Lori Meadows
As an international student in the US, you may be wondering if you need a state ID and how to get one. While it is not mandatory, it is highly recommended and useful for identification purposes. A state ID is a photo identification document issued by the state government and is used as proof of address and residency status. The process of obtaining one can be tedious, requiring multiple trips to the DMV and long waiting times. However, it is worth the effort to have a valid form of identification when using state-run services, boarding a plane, or buying alcohol. The cost of a state ID varies depending on the state, ranging from $10 to $90. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to obtain a state ID as an international student, ensuring you have the necessary documents and are aware of the requirements and procedures.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Proof of identity and residency status |
| Documents required | Passport, visa, Form I-94, Form I-20, EAD card, Form I-797, Social Security Number |
| Cost | $10 to $90 |
| Time taken | Temporary ID issued immediately, actual ID in a few days or weeks |
| Expiry | Depends on the end date on Form I-20 or DS-2019 |
| States where a Social Security Number is not required | California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, New Mexico, New York, Utah, Vermont, Washington |
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What You'll Learn
Benefits of a state ID for international students
International students pursuing their education in the United States have a challenging journey ahead of them. They need to secure affordable housing, improve their English fluency, and tackle various administrative tasks to maintain their legal status in the country. Obtaining a state ID is one of the essential tasks on their to-do list during their initial months in the US. Here are the benefits of a state ID for international students:
Convenience and Ease of Identification
A state ID is a handy identification document that fits easily into your wallet. It serves as a primary ID, allowing you to leave your passport with visas securely at home. This is especially useful when you need to prove your age for domestic travel, shopping, or visiting nightclubs and bars. It is more widely accepted than a school ID, which has limited use outside of the educational context.
Proof of Address and Residency
State IDs are not only for identification but also serve as proof of address and residency within the state. This is particularly beneficial when compared to a passport, which does not contain residential address information.
Compliance with Future Travel Requirements
From May 7, 2025, Real IDs will be mandatory for boarding domestic US flights and entering federal buildings. By obtaining a Real ID version of the state ID, international students can ensure they have the correct documentation for future travel within the US and avoid complications at airports.
Access to State-Run Services
State IDs are crucial for accessing state-run services. Without a valid state ID, international students may face challenges in using these services and could risk being asked to leave the country.
Enhanced Employment Opportunities
While a state ID does not permit driving, it can enhance employment opportunities by serving as a valid identification document during the hiring process.
In conclusion, obtaining a state ID as an international student offers convenience, compliance with future travel regulations, and access to essential services and employment opportunities. It is a vital step towards ensuring a smooth and legally compliant stay in the United States.
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Required documents for a state ID
As an international student in the US, you must obtain a state ID to remain in the country legally. Although it is not mandatory in some states, it is still highly recommended, as it is the most common form of ID in the US and can be used as proof of address.
The documents required for a state ID vary depending on the state, so it is important to check your state's official website for the latest updates and requirements. Here is a general list of documents you may need:
- Proof of identification and age: This can be your international passport.
- Proof of residency in the state: You can use documents such as bank statements, cell phone bills, rental lease agreements, or tuition bills that show your address in the state.
- Proof of legal US presence: You may need to provide an original copy of your US visa, a signed form I-20 (for F1 students) or DS-2019 (for J1 students), and your I-94 travel record.
- Social Security Number (SSN): Some states require this, but others do not. If you do not have an SSN, you may need a letter of SSN ineligibility from your local social security administration office.
- Certificate of health or vaccination record: Some states may require this.
- Proof of address in your state: This may include documents such as a rental lease agreement or utility bills with your name and address.
- Payment: The cost of a state ID varies depending on the state and can range from $10 to $90. Some states may also require an additional document fee.
After gathering the required documents, you can visit the DMV to apply for your state ID. It is recommended to schedule an appointment in advance to avoid long waiting times. You will typically receive a temporary state ID immediately, and the actual ID card will arrive in the mail within a few weeks.
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State ID vs. driver's license
International students in the US are advised to obtain a state ID as proof of identification and residency status. This is a photo identification document issued by the state government. It is used primarily as an identification document and is accepted as proof of address. However, it does not permit driving.
State IDs are commonly used by Americans who do not drive and are accepted in most instances where identification is required, such as when boarding a plane or buying alcohol. They are also accepted when performing transactions at a bank, and when boarding an airplane for a domestic flight in the US. A standard driver's license, on the other hand, is a state-issued photo identification card that permits the holder to drive legally. It serves as proof of identity and that the holder is legally allowed to drive. In many states, it is also used as proof of age.
The two documents may look similar but have different requirements, issuance procedures, and costs. For example, a state ID does not allow the holder to drive, get insurance, or get a job. The cost of a state ID varies depending on the state and can be anywhere between $10 and $90.
In addition to the standard driver's license, there is also the option of obtaining a REAL ID license. REAL IDs are compliant with the federal REAL ID Act and are considered more secure forms of identification. They are issued by a state motor vehicle agency and contain security features such as a barcode and a gold star on the card. REAL IDs are required for domestic air travel, entering federal buildings, and accessing certain military bases. The requirements for obtaining a REAL ID include providing proof of full legal name, date of birth, authorised presence, social security number, and state residency.
It is important to note that state requirements for obtaining a state ID may vary and can change over time, so it is recommended to check the latest updates on the official website of the respective state. Additionally, there are alternative state IDs available for students who are unable to apply for a regular state ID due to documentation or disability reasons.
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Where to apply for a state ID
As an international student in the US, obtaining a state ID card is essential. It is a photo identification document that proves your identity and residency status. It is useful when performing a transaction at a bank, boarding a domestic flight, or buying alcohol.
To apply for a state ID, you must first check your eligibility by visiting your state's official website and reviewing the requirements. The requirements and procedures for obtaining a state ID may vary across states and may be subject to change, so it is important to stay updated.
If you live in one of the following states, you can apply for a state ID without a US Social Security Number: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, New Mexico, New York, Utah, Vermont, and Washington. If you reside in another state, you may need to obtain a letter of SSN ineligibility from your local social security administration office before initiating the application process.
Once you have confirmed your eligibility, you can proceed to gather the necessary documents. These typically include proof of identity, proof of residency in the state, and proof of your legal US presence. Examples of acceptable documents for proof of residency include bank statements, cell phone bills, rental lease agreements, or tuition bills that display your name and address within the state. For international students, a copy of your visa, Form I-20 or DS-2019, and your I-94 travel record can serve as proof of legal US presence.
After compiling the required documents, you can visit the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) in your state to submit your application. The DMV will review your forms and determine your eligibility for a state ID. If approved, they will take your photograph, and you will receive a temporary state ID. Your permanent state ID card will typically arrive in the mail within a few weeks.
Remember to carry your passport and any other forms of identification with you during this process, as they may be required at various stages of your application.
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What to do if your state ID application is denied
International students can obtain a state ID card in the US. This can be used as a primary form of identification, while also allowing students to keep their passports containing visas safe at home. State IDs are accepted when performing transactions at banks, boarding a domestic flight, or as proof of address.
If your state ID application is denied, there are several steps you can take:
- Contact your college's international student adviser. They can guide you and help you understand what went wrong during the application process.
- Visit the DMV location where you applied for your state ID in person and ask for assistance. DMV employees are usually very helpful and willing to assist.
- Call the state DMV and explain your situation. They have the authority to grant exceptions to certain rules, so it is worth asking.
- Apply for an alternative state ID. This type of ID is issued to students who cannot apply for a regular state ID, such as those who cannot provide certain documents or have a disability that prevents them from completing the application process.
- If you are denied due to missing or incorrect documents, you may need to provide additional documents or visit a REAL ID Center for assistance.
It is important to note that state requirements for obtaining a state ID may change, so it is recommended to check your state's official website for the latest information. Additionally, having a valid and unexpired state ID is crucial for international students to remain in the country legally and avoid complications such as being denied boarding a plane or using other state-run services.
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Frequently asked questions
A state ID is a photo identification document issued by the state government. It is used primarily as an identification document but is also accepted as proof of address.
While it is not mandatory, it is encouraged that you obtain a state ID for identification purposes. A state ID can be used in lieu of your passport while in the US.
To apply for a state ID, you must first check your eligibility by visiting your state's official website and reviewing the requirements. Then, gather the required documents and pay the application fee. You can then schedule an appointment at the DMV location that handles ID applications.
