How to Apply for a Driver's License as a Refugee in the US

If you are a refugee who has been granted asylum in the United States, you may be eligible to apply for a driver's license. The requirements for obtaining a driver's license vary from state to state, but in general, you will need to provide proof of identity, residency, and your immigration status.

Here are the detailed steps on how to apply for a driver's license as a refugee in the US:

1. Check your state's eligibility requirements. Not all states allow refugees to apply for driver's licenses. To find out if you are eligible in your state, you can visit the website of your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
2. Gather your required documents. The specific documents you will need will vary depending on your state's requirements. However, you will typically need to provide proof of identity, residency, and your immigration status. Some of the documents you may need include:
   • A valid passport
   • A refugee travel document
   • A work permit
   • A letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA) stating that your Social Security number (SSN) is not yet available
   • A utility bill or other proof of residency
   • A letter from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) confirming your asylum status
3. Visit your state's DMV. Once you have gathered your required documents, you can visit your state's DMV to apply for a driver's license. Be sure to bring all of your documents with you, as you may not be able to apply without them.
4. Take the driver's test. If you are applying for a full driver's license, you will need to pass a written and driving test. The specific requirements for the tests will vary depending on your state.
5. Pay the application fee. There is typically a fee associated with applying for a driver's license. The amount of the fee will vary depending on your state.

Here are some additional tips for applying for a driver's license as a refugee:

• Be prepared to provide proof of your immigration status. This may be a challenge, as you may not have access to all of the required documents. However, there are resources available to help you, such as the USCIS Asylum Help Center.
• Don't be afraid to ask for help. If you are having trouble applying for a driver's license, you can ask for help from a legal aid organization or a refugee resettlement agency.
• Be patient. The process of applying for a driver's license can take some time. Be patient and don't give up.

How to Receive a Document from SSA that SSN is Not Available Yet

If you have applied for an SSN but have not yet received it, you can request a letter from the SSA stating that your SSN is not yet available. This letter can be used as proof of your immigration status when applying for a driver's license or other government benefits.

To request a letter from the SSA, you can call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local SSA office. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, and other identifying information. The SSA will then mail you a letter stating that your SSN is not yet available.

The letter from the SSA will be a valuable asset when applying for a driver's license or other government benefits. It will help to verify your immigration status and ensure that you are not discriminated against.