Dear Representative 

I am writing to ask you to support legislation and work with federal and Indiana state officials to ensure that Ukrainians who are lawfully living in Indiana can obtain or renew a driver's license.

Many Ukrainians came to the United States after fleeing Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Some have humanitarian parole, Temporary Protected Status, pending immigration applications, or other lawful documentation. However, difficulties verifying or renewing immigration documents can prevent otherwise eligible individuals from obtaining or maintaining an Indiana driver's license.

The inability to obtain a driver's license creates serious hardships for Ukrainian families. Indiana has limited public transportation in many communities, especially in rural and suburban areas. Without a license, individuals may be unable to:

• Travel safely and reliably to work or accept better employment opportunities.
• Transport their children to school, childcare, medical appointments, and activities.
• Attend English-language classes, job training, and immigration appointments.
• Obtain groceries, medications, and other necessities.
• Care for elderly relatives or family members with disabilities.
• Respond effectively to emergencies.
• Maintain independence and successfully integrate into their communities.
This barrier can also affect Indiana employers. Many Ukrainians are ready and willing to work, but transportation challenges may prevent them from accepting jobs or arriving consistently. Allowing eligible individuals to obtain licenses would support workforce participation, family stability, public safety, and Indiana's economy.

A driver's license would also promote safer roads by requiring applicants to pass the appropriate knowledge, vision, and driving examinations and to obtain insurance. This request is not for special treatment or an automatic license. It is a request for a fair and practical process that allows lawfully present Ukrainians to prove their identity and eligibility, complete the required testing, and drive legally.

Because driver's licenses are generally issued under state law, I respectfully ask you to coordinate with the Indiana General Assembly, the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles, and the appropriate federal agencies. Please consider legislation or administrative solutions that would:

• Recognize valid federal immigration and humanitarian documents presented by Ukrainian applicants.
• Provide a clear process for applicants whose federal documentation is awaiting renewal or extension.
• Improve communication between federal agencies and the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
• Prevent eligible Ukrainians from losing their driving privileges because of federal processing delays.
• Provide translated information explaining documentation and application requirements.
Ukrainian families in Indiana are working to rebuild their lives, support themselves, and contribute to their communities. Reliable transportation is essential to that process. I respectfully urge you to help establish a clear and accessible path for eligible Ukrainians to obtain and renew Indiana driver's licenses.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I would appreciate a response explaining what actions your office can take to address this issue.

Sincerely, 

Your Constituent