Newly eligible undocumented immigrants apply for Mass. driver’s licenses
The RMV says it was a busy Monday at their service centers across the state as the official applications come in for the state’s new driver’s permit and driver’s licenses for undocumented residents. Under The Work & Family Mobility Act, undocumented immigrants to Massachusetts can get an official driver’s license.
Leonardo was able to ask his questions in Portuguese. He’s trying to secure a driver’s license under the state’s new law. “I’ve been here for 6 years so this is helping along for my family. Go to the hospital or driving for work,” said Leonardo.
Leonardo did not get his license or permit yet but he now has an appointment. The new law gives undocumented immigrants eligibility to get a Massachusetts driver’s license. Applicants need to bring proof of ID and date of birth, their current social security status and proof of residency in Massachusetts. The state says the goal is to get undocumented people on the road legally with car insurance without the fear of being deported during the process.
“Data privacy is very important to the registry with all of the information we have. We have measures we follow. We don’t provide any info to federal agencies,” said Registrar of Motor Vehicles Colleen Ogilvie.
Isabel Lopez is the Executive Director of Brockton Workers Alliance. She is helping eligible people in their community get on the road legally. “I know there have been families that have been here for many years and they have not been able to drive because they are so fearful,” said Lopez.
Izadora’s father does marble and granite work and they officially started the process to get him a license. He will first need to get the permit, then take the driving test to get a license. “He thinks it will be easy,” said Izadora.
As of Monday morning, the RMV has received over 42,000 requests for leaner’s permit appointments since launching the pre-registration process on July 1.
RMV says they brought on an additional 100 people to help with this program and more are being hired. RMV says they have 28 sites across the state that are open for these new licenses.
Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.
Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
