TVDL is the acronym for the Temporary Visitor’s Driver’s License. While certain foreign visitors have long been allowed to obtain a TVDL, others have not.

Prior to the amendment of 625 ILCS 5/6-105.1, foreign nationals were required to show legal authorization to be in the United States to qualify. The law has now been amended to allow foreign nationals to obtain a TVDL by presenting an unexpired passport or consular identification card (matrícula), along with other standard requirements. Applicants must also prove they are not eligible for a Social Security Number.

The TVDL will not be issued the same day. Instead, applicants must wait for verification, and the license will be mailed.

A TVDL is valid for three years and cannot be used as identification, in compliance with the Real ID Act. It will also have a different appearance than a standard driver’s license. Another important aspect is that if you cannot show proof of insurance at a traffic stop, your license will not be valid and you will be committing a violation of 625 ILCS 5/6-101. Fortunately, this is classified as a petty offense instead of a misdemeanor.

This law goes into effect November 28, 2013, but now is the time to resolve any issues that may prevent you from qualifying. Dealing with the Secretary of State takes time, and even if you have never had valid driving privileges, you may still have a driving record that must be cleared. Call us today for an evaluation of your current status.

For the full text of the law, see Public Act 097-1157. For a clear rundown of what the new law means, see ICIRR’s guide.

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