meet several additional requirements to obtain a Maryland driver’s license. They first must prove that they are a resident of the state. They must also prove their identity with their birth certificate or a passport. Before obtaining a license, undocumented immigrants must show proof they filed income taxes for at least two years.
However, the license undocumented immigrants may receive is different from the license U.S. citizens and lawfully migrated residents receive. While they may look similar, the license for an undocumented immigrant is not a legal form of identification. All licenses obtained without proof of legal status will have a marking indicating it.
One crucial factor to remember is that you will need auto insurance if you own a vehicle. Penalties for not having car insurance in Maryland may include fines, jail time, or points on your driving record. For illegal immigrants, a failure to obtain car insurance may result in deportation.
What Else Has Maryland Accomplished to Help Undocumented Immigrants?
In addition to allowing undocumented immigrants the right to obtain a driver’s license, the State of Maryland has made progress in other areas regarding immigrants. In 2012, the state passed its version of the DREAM Act The state’s version extends in-state tuition rates to children of illegal immigrants living in Maryland. The bill saw immediate effects, and Maryland educators credited it with the 1% bump in graduation rates.
Speak to an Experienced Traffic Offense Attorney in Maryland Today
If you face traffic violation charges in Maryland, you must act quickly regardless of your immigration status. The negative ramifications of a traffic offense can have a detrimental impact on your life. At the Law Office of Hillel Traub, we recognize these ramifications and will do everything in our power to dismiss these charges.
Attorney Hillel Traub can apply his experience to various traffic-related incidents, including speeding tickets, driving under the influence, and hitting another vehicle. You should not take these violations lightly, so contact Attorney Hillel Traub today. Give us a call at (410) 580-1100 or complete our online contact form.
