DMV to Verify Immigration Documents Starting in 2009

Lawful presence status will be added to customer records.

The new DMV requirements are in addition to all other eligibility requirements for an Oregon driver license, endorsement, driver permit or ID card.

(SALEM, Ore.) - Oregon DMV is making two changes to the issuance of driver licenses, driving permits and identification cards effective January 1st 2009.

First, DMV will electronically verify information contained on federal immigration documents presented as proof of lawful presence in the United States by applicants for Oregon driver licenses, driving permits and ID cards.

DMV will verify the information by using the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program operated by the federal Department of Homeland Security. DMV will not issue driving privileges or ID cards to applicants whose immigration documents cannot be verified with the SAVE system.

Second, DMV will begin to note the U.S. citizenship or lawful immigration status on customer records starting January 1st.

This means that once an individual has provided Oregon DMV with proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent lawful presence in the U.S., he or she will not need to do so again for subsequent license or ID card renewals. However, individuals with temporary stays in the U.S. will need to bring proof of continued lawful presence each time they renew their Oregon license or ID card.

These changes are part of Senate Bill 1080, passed by the 2008 Oregon Legislature to strengthen driver license and ID requirements. Under the new state law, which took effect July 1, Oregon began requiring documented proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence in the country; proof of Social Security number, as well as electronic verification of the number; and proof of full legal name. These new requirements are in addition to all other eligibility requirements for an Oregon driver license, endorsement, driver permit or ID card.