(CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Under legislation passed by Illinois lawmakers in 2023, four-year standard driver’s licenses will now replace Temporary Visitor Driver’s Licenses (TVDLs) for immigrant drivers.  The words “Federal Limits Apply” will be printed on the licenses, per the law that took effect Monday.

“This is an important step forward in reducing the stigma that our immigrant population is forced to face,” Giannoulias said. “It will also make our roads safer by ensuring that more motorists can legally drive – having to pass written and behind-the-wheel driving tests and show proof of insurance – like all other licensed Illinois drivers.”

The Secretary of State’s office reports the TVDLs cannot be used for identification for tasks like opening a bank account and applying for an apartment, and they display a purple banner noting the person is undocumented, even though many have lawful status.

“Starting today, immigrant families will no longer face restricted access to basic services and endure the stigma associated with the TVDL purple banner,” said Sen. Ram Villivalam (8th District-Chicago). “Offering standard driver’s licenses to these individuals prevents discrimination while keeping our roads and communities safe.”

House Bill 3882 was sponsored by Villivalam and Rep. Barbara Hernandez. To be eligible for a standard driver’s license, the applicant must have lived in Illinois for more than a year and provide a passport or consular card, proof of residency and proof of insurance.  Applicants must also pass vision, written and behind-the-wheel driving tests.

Under the new legislation, driver information data sharing is restricted for immigration enforcement purposes, but immigration agents can request the information with a court-issued warrant, order or subpoena. The Secretary of State’s office adds drivers will not be able to obtain a REAL ID or be added to voting rolls.