Young immigrants line up to get state driver's license

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Starting Monday, certain undocumented immigrants can apply for a driver’s license in North Carolina.

Eyewitness News spoke with Maria Hernandez at a northwest Charlotte DMV. She's 20 and has been in the United States since she was 8.

Under a federal policy called DACA, she is entitled to stay in the U.S. for two more years. In North Carolina, she and others can now apply for a driver’s license.

Hernandez arrived two hours early Monday morning to be the first in line. Eyewitness News was with her as she went through the process, including a driving test and getting her picture taken for her new license.

She said having her license is a big help, especially for getting to work.

But each license for undocumented immigrants will say legal presence, no lawful status.

The label has drawn criticism from some who say it's discriminatory.

Hernandez said having her license gives her more peace of mind.

“I have to think twice. You know, I can't -- I just can't do the same things that others can because of my status,” she said.

There are certain criteria that people must meet. Among other things, they can't be over 31 years old and must have been brought to this country before they were 16. For more information, click here.

WSOC