Florida to Add Immigration Status Labels to Driver’s Licenses

Florida will introduce new changes to driver’s licenses and state identification cards that will include information about the holder’s immigration status.

Beginning January 1, 2027, a new law known as HB 991 will require all licenses and IDs issued in the state to clearly indicate whether a person is a U.S. citizen or a noncitizen with legal status.

Florida already does not issue driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants and currently limits the validity of licenses for certain noncitizens. Under the new rules, individuals with temporary visas, such as work or student visas, will only be able to obtain licenses valid for up to one year. This restriction will not apply to permanent residents who hold a green card.

Noncitizen applicants will receive a temporary paper permit valid for 60 days while their immigration status is being verified. In addition, the state will not recognize driver’s licenses issued by other states to undocumented immigrants.

The law also requires that licenses display a visible “NC” designation for individuals who are not U.S. citizens.

State officials say the changes are intended to strengthen identity verification and reduce fraud. However, immigration attorneys and civil rights advocates warn that the measure could lead to discrimination, including against individuals who are legally present in the country.

Immigration attorney Ana Mendieta has stated that the marking would be clearly visible on the front of the license, which could stigmatize noncitizens.

Critics also argue that the requirement could affect routine interactions with law enforcement, potentially leading to additional questioning during traffic stops, even when individuals have valid documentation.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles will be responsible for implementing the new rules.