DDS
#1- From: Mitchell, Michael [mailto:mbmitchell@dds.ga.gov]

Sent: Sunday, February 01, 2015 11:07 AM
To: Cady, Jessica
Subject:

Hello Jessica,

Last week, Chairman Albers requested that I email him a short summary on proof of identity and lawful presence for obtaining or renewing a Georgia driver’s license. Could you please ensure that he gets this information:

All DDS customers are required to show documented proof of identity and lawful presence in the United States in order to obtain or, in certain cases, renew a Georgia driver’s license. For U.S. citizens, this is typically accomplished through a certified, state-issued birth certificate, which not only proves identity, but also U.S. citizenship. For non-U.S. citizens, proof of identity and proof of lawful presence can be accomplished through a valid, federally recognized immigration document, or combination of immigration documents.

Undocumented and illegal immigrants are not entitled to a Georgia driver’s license or ID card.

Also, because a Georgia driver’s license and ID card are considered to be “public benefits” under Georgia law, there are specific state guidelines, in addition to REAL ID, that DDS must adhere to in the issuance and renewal of licenses and ID’s. See O.C.G.A. Code Sec. 50-36-1.

Moreover, DDS verifies the validity of all immigration documents through the federal S.A.V.E. database. A Georgia driver’s license and ID card expiration date is tied to the expiration date of the immigration documents and the card itself is marked “Limited Term”. Any person whose immigration documents cannot be verified through S.A.V.E. or are under a deportation order will not receive a Georgia driver’s license or ID card.

Hope this helps.

Please let me know if Chairman Albers has any additional questions.

Mike

Mike Mitchell, Legislative Liaison
Department of Driver Services
678-413-8413