International Students: Getting A State Id Simplified

As an international student in the United States, you may need to obtain a state ID for various reasons, including boarding a plane, buying alcohol, or using other state-run services. While a passport can serve as a form of identification, it is not always convenient to carry around, and obtaining a state ID can make certain tasks easier. The process for obtaining a state ID varies depending on the state, and you may need to provide various forms of identification and proof of residence. In some cases, you may be able to obtain a temporary ID while your application is being processed. It is recommended to contact the relevant authorities, such as the DMV or your school's international student office, to determine the specific requirements and procedures for obtaining a state ID.

International students' photo identification options

As an international student in the United States, it is important to have some form of photo identification. While your passport can function as a form of identification, it is recommended that you obtain a state ID card as well. Passports are bulky and extremely difficult to replace if lost or stolen.

State IDs are used primarily as an identification document and are accepted as proof of address. They are also necessary for boarding a plane or buying alcohol. The process and requirements for obtaining a state ID are similar to those for obtaining a driver's license, but without the aptitude tests. The cost of a state ID varies depending on the state and can be anywhere between $10 and $90.

To apply for a state ID, you will need to present a valid passport with a visa, Form I-94, Form I-20, your EAD card, Form I-797, and social security number at the DMV. If you do not have a social security number, you will need to prove that you have applied for one. In some states, you may need a letter of SSN ineligibility from your local social security administration office before applying for a state ID.

In addition to a state ID, international students may also obtain a college or university ID. These cards allow access to on-campus facilities and can also be used to obtain discounts at various businesses.

State ID eligibility and requirements

As an international student, it is important to have a valid photo identification document. While your passport can function as a form of identification across the United States, you may want to consider getting a state ID card, as passports are bulky and hard to replace if lost or stolen.

State ID cards are useful as they can be easily carried in your wallet and used as your primary identification document. They are accepted as a form of ID when performing a transaction at a bank, boarding a domestic flight, or entering a federal building.

The eligibility and application process for obtaining a state ID vary depending on the state you live in. In some states, you may need a US Social Security Number to apply for a state ID. However, there are currently 13 states that allow you to apply without one: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, New Mexico, New York, Utah, Vermont, and Washington. If you don't live in one of these states, you may need to obtain a letter of SSN ineligibility from your local social security administration office before applying for a state ID.

To apply for a state ID, you will typically need to go to the bureau or division of motor vehicles (DMV) and present various forms of identification and proof of residency. The specific documents required may vary, but generally, you will need a valid passport with a visa, Form I-94, Form I-20, your EAD card, Form I-797, and your social security number or proof that you have applied for one.

The cost of obtaining a state ID varies by state but typically ranges from $10 to $90. Once you have presented all the required documents and paid the application fee, you will be issued a temporary state ID, and you can expect to receive your permanent ID card in the mail within a few weeks.

It is important to note that beginning on May 7, 2025, a Real ID-compliant identification card will be required to board commercial airplanes or enter certain federal facilities in the US. To obtain a Real ID, you must provide additional documentation, including proof of residency and, in some cases, a Social Security Number.

State ID application process

As an international student in the US, you can obtain a state ID card. This can be used as your primary form of identification, allowing you to prove your age when travelling domestically, shopping, or going out. It is also accepted when performing transactions at a bank or boarding a domestic flight, unlike a school ID card.

The application process for a state ID card involves several steps and can vary depending on the state. Here is a general guide:

• Wait Period: In most cases, you will need to wait at least ten days after arriving in the US before you can apply for a state ID.
• Choose a Location: Select a DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) location that issues state IDs. Different states may have different names for the agency responsible for state IDs, so it is worth checking this first.
• Schedule an Appointment: Many DMV locations allow you to schedule an appointment in advance, which is often more efficient than a walk-in visit.
• Gather Required Documents: Ensure you have all the necessary documents, which may include:

• A valid passport with a visa.
• Form I-94, Form I-20, EAD card, Form I-797, and/or similar documents.
• Proof of residency in the state, such as bank statements, utility bills, rental agreements, or tuition bills with your address.
• Social Security Number or proof of application for one (not required in all states).

• Complete the Application: With all your documents in order, proceed to complete the application form for the state ID. DMV employees are usually available to provide assistance if needed.
• Provide Biometric Information: At the DMV office, they will take your photograph, fingerprints, and a written signature.
• Receive Temporary ID: Once your application is processed, you will be issued a temporary state ID in paper form.
• Wait for the Permanent ID: Within a few weeks, you should receive your permanent state ID card in the mail.

It is important to note that there may be slight variations in the process depending on your state, so it is always a good idea to contact the DMV or refer to their website for specific instructions. Additionally, there are 13 states (including California, New York, and Illinois) that do not require a Social Security Number to obtain a state ID or driver's license.

Remember, obtaining a state ID as an international student can be a lengthy process, so start early and be prepared for multiple trips to the DMV.

State ID cost

As an international student in the US, it is important to have some form of photo identification. While your passport can serve as identification, it is not always convenient to carry it around, and it does not fit easily into a wallet. Passports are also difficult to replace if lost or stolen. Hence, it is recommended that international students obtain a state ID card within their first few months in the US.

State IDs are commonly used as the primary form of identification in the US and are accepted when performing transactions at banks or boarding domestic flights. The cost of a state ID varies depending on the state, ranging from $10 to $90. In some states, such as New York, you may be eligible for a reduced fee or no-fee non-driver ID if you are above a certain age or receive public assistance. In Michigan, you may be eligible for a no-fee ID if you are legally blind, experiencing homelessness, a veteran, or receiving state aid.

To obtain a state ID, you will need to present various documents, including a valid passport with a visa, Form I-94, Form I-20, your EAD card, Form I-797, and a social security number or proof of application for one. If you are an F1 or J1 student, you will also need to provide an original copy of your US visa, a signed Form I-20 or DS-2019, and your I-94 travel record. The end date on your Form I-20 or DS-2019 will be used to determine the expiration date of your state ID.

It is worth noting that some states, such as California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, New Mexico, New York, Utah, Vermont, and Washington, do not require a US Social Security Number to apply for a state ID or driver's license. Additionally, when applying for a state ID, you will have the option to obtain a Real ID-compliant version, which will be the only acceptable form of state ID for domestic flights and entering federal buildings starting on May 7, 2025.

State ID uses

As an international student, it is important to have some form of photo identification. While your passport can function as a form of identification across the United States, it is recommended to get a state ID card as well. Passports are unwieldy and extremely difficult to replace if they get lost or stolen.

State ID cards are a valid photo ID that international students can use to prove their identification and age when performing a transaction at a bank, boarding a domestic flight, or entering a federal building in the US. They can also be used when travelling domestically within the US, shopping at a grocery store, or going out to a nightclub or bar. State IDs are also useful when trying to access discounts for students at various stores and restaurants.

The process and requirements for obtaining a state ID are similar to those for obtaining a driver's license, except that there are no aptitude tests. The cost of a state ID varies depending on the state and can be anywhere between $10 and $90. In most states, you will need to prove that you have applied for a Social Security Number, or present a letter of SSN ineligibility.

When applying for a state ID, you will be given the option to obtain a Real ID state ID or a standard state ID. The Real ID is federally compliant and will be the only acceptable form of state ID to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building starting from May 7, 2025. To obtain a Real ID, you will need to present two different types of documents that prove your residency in the state, such as bank statements, cell phone bills, a rental lease agreement, or a tuition bill that shows your address in the state.

Frequently asked questions