State offices get word out about new driving cards

Huntsman has yet to sign another bill, HB223. Starting July 1, that bill would also make legal immigrants who aren't work-eligible able to get the driving privilege card. Those without a Social Security number or temporary tax number had previously been unable to obtain a driver's license.

"This bill represents a good compromise," Huntsman said. "The privilege card will give undocumented individuals, foreign students, foreign businesspeople and others who are here for an extended length of time the ability to maintain mobility in Utah. They will be allowed to establish driving records and obtain automobile insurance. However, the privilege card will not be accepted by government entities for the purpose of identification."

SB227 was one of a half-dozen bills and resolutions Huntsman signed Tuesday. The other signed bills included amendments to laws for naturopathic physicians, property taxes and consumer protection rules.

Under SB227, only those with a Social Security number will qualify for a Utah driver's license. New drivers using a temporary tax number, or ITIN, qualify for the driving privilege card. Those with existing ITIN licenses have until their first birthday after July 1 to turn in their driver's license for a card. State ID cards issued to those using ITINs will expire July 1.

Cards for those with ITINs will be valid for one year; for those with a visa, they'll be valid for five years or until the visa expires.

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E-mail: dbulkeley@desnews.com