Stewart Introduces Bill to Remove Barriers for Domestic Violence Survivors Seeking Identification Cards, Driver’s Licenses

TRENTON, NJ — Assemblyman Kenyatta Stewart introduced legislation to ensure survivors of domestic violence are not prevented from obtaining identification or driver’s licenses simply because they were forced to leave abusive situations without their personal documents. For many survivors, escaping abuse means leaving behind important paperwork such as birth certificates, Social Security cards, or proof of residency. These documents are required to obtain identification through the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJ MVC). Without ID, survivors often face additional barriers to securing housing, employment, and essential services.

“This bill recognizes the reality that many survivors leave abusive environments with little more than the clothes on their backs," said Assemblyman Stewart. "Survivors of domestic violence should not be trapped in a bureaucratic maze when they are trying to rebuild their lives. If someone has the courage to walk away from abuse, our state has a responsibility to ensure they have the tools they need to move forward.”

Assemblyman Stewart’s bill creates an alternative pathway allowing survivors to use documentation such as police reports, court records, medical documentation, or certification from a licensed social worker or domestic violence service provider to verify their identity when traditional documents are unavailable. Under the legislation, the MVC would verify the documentation and may issue temporary identification or licenses while the information is being authenticated to ensure survivors can begin accessing services and opportunities without delay. The bill also requires trauma-informed training for MVC employees and protects the confidentiality of sensitive documentation submitted by survivors.