Immigrants To Seek California Driver Licenses
By AMY TAXIN, Associated Press |
The state
Immigrants in the country illegally have not been allowed to apply for a driver's license in
Immigrant advocates have cheered the licenses as a way to integrate immigrants who must drive to work and shuttle children to school. But critics have questioned state officials' ability to verify the identity of foreign applicants, citing security concerns.
Law enforcement officials say the program will improve road safety because licensed drivers must be tested and insured. A DMV study of 23 years of crash data found that unlicensed drivers were more likely to cause a fatal collision than licensed drivers.
State insurance officials hope the change will increase the number of drivers holding auto insurance, though some immigrants say they have always held insurance even though they could not get a license.
"For me, honestly, it is a blessing," said Aguirre, who has an appointment this week to apply for a license. "The relief of knowing they won't take your car is a big advantage."
Advocates have encouraged immigrants to seek the license. But they are warning those with deportation orders or criminal records to first seek legal advice since law enforcement can access DMV data.
Applicants must submit proof of identity and state residency and pass written and road tests. Those who don't possess foreign government-issued identification on a list of approved documents can be interviewed by a DMV investigator to see if they qualify.
Starting on Friday, immigrants who pass the initial hurdles will get a driving permit. But they must return for a driving test before they can get the new licenses, which will be marked with the words "federal limits apply."
Copyright: | Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. |
Source: | Associated Press |
Wordcount: | 474 |
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