Can DACA Recipients Obtain Temporary Vehicle Registration in Connecticut?

Yes, DACA recipients can obtain temporary vehicle registration in Connecticut. Connecticut law does not require proof of legal presence in the United States to apply for a vehicle registration. DACA recipients must provide proof of identity and Connecticut residency in order to apply for a temporary vehicle registration in the state.

What Is Temporary Vehicle Registration, and Why Would DACA Recipients Need It in Connecticut?

Temporary Vehicle Registration (TVR) is a temporary form of vehicle registration issued by the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). It allows DACA recipients to legally register and drive their vehicle on Connecticut roads for a limited period of time. TVR is available for up to six months, and it is renewable. It allows DACA recipients to acquire the necessary documents to legally register their vehicles and obtain auto insurance in the State of Connecticut. TVR also helps DACA recipients meet other requirements for obtaining valid driver’s licenses and identifying documents.

Is There a Time Limit for How Long DACA Recipients Can Use Temporary Registration in Connecticut?

No. DACA recipients may use temporary registration in Connecticut for as long as their DACA status is valid.

What Documents Are Required for DACA Recipients to Apply for Temporary Vehicle Registration in Connecticut?

To obtain a Connecticut temporary vehicle registration, DACA recipients must provide the following documents:
1. Valid Connecticut driver’s license or Connecticut non-driver identification card.
2. Proof of valid vehicle insurance from a company licensed in Connecticut.
3. Vehicle registration application and fee.
4. Title or other proof of ownership of the vehicle.
5. Proof of Connecticut residency, such as a utility bill or other official document.
6. Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status, such as a birth certificate, passport or green card.
7. A copy of the DACA recipient’s Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

Are There Different Requirements for New and Used Vehicles for DACA Recipients in Connecticut?

There are not different requirements for new and used vehicles for DACA recipients in Connecticut. In order to register a vehicle in Connecticut, all applicants need to have proof of valid Connecticut insurance, a valid driver’s license or photo identification, and a current Connecticut emissions test (if applicable). The registration process is the same for DACA recipients as it is for all vehicle owners in Connecticut.

How Much Does Temporary Vehicle Registration Cost for DACA Recipients in Connecticut?

The cost of a temporary vehicle registration for DACA recipients in Connecticut depends on the type of vehicle being registered and the fees associated with it. The typical registration fee for a passenger vehicle is $60, plus any additional taxes or fees.

Can DACA Recipients Renew Temporary Vehicle Registration if Needed in Connecticut?

Yes, DACA recipients can renew temporary vehicle registrations in Connecticut. To do so, they must provide proof of identity, proof of Connecticut residency, and proof of ownership of the vehicle. In some instances, additional documents such as bills, bank statements, or lease agreements may be required.

Is Temporary Vehicle Registration Transferable if DACA Recipients Purchase a Different Car in Connecticut?

No, temporary vehicle registration in Connecticut is not transferable. DACA recipients would need to obtain new registration if they purchase a different car.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Types of Vehicles That Can Have Temporary Registration for DACA Recipients in Connecticut?

Yes. In Connecticut, DACA recipients are not eligible to register a vehicle that is classified as a motor home, motorcycle, moped, semi-trailer, trailer, or truck. Additionally, any vehicle being registered must pass a safety inspection.

Can DACA Recipients Drive Out of State with Temporary Registration in Connecticut?

No. DACA recipients cannot drive out of state with temporary registration in Connecticut, as Connecticut’s temporary registration permits are only valid in Connecticut. DACA recipients must obtain permanent registration in order to legally drive in other states.

What Happens if Temporary Vehicle Registration Expires for DACA Recipients in Connecticut?

If a DACA recipient’s temporary vehicle registration expires in Connecticut, they must renew it before operating the vehicle. This can be done by submitting the necessary documents, including proof of insurance and payment of all fees, to the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles. Failure to do so may result in fines and other penalties, such as having the vehicle impounded. If a DACA recipient is having difficulty renewing their temporary registration, they should contact their local DMV office for assistance.

Can DACA Recipients Obtain Temporary Registration for Salvaged or Rebuilt Vehicles in Connecticut?

No. According to the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles, “only those individuals with a valid Social Security Number may register a salvaged or rebuilt vehicle.” DACA recipients do not have valid Social Security numbers.

Are There Penalties for Driving Without Temporary Registration for DACA Recipients in Connecticut?

Yes, there are penalties for driving without temporary registration for DACA recipients in Connecticut. Such penalties could include fines, license suspensions and/or vehicle impoundment, depending on the circumstances of the offense. DACA recipients should always make sure they have valid registration and insurance when driving in Connecticut.

Can DACA Recipients Apply for Temporary Registration Online or in Person in Connecticut?

Yes, DACA recipients can apply for Temporary Registration online in Connecticut. The Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has established an online application process for Temporary Registration. DACA recipients should visit the DMV’s website and complete the Temporary Registration Application form. Once the application is submitted, the DMV will review it and provide instructions on how to proceed.

Is There a Waiting Period for DACA Recipients to Receive Temporary Registration in Connecticut?

No, there is no waiting period for DACA recipients to receive temporary registration in Connecticut. DACA recipients may immediately apply for and receive temporary registration after their application for DACA has been approved.

Can DACA Recipients Use Temporary Registration to Access Government Services in Connecticut?

No. DACA recipients are not eligible for Temporary Registration in Connecticut. Temporary Registration is only available to legal permanent residents, refugees, and asylum seekers.

What Should DACA Recipients Do if They Sell a Vehicle with Temporary Registration in Connecticut?

DACA recipients should follow the same guidelines for selling a vehicle with temporary registration in Connecticut as everyone else. They should obtain a final registration certificate from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), complete and sign a “Bill of Sale” with the buyer, transfer the title, and provide proof of insurance to the DMV. Additionally, they should inform the buyer of any existing loan or lien on the vehicle. Finally, they should also contact the DMV to cancel their temporary registration after the sale is completed.

Can DACA Recipients Transfer Temporary Registration to a Family Member in Connecticut?

No, DACA recipients cannot transfer their temporary registration to a family member in Connecticut. The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program is a federal immigration benefit that does not provide authorization to transfer or sponsor other family members for immigration benefits.

Is Temporary Vehicle Registration Affected by DACA Status Changes or Renewals in Connecticut?

No, temporary vehicle registration is not affected by DACA status changes or renewals in Connecticut. However, all drivers must have a valid driver’s license in order to register a vehicle. The Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires all drivers to be lawfully present in the U.S. in order to obtain a driver’s license or identification card. Therefore, DACA recipients may need to show proof of their immigration status in order to obtain a driver’s license or identification card.

Are There Advocacy Groups or Legal Services That Assist DACA Recipients with Temporary Registration Issues in Connecticut?

Yes, there are several organizations that provide legal assistance for DACA recipients in Connecticut. The Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI) provides free legal services for immigrants in Connecticut, including DACA recipients. The Yale Law School Worker and Immigrant Rights Advocacy Clinic (WIRAC) represents and advises clients on DACA issues, and the American Civil Liberties Union of Connecticut (ACLU-CT) provides legal assistance to DACA recipients on matters such as application materials and renewals. Additionally, the National Immigration Law Center (NILC) has a website with resources specifically for Connecticut DACA recipients.