If Someone is Currently Holding Two or Multiple State IDs / Driving Licenses (DL) in the U.S.

What is State ID in the U.S.?

A State ID Card / DL is a government issued form of identification containing personal information, that allows its holder to prove their identity and citizenship. In the U.S., some states issue their own State ID Numbers to residents for many reasons such as for voting, government services, or public assistance programs. These state ID numbers prove as their residential address as well as serve as a form of national identification within the U.S.

What will be happening to someone who is currently holing two or more State IDs / DL in the U.S.?

Being as a resident in the U.S., this is essential to comply with state laws, rules and regulations. According to U.S. law and regulations, if someone is holding driver’s licenses or state-issued identification cards from different states, it is generally illegal to possess two valid IDs simultaneously in the U.S. When applying for a DL or state ID in a new state, the previous issued DL / ID must be surrendered prior to issue a new one. The official procedures usually involve the new state confirming with the prior state that the previous license/ID has been terminated. Failure to surrender the old DL / ID can lead to the legal consequences below (but not limited to).

• Holding multiple licenses is generally a misdemeanor which could result in fine or jail times

• Fines can range to $1,000 in some states (it may vary depending on the State’s regulations)

• ID/DL could be suspended or revoked

• In some cases, there might be a possibility of jail time, up to six months in certain State

• Having multiple licenses can be viewed as a form of identity fraud, leading to serious consequences

What if the non-U.S. citizen is currently holding two or more State IDs / DL in the U.S.?

Federal law specifically prohibits holding more than one REAL ID (DL or State ID). As discussed above, the violator will be facing serious legal consequences by the State or / and Federal government. According to current immigration laws and regulations, the non-U.S. citizen can be processed for an expedited removal from the U.S. with limited year or permanent inadmissibility charges (permanent bar).

Note: This information is for generally educational or informational purposes only and it does not constitute legal advice.