Senator Rev. Ruben Diaz And Assemblyman Ruben Diaz, Jr. Applaud Governor Spitzer’s Policy To Allow Immigrants To Obtain Drivers’ Licenses

New York State Senator Reverend Ruben Diaz (D-Bronx) and New York State Assemblyman Ruben Diaz, Jr. (D-Bronx) are delighted that New York Governor Eliot Spitzer has announced new Department of Motor Vehicles policy that will allow immigrants to apply for New York drivers’ licenses.

"I congratulate Governor Spitzer for this effort to permit undocumented immigrants to obtain drivers’ licenses," stated Senator Diaz, a Member of the Social Services, Children and Families Committee. 

Assemblyman Diaz stated, "There are tens of thousands of immigrants who will now be able to drive trucks, taxicabs, cars, buses and other motor vehicles in order to provide for their families.  This change in policy will make it easier for immigrant families to be able to shop and go to doctors’ appointments. The new policy will also make our roads safer because it will decrease the number of unlicensed and uninsured drivers."

When this new policy begins, the Department of Motor Vehicles will accept foreign passports and birth certificates from immigrants as part of the point system proof of identification for new drivers’ license applications.  It is expected to improve safety to New York streets, lower auto insurance rates, and strengthen homeland security.

For further information, please contact Senator Diaz at 718/496-4793.