400,000 undocumented immigrants can now apply for driver's licenses in New Jersey.

Hundreds of thousands of undocumented immigrants are now eligible to obtain driver's licenses in New Jersey.

The Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) changed the application process to accommodate people without a social security number (SSN). "Increased access to a driver's license will go a long way toward improving the lives of many New Jerseyans and improving public safety, " said MVC Chief Administrator Sue Fulton. "Our roads are safer when drivers are trained, tested, licensed and insured."

All interested parties must complete the state's Graduated Driver License (GDL) program to receive a driver's license or identification. Authorities warn that it may be difficult to get an appointment due to high demand: At least 400,000 people will be eligible  under the new program, according to ABC News.

The bill passed by Gov. (D) Phil Murphy in 2019 was scheduled to go into effect on January 1 , 2021, but was postponed until May 1. Thus, New Jersey joined the other states where undocumented immigrants can already obtain driver's licenses: New York, Utah, California and Utah,  Pix11 said .

"Expanding access to driver's licenses is critical to the safety of New Jerseyans and a step toward building a stronger and fairer New Jersey for all," said Murphy after signing the bill in December. 2019. "Allowing residents the opportunity to obtain driver's licenses regardless of immigration status will decrease the number of uninsured drivers and increase safety on our roads."

Undocumented immigrants in New Jersey can also obtain a professional or occupational license , according to other legislation signed by Murphy in 2020.