Obtain Legal Identification
Challenges as an Undocumented Student
One of the biggest obstacles that undocumented individuals face is the inability to obtain United States Government identification. Most states, including Texas, prohibit undocumented immigrants from obtaining state licenses or even identification cards. Lack of identification makes it difficult to travel via plane, purchase age restricted goods, enter age restricted areas or even purchase certain types of over the counter medications.
Additionally, without identification an individual cannot open up bank accounts or file taxes. Thus, it is prudent for an individual to obtain legal identification.
Foreign Identification
There are two main forms of foreign identification you can legally get - the Mexican Matricula and Passport. Keep in mind this guide only applies to nationals from Mexican. However, individuals from other countries should be able to obtain similar identification using a similar process from their own embassies.
The Mexican Matricula is an identification card issued by the Mexican Government through its embassies. This form of identification is given to Mexican Nationals traveling or living abroad as proof of their native citizenship.
A passport is issued by a government and used by individuals to travel abroad, cross borders and universally identify their country of citizenship.
Keep in mind you should NEVER SHOW these forms of identification when stopped, apprehended or questioned by police or law enforcement. Originally, foreign nationals could show these forms of ID without fear of persecution. However, recently law enforcement officials began turning over individuals suspected of being undocumented to ICE and immigration authorities. For more information click here.
Matricula vs. Passport
The Mexican Matricula and Passport are not the same thing. Many grocery stores, clubs, bars, liquor stores, and other business that offer age restricted goods do not accept the Matricula. Additionally, most pharmacies will not accept the Mexican Matricula as proof of identification when selling certain medication.
The Matricula is also sometimes not considered valid ID when flying. For more information click here.
You can open up bank accounts with either identification but it usually a good idea to present both when starting a new account.
Domestic Identification
There are two types of legal United States Government identificaiton you can obtain, the Individual Tax Identification number and, in some states, a driver's license.
The ITIN is used to financial reporting and enables you to open up bank accounts and lines of credit. A driver's license allows you to legally operate a motor vehicle and travel without fear of being identified as an undocumented individual.
Not all states offer licenses to undocumented immigrants.