Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law expanding eligibility for a standard Minnesota driver’s license by allowing Minnesotans, regardless of immigration status, to obtain a license. With an estimated 81,000 undocumented immigrants in Minnesota, the bill will increase safety across Minnesota by ensuring that all drivers are licensed, insured, and have taken driver’s education courses. Governor Walz signed the bill alongside legislators, community, faith, labor, law enforcement, and immigrant advocates.
“Ensuring drivers in our state are licensed and carry insurance makes the roads safer for all Minnesotans,” said Governor Walz. “As a longtime supporter of this bill, I am proud to finally sign it into law, making our roads safer and moving us toward our goal of making Minnesota the best state to raise a family for everyone.”
“From picking a child up from school to driving to a doctor’s appointment, driver’s licenses help us safely access essential services and navigate our lives. This bill makes sure that our children and families can come out of the shadows and that all Minnesotans have opportunities to thrive, succeed, grow, and live their fullest lives in our state,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “Today, I am so proud to stand with Minnesotans who have been fighting for this day for decades. All of us are safer today because you organized, rallied, and kept the faith.”
Chapter 13, House File 4 expands the eligibility for a standard Minnesota driver’s license or identification card by no longer requiring proof of citizenship or lawful presence in the United States.
