From an immigration compliance standpoint, this development is critically important for employers and individuals alike in the context of Form I-9 verification. By way of background, all employers in the U.S. are required to complete the Form I-9 to verify every employee’s identity and work authorization at the time of hire. Driver’s licenses are commonly used as an identity verifying document. Due to COVID-related office closures, some individuals were unable to obtain or replace/renew their driver’s licenses. The ability to complete these transactions online, by mail, or via a reservation will help resolve some potential delays/issues during the onboarding process giving both employers and employees more stability.
New York DMV
New York DMV to resume limited operations and to implement a reservation only policy for limited transactions that cannot be done online or by mail or drop box. Reservations will only be offered once regions enter Phase 3 of the New York Forward reopening plan. Reservation can be made at dmv.ny.gov/reservation.
The following transactions continue to be available by mail or drop box:
For more information, visit https://dmv.ny.gov/more-info/dmv-reopening-guidance.
New Jersey MVC
In New Jersey, some agencies have been designated as Licensing Centers and some as Vehicle Centers. Lists of Licensing Centers and Vehicle Centers, as well as information on transactions, will be posted soon.
At designated Licensing Centers starting June 29 (tentative), MVC will be processing new licenses and permits, out-of-state transfers, and REAL ID for those whose appointments were canceled. In the meantime, the following document-related services are available online:
For more information, visit https://www.state.nj.us/mvc/.
Due to the growing health emergency caused by COVID-19 (coronavirus) and the directives of our local government officials, our offices are operating on a remote working model. We wish to assure you that the Firm is still fully operational and able to process your case to the extent possible within the parameters of local business and government office closures.
Visit our blog, The Immigration Observer, for COVID-19 updates.
