Florida, Tennessee target immigrant driver’s licenses with new laws

As drivers travel across US highways, they’re usually welcomed with big “Welcome to…” signs. But in some states, not everyone is truly welcome especially undocumented immigrants with out-of-state driver’s licenses.

Florida, Wyoming, and now Tennessee have enacted or proposed legislation prohibiting individuals with specific types of licenses — typically issued to undocumented immigrants in other states — from legally driving within their borders. These efforts are part of a growing movement among Republican-led states to tighten immigration enforcement.

In 2023, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a law barring recognition of licenses from states such as Connecticut and Delaware if those licenses are issued exclusively to undocumented immigrants or marked to indicate lack of legal status. Driving with one of these licenses in Florida may result in fines or even jail.

According to Florida’s DMV, only specially marked licenses from Connecticut and Delaware are affected for now. Connecticut has issued around 60,700 such “drive-only” licenses.

As reported by the Associated Press, Tennessee’s governor is prepared to sign a similar bill. At least six other Republican-governed states—including Alabama, Montana, and New Hampshire — are considering comparable legislation. Alabama lawmakers have even suggested placing highway signs to warn travelers about the restrictions.

Supporters argue that the laws discourage unauthorized immigration and movement within their states. Critics, however, view the measures as harsh and discriminatory, warning they could penalize innocent travelers unaware of the legal nuances.

Beginning May 7, the federal government will require REAL ID-compliant licenses for air travel or access to federal buildings. However, states can continue issuing non-REAL ID licenses to undocumented residents who meet certain minimum requirements, such as passing a vision or driving test.

These state-level restrictions raise broader questions about fairness, discrimination, and how far individual states can go in regulating immigration—traditionally a federal domain.

(With inputs from Associated Press)

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