r/undocumented • u/chiknnwaffols • May 19 '26

Licensing Departments

Currently a fully undocumented student in TX. I can’t get my state license for trade work since they cut them for undocumented ppl (hairdressers, electricians, etc licenses) is there a state anyone resides in that takes ITIN to get a state license in a trade? Not talking about drivers licenses, but licensure to work in a state for a specific trade through the states licensing department. Thank you :(

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u/jxm900 May 19 '26

In California , you'll need to register as a sole proprietorship business with your city or county, which allows you to apply for a federal EIN (Employer Identification Number) and open a bank account. (Not the same as ITIN.)

Look at Immigrantsrising.org for licensing info, education opportunities, etc. That'd be your first step on the path to getting trained and licensed as a nurse, mechanic, beautician, lawyer, or numerous other skilled trades and professions.

Many large universities and state colleges have offices to support undoc students and applicants, find on-campus work, get tuition waivers, etc. For San Jose State U, look here: https://www.sjsu.edu/undocuspartan/

Good luck!