Key Takeaways
• Since May 2021, New Jersey allows non-citizens, including undocumented immigrants, to apply for a Standard Driver’s License.
• Non-citizens can access professional licenses and some healthcare programs, but federally funded benefits mostly exclude undocumented immigrants.
• New Jersey protects non-citizens’ rights to public school enrollment and offers tax credits for families with dependents.
As of July 2025, New Jersey stands out as one of the most inclusive states in the United States 🇺🇸 when it comes to benefits and restrictions for non-citizens, including undocumented immigrants. The state has made significant changes in recent years, especially in areas like driver’s licenses, healthcare, and access to public benefits. These changes affect thousands of families, workers, and students across New Jersey, shaping daily life and long-term opportunities for non-citizens.
This article explains the current rules, how they work in practice, and what they mean for non-citizens living in New Jersey. It also covers the background behind these policies, the different views of key groups, and what the future may hold.
Who is Affected and What Has Changed?
Non-citizens in New Jersey—whether they are Lawful permanent residents, refugees, students, workers, or undocumented immigrants—now have access to several important state-level benefits. The most notable changes include the ability to apply for a New Jersey driver’s license, access certain healthcare programs, and obtain professional licenses, regardless of immigration status. However, there are still some restrictions, especially when it comes to federally funded public benefits.
Driver’s Licenses for Non-Citizens in New Jersey
What’s New and Who Can Apply?
Since May 1, 2021, New Jersey has allowed non-citizens, including undocumented immigrants, to apply for a Standard Driver’s License. This license is not the same as a REAL ID, which is required for federal purposes like boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings, but it does allow legal driving within the state.
Who is Eligible?
– Lawful permanent residents (green card holders)
– Refugees and asylees
– Temporary visa holders (students, workers, exchange visitors)
– Undocumented immigrants who meet residency and documentation rules
How Does the Application Process Work?
Applicants must provide six points of identification to prove their identity and New Jersey residency. This can include a mix of documents such as a passport, birth certificate, utility bills, or lease agreements. If an applicant does not have a Social Security Number (SSN), they can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or other accepted documents.
The process includes:
– Passing a written knowledge test
– Passing a vision test
– Completing a supervised driving period (for new drivers)
– Passing a road test
If someone has a foreign driver’s license, they may be able to use it to support their application, but they still need to meet all state requirements.
What Does This Mean for Non-Citizens?
– Legal Driving: Non-citizens can drive legally, which helps them get to work, school, medical appointments, and other daily activities.
– Identification: The license serves as a valid ID within New Jersey, making it easier to open bank accounts, sign leases, or interact with local agencies.
– Limitations: The standard license is not a REAL ID, so it cannot be used for federal purposes unless the applicant can prove lawful presence.
Confusion and Clarifications
Some reports in early 2025 suggested that undocumented immigrants still faced barriers to getting a license. However, official policy from the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) confirms that standard licenses are available to non-citizens, including those without legal status, as long as they meet the documentation and residency requirements.
Where to Get Help
Non-citizens can contact the New Jersey MVC for support. Offices in Freehold (732-780-3090) and Somerville (908-707-4560) are available to answer questions and help with applications. More information is available on the official MVC website.
Healthcare Access for Non-Citizens
Who Can Get Health Coverage?
Healthcare access in New Jersey depends on a person’s immigration status and their relationship to U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents.
Eligible Groups:
– Non-citizens who are spouses, parents, or children of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents
– Refugees, asylees, and other protected categories
– Lawful permanent residents
What Programs Are Available?
– State Health Benefits: Qualified non-citizens can apply for state health programs if they meet the requirements.
– Emergency Medical Care: Undocumented immigrants can receive emergency medical services, but ongoing coverage is limited.
Public Health Benefits
New Jersey does not add extra restrictions beyond what the federal government requires. Some state-funded programs may help non-citizens who meet certain criteria, but most federally funded benefits, like Medicaid, are only available to lawful immigrants. Undocumented immigrants are generally not eligible for ongoing public health benefits, except in emergencies.
Recent Changes
The 2025 New Jersey House Budget Bill keeps eligibility for programs like SNAP (food assistance) and Work First New Jersey (cash assistance) mainly for lawful permanent residents, refugees, asylees, and victims of trafficking. Undocumented immigrants remain ineligible for these programs, except for emergency help.
Practical Impact
– Lawful immigrants can access a range of health and nutrition benefits.
– Undocumented immigrants can get emergency care but have limited access to regular health programs.
For more details on public benefits and healthcare, visit the New Jersey Department of Human Services.
Public Benefits and Professional Licenses
Professional and Occupational Licenses
One of the most inclusive policies in New Jersey is the ability for non-citizens, including undocumented immigrants, to obtain professional and occupational licenses. This means they can legally work in many fields, such as healthcare, construction, and personal services, as long as they meet the state’s licensing requirements.
Key Points:
– Immigration status does not prevent someone from getting a professional license.
– Applicants must pay state taxes on business income. They can use an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) or EIN (Employer Identification Number) for tax registration.
Income Tax Credits
Non-citizens who have an SSN or ITIN and care for children under 17 or disabled family members can claim child or dependent tax credits on their state income taxes. This helps reduce the tax burden for working families, regardless of immigration status.
Public School Access
All children in New Jersey can attend public elementary and secondary schools. Schools are not allowed to ask about a student’s citizenship or immigration status, and they cannot deny enrollment based on this information.
Historical Context and Policy Evolution
How Did We Get Here?
Before 2021, undocumented immigrants in New Jersey could not get a driver’s license. The law changed in 2021, reflecting a shift in how the state views the needs of its residents. The goal was to improve public safety, help people get to work and school, and make life easier for immigrant families.
New Jersey has also kept a welcoming approach to professional licensing and tax credits for non-citizens. However, when it comes to public benefits like SNAP and Medicaid, the state mostly follows federal rules, with some extra help for certain groups.
Expert Perspectives and Stakeholder Views
Supporters’ Views
Advocates for immigrant rights say that allowing non-citizens to get driver’s licenses and professional licenses makes communities safer and stronger. When more people can drive legally, there are fewer unlicensed drivers on the road. Access to professional licenses helps immigrants find better jobs and support their families.
State Officials’ Position
State leaders stress the importance of balancing public safety with fairness. They believe that giving all residents the chance to drive and work legally benefits everyone in New Jersey.
Opponents’ Concerns
Some people worry that these policies might conflict with federal immigration rules or encourage more undocumented immigration. However, New Jersey has chosen to focus on what is best for its residents, using its own authority to set state-level rules.
Future Outlook and Pending Changes
What’s Next for Non-Citizens in New Jersey?
As of mid-2025, there are no major plans to change the rules about driver’s licenses or professional licenses for non-citizens. Lawmakers and community groups continue to discuss ways to expand healthcare access for undocumented immigrants, but federal laws limit what the state can do.
New Jersey may keep working to make the application process easier and to reach out to immigrant communities, making sure everyone knows their rights and how to access benefits.
Official Resources and Contacts
Where Can Non-Citizens Get Help?
- Driver’s Licenses:
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC)
MVC Official Website
Freehold Office: (732) 780-3090
Somerville Office: (908) 707-4560 - Healthcare and Public Benefits:
New Jersey Department of Human Services
Department of Human Services Website -
Tax Credits and ITIN Information:
New Jersey Division of Taxation
Division of Taxation Website
Summary Table: Key Benefits and Restrictions for Non-Citizens in New Jersey (2025)
| Area | Eligibility/Benefit for Non-Citizens | Restrictions/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Driver’s License | Available to lawful residents and undocumented immigrants via Standard License (non-REAL ID) | Must provide ID/residency docs; no REAL ID without lawful presence |
| Healthcare Coverage | Available to lawful immigrants and family members; emergency care for undocumented | SNAP and Work First benefits mostly restricted to lawful immigrants |
| Professional Licenses | Available regardless of immigration status | Must comply with state licensing requirements |
| Public School Enrollment | No restrictions; schools cannot ask immigration status | Applies to all children |
| Income Tax Credits | Available to immigrants with SSN or ITIN caring for dependents | Must meet tax filing requirements |
Real-Life Impact: Stories from the Community
Maria’s Story:
Maria, an undocumented immigrant living in New Jersey, was able to get a standard driver’s license in 2023. This allowed her to drive her children to school and get to her job safely. She used her ITIN to meet the documentation requirements. Maria says, “Having a license changed everything for my family. I feel safer, and I can do more for my kids.”
Jorge’s Experience:
Jorge, a student on a temporary visa, applied for a professional license to work as a nurse. He met all the state requirements and used his foreign credentials to support his application. Now, he works in a local hospital, helping his community and building his career.
What Should Non-Citizens in New Jersey Do Next?
- Check Eligibility: Review the requirements for driver’s licenses, healthcare, and professional licenses.
- Gather Documents: Collect the necessary identification and residency documents, such as passports, utility bills, or ITIN letters.
- Contact State Agencies: Reach out to the New Jersey MVC, Department of Human Services, or Division of Taxation for help.
- Stay Informed: Laws and policies can change. Keep up with updates from official state websites and trusted sources.
For more detailed information on driver’s licenses for non-citizens, visit the New Jersey MVC’s official page.
Final Thoughts
New Jersey’s approach to non-citizen benefits and restrictions reflects a commitment to inclusion and public safety. By allowing non-citizens, including undocumented immigrants, to get driver’s licenses and professional licenses, the state helps families, workers, and students build better lives. While some restrictions remain—especially for federally funded benefits—New Jersey continues to look for ways to support all its residents.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, these policies not only improve daily life for non-citizens but also benefit the wider community by promoting safety, economic growth, and fairness. Non-citizens in New Jersey should take advantage of the resources available and stay connected to official information as policies evolve.
Action Steps for Readers:
– If you are a non-citizen in New Jersey, review your eligibility for state benefits.
– Prepare your documents and reach out to the appropriate state agency for help.
– Stay updated on any policy changes by checking official government websites.
By understanding your rights and the resources available, you can make the most of the opportunities New Jersey offers to all its residents.
Learn Today
Standard Driver’s License → A New Jersey license allowing legal driving within the state, not valid for federal identification purposes.
REAL ID → A federally recognized ID required for boarding flights and entering federal facilities, not issued to undocumented immigrants in New Jersey.
Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) → A tax processing number issued to non-citizens who cannot obtain a Social Security Number.
Lawful permanent residents → Non-citizens authorized to live and work permanently in the U.S., often called green card holders.
Professional licenses → State-issued permissions allowing individuals, regardless of immigration status, to work in regulated professions.
This Article in a Nutshell
New Jersey offers inclusive benefits to non-citizens, including driver’s licenses and professional licenses, improving legal work and mobility despite federal restrictions on public benefits.
— By VisaVerge.com
