Federal Judge Upholds New York’s Driver’s License Access Law Amid Immigration Debate

A federal judge has upheld New York’s Driver’s License Access and Privacy Act—commonly known as the “Green Light Law”—rejecting a lawsuit by the Trump administration that sought to block the state from issuing driver’s licenses to individuals who are illegally residing in the country.

New York’s online summary states the law “allows all New Yorkers age 16 and older to apply for a standard, not-for-federal purpose, non-commercial driver license or learner permit regardless of their citizenship or lawful status in the United States.”

U.S. District Judge Anne M. Nardacci ruled in Albany that the administration failed to demonstrate the law violates federal authority or unlawfully interferes with immigration enforcement. The decision permits New York to continue issuing standard, noncommercial driver’s licenses under the statute.

The Justice Department filed the lawsuit in February, naming Governor Kathy Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James as defendants. At the time, former Attorney General Pam Bondi criticized the law, claiming it prioritizes “illegal aliens over American citizens.”

In her written decision, Nardacci clarified her role was limited to determining whether the law conflicts with the U.S. Constitution’s Supremacy Clause—which establishes federal law as superior to state law. She concluded the administration had “failed to state such a claim.”

The Green Light Law was enacted to address concerns that individuals without driver’s licenses were driving without proper testing, training, or insurance. State officials assert the law enhances road safety and expands access to auto insurance. Under the statute, applicants lacking valid Social Security numbers may submit alternative identification, including foreign passports or driver’s licenses from other countries. Applicants must obtain a learner’s permit and pass a road test.

The Justice Department argued the law disrupts federal immigration enforcement by requiring the state Department of Motor Vehicles commissioner to notify license holders when federal agencies request their information. Nardacci cited prior court rulings, including a decision by the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, noting driver data remains accessible through lawful court orders or judicial warrants.

During President Donald Trump’s first term, the administration temporarily barred New York residents from trusted traveler programs to pressure the state into revising the law—a restriction later lifted after legal challenges.

The ruling maintains the Green Light Law in effect as federal litigation over state and federal authority in immigration-related matters continues. The Department of Justice has not yet indicated whether it will appeal the decision.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.