Janice Lozano
International students in the USA can obtain a driver's license, which can make their lives easier by providing ease and flexibility in getting to school or work and exploring their surroundings. The process of obtaining a license varies from state to state, and there are fundamental steps and requirements that all states mandate. Students must wait at least ten days after arriving in the US for the government databases to update their arrival information. They should then confirm their record is marked Active in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). Depending on the state and country of origin, an International Driving Permit (IDP) and a driver's license from their home country may be required.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can international students drive in the USA? | Yes, international students can drive in the USA. |
| Who is eligible? | F and M students and their dependents. |
| What are the requirements? | Proof of residence, a valid passport, a visa, and a Social Security Number (SSN). |
| What documents are required? | Form I-94, Form I-20, and other immigration forms. |
| Where to apply? | Local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). |
| What are the tests required? | A driving test and a written test. |
| Is an International Driving Permit (IDP) required? | It depends on the state. |
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What You'll Learn
International students can get a US driver's license
The next step is to gather the necessary documents. These typically include ID verification, proof of address, and immigration forms. Specifically, you may need your passport, student visa, Form I-20, and Social Security Number (if you have one). It is important to note that you should bring original copies of these documents when applying for your license.
Before applying for a US driver's license, international students must wait at least 10 days after arriving in the country. This is to ensure that your Form I-94, "Arrival/Departure Record," information is updated in all government systems. Additionally, your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record must be marked as "Active" before you can apply. Your designated school official (DSO) can help you confirm that you have met these requirements.
Once you have gathered the necessary documents and confirmed your eligibility, you can visit the DMV or RMV office in your state of residence to submit your application. After a successful application, a DMV official will explain the next steps for obtaining your license. In some cases, you may need to pass both a written and a driving test. However, if you have a license from your home country or another state, you may be exempt from these requirements.
It is important to note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is not required to obtain a US driver's license. An IDP is a form of identification that allows individuals to drive legally in a different country. While it may be useful if you plan to drive in multiple states or for a short period, it is not necessary for obtaining a state-issued license.
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Requirements for an international driver's license
International students in the USA may be eligible to drive a motor vehicle, but they must successfully apply for and receive a driver's license. The application process for a driver's license in the USA varies from state to state, but there are some fundamental steps and processes that all states require.
Firstly, you must wait 10 days after arriving in the United States before applying for a driver's license. This is to ensure that your Form I-94, "Arrival/Departure Record", information is updated in all government systems.
Next, you should talk with your designated school official (DSO) about the driving rules and regulations in your state or territory. Your DSO will be able to confirm whether your student record is Active in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System.
Once you have completed the above steps, you can begin the process of applying for a driver's license. In the USA, you must apply for a driver's license at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The documents you will need to bring to the DMV vary, but generally include:
- All signed versions of your Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status".
- A valid passport and your most recent student visa (unless you are from a visa-exempt country).
- Proof of residence.
- An SSN card or a Form SSA-L676, "Refusal to Process SSN Application", if your state requires it.
- If you are on optional practical training, bring your Form I-766, "Employment Authorization Document".
After a successful application process, a DMV official will explain the next steps for attaining your driver's license. It is normal for some non-immigrants to only get temporary licenses. In addition, you may receive the license immediately or you may have to wait several weeks, depending on the state. A driver’s license applicant may also need to pass both a driving and written test. Depending on your state, if you have a license from your home country or another state, the DMV may not require you to take the tests. However, not all states accept driver's licenses from other countries.
If you are a citizen of another country and are living permanently in the USA, you may be eligible to apply for a driver's license from the state where you live. The residency requirement for obtaining a US driver's license is different in each state. Contact your state DMV to check the ID requirements and find out how to apply for a license. A state driver's license allows you to drive anywhere in the USA.
If you are not planning to stay permanently in the USA, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive legally, in addition to a driver's license from your home country. An IDP is a form of identification that many countries around the world recognize. It translates your identifying information into different languages. You must obtain an IDP in the country where your actual license was issued. The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the official organization authorized by the US Department of State to issue IDPs.
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Documents required to apply for a license
International students in the USA may be eligible to drive a motor vehicle, but they must successfully apply for and receive a driver's license. The process of applying for a driver's license can vary from state to state, but the basic steps are similar.
- A valid passport and your most recent student visa (please note that a visa is not required if you are from a visa-exempt country, such as Canada or Bermuda).
- Proof of residence. This requirement varies from state to state. Examples include a rental agreement, bank statement, paycheck stub, current unexpired license or ID, vehicle registration, auto insurance card, or utility bill with the same name and address.
- Social Security Number (SSN) card or Form SSA-L676 ("Refusal to Process SSN Application") if required by your state or territory. You can request a Letter of Ineligibility, also known as a denial letter, from the Social Security Administration (SSA) if you are not eligible for an SSN.
- Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status."
- Form I-94, "Arrival/Departure Record." It is recommended to wait 10 days after arriving in the US before applying for a driver's license to ensure this information is updated across all government systems.
- If you are on Optional Practical Training (OPT), bring your Form I-766, "Employment Authorization Document" (EAD card). The DMV will use the A number on this card to verify your status.
- Enrollment Verification Letter from the Office of Records and Registration (may be required by your state).
- If you are an F-2, M-2, or J-2 dependent, go to the DMV with your primary F-1, M-1, or J-1 and ensure you both have all the required documents.
It is important to note that the requirements may vary by state, so it is recommended to check the local DMV's website or speak with a designated school official (DSO) for specific information.
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Getting a license from your state's DMV
International students in the USA may be eligible to drive a motor vehicle, but they must successfully apply for and receive a driver's license. The process for obtaining a license varies from state to state, but there are some fundamental steps and processes that all states require.
Firstly, confirm your eligibility to drive in the US. F and M students and their dependents may be eligible to drive. Check with your designated school official (DSO) about the driving rules and regulations in your state. Your DSO will also be able to confirm if your student record is Active in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System.
Next, gather the necessary documents. When you apply for a driver's license, you will need to bring original copies of specific documents, including your Form I-20, passport, student visa, and proof of residence. The requirements may vary slightly depending on your state, so it is essential to check the local DMV website or office for the exact requirements.
After you have gathered the required documents, you can visit your local DMV office to submit your application. In some states, you may be able to start the application process online before scheduling an appointment to complete the process in person. A DMV official will explain the next steps, which may include taking a driving test and a written test.
It is important to note that you may only receive a temporary license as a non-immigrant, and there may be a waiting period of several weeks before receiving your permanent license. Additionally, purchasing car insurance is mandatory in almost all US states, so you will need to budget for this expense alongside the cost of your vehicle.
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Driving tests and rules in the US
In the US, driving tests and rules vary from state to state. However, there are some fundamental steps and processes that all states require.
Obtaining a Driver's License
To obtain a driver's license as an international student in the US, you must apply for one at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The basic steps are similar across states, but the specific application process may differ. Here are the general steps:
- Consult your designated school official (DSO) about driving rules and regulations in your state or territory.
- Ensure your student record is marked as "Active" in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
- Wait at least 10 days after arriving in the US before applying for a driver's license to allow your Form I-94, "Arrival/Departure Record," to update across government systems.
- Gather the required documents, including your Form I-20, passport, student visa (if applicable), proof of residence, SSN card or Form SSA-L676 (if required by your state), and Form I-766 if you're on optional practical training.
- Visit your local DMV office with your documents to initiate the application process.
- You may be required to pass both a driving test and a written test. Some states may waive these tests if you have a valid license from your home country or another state, but not all states accept international licenses.
- After a successful application, a DMV official will guide you through the next steps, which may include receiving your license immediately or waiting for a few weeks, depending on your state.
Driving Rules in the US
While specific traffic rules may vary by state, there are several standard rules of the road that apply across the United States:
- Drive on the right side of the road.
- Steering wheels are always on the left side of the car.
- White lines separate lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. Broken or hashed white lines indicate that you may change lanes when it is safe.
- Yellow lines separate traffic moving in opposite directions. Broken or hashed yellow lines mean you can carefully pass while paying attention to oncoming traffic. Never cross a solid yellow line or a double yellow line.
- When turning left at an intersection, pass in front of cars turning left from the opposite direction.
- Use the left lane to pass other cars travelling in the same direction.
- Green traffic lights mean you may go, yellow means slow down and prepare to stop, and red means you must stop. A flashing yellow light indicates to proceed with caution.
- It is legal to turn right at a red light unless a sign indicates otherwise. However, you must yield to oncoming traffic.
- Always wear a seatbelt when driving or riding in a car. Young children must be in car seats or booster seats and should not ride in the front passenger seat.
- Be aware of bicyclists and emergency vehicles. Yield to emergency vehicles with flashing lights or sirens, and give right of way to oncoming traffic when turning.
- Use your car horn only in emergency situations or when you feel unsafe.
- Familiarize yourself with road signs and traffic signals, as they may differ from those in your home country.
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Frequently asked questions
No, international students cannot drive in the USA with their home country's driving license. However, some states may accept licenses from certain foreign countries.
The requirements for getting a driving license in the USA vary from state to state. Generally, international students must submit documents such as ID verification, proof of address, immigration forms, and a valid passport. Some states may also require a Social Security Number (SSN) or a letter of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration.
The process for obtaining a driving license as an international student in the USA involves several steps. First, students must wait at least 10 days after arriving in the country for their information to update in the government systems. Then, they should consult with their Designated School Official (DSO) and confirm the requirements with their local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Finally, students can submit their application along with the required documents and may need to pass a driving and written test.
