Savanna Hoffman
International students on an F1, J1, or M1 visa are eligible to obtain a driver's license in the US state where they reside during their studies. When applying for a US driver's license, international students can request a Real ID, which is federally compliant and can be used as a form of identification for domestic travel and access to federal buildings. To obtain a Real ID, international students must provide proof of residency in the state and proof of identity, such as a valid passport. The specific documents required vary by state, and some states may have additional requirements. It's important to note that starting in May 2025, a Real ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of identification will be mandatory for domestic air travel and accessing certain federal facilities.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can international students get a Real ID driver's license? | Yes, international students can get a Real ID driver's license. |
| Required documents | A valid passport, proof of residency, and proof of legal status. |
| Proof of residency documents | Tuition bill, rental lease agreement, bank statement, or any other document with the applicant's full name and residential address. |
| Proof of legal status documents | Form I-20, Form DS-2019, Form I-94, F-1, J-1, or M-1 student visa, or employment authorization document (EAD). |
| Additional requirements | Some states may require additional documents, such as a Social Security number or a birth certificate. |
| State-specific requirements | Requirements may vary by state. For example, California requires proof of legal presence in the US, while New York accepts a valid foreign driver's license for driving in the state. |
| Time required | The time required to obtain a Real ID driver's license may vary depending on the state and the individual's circumstances. |
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What You'll Learn
International students can get a Real ID driver's license
International students can obtain a Real ID driver's license in the US, but the process and requirements may vary depending on the state. Here is a step-by-step guide for international students aiming to obtain a Real ID driver's license:
Step 1: Check State-Specific Requirements
Firstly, it is important to understand that driver's licenses in the US are issued at the state level, and each state may have slightly different procedures and requirements. Therefore, international students should refer to their specific state's driver's licensing agency website to learn about the exact application process and necessary documentation. For instance, some common names for this state agency are the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in states like California and New York, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) in Texas, and the Secretary of State Office in Illinois.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
International students will typically need to provide certain documents to prove their identity, age, legal status, and residency in the state. Here is a general list of documents that may be required:
- A valid passport to prove identity and age.
- Documents verifying legal entry into the United States, such as a student visa (F1, J1, or M1), Form I-20, Form DS-2019, Form I-94, or Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
- Two documents proving state residency, such as a tuition bill, rental lease agreement, or bank statement, or any other document with the student's full name and residential address.
Step 3: Visit the State Licensing Agency
Once the required documents are gathered, international students can visit their state's driver's licensing agency, such as the DMV, to submit their application. They may need to fill out specific forms, pay fees, and possibly undergo knowledge and road tests, depending on the state's requirements.
Step 4: Understand REAL ID Requirements
When applying for a driver's license, international students can request a Real ID-compliant license. This option is essential to consider, as starting May 2025, a Real ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport, will be required for certain purposes, including boarding domestic flights, entering federal facilities, and accessing nuclear power plants. A Real ID-compliant license is typically indicated by a star symbol in the top right corner.
In summary, international students can obtain a Real ID driver's license in the US by checking their state-specific requirements, preparing the necessary documents, visiting the state licensing agency, and understanding the importance of Real ID compliance for future travel and identification purposes.
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International driving permits are temporary
International students on an F1, J1, or M1 student visa are eligible to obtain a driver's license in the US state where they reside during their studies. The length of time for which international students with an International Driving Permit (IDP) can drive in the US varies from state to state. The IDP is a temporary measure, and many US states do not recognize international driver's licenses, requiring foreigners to pass a knowledge and road test.
The IDP is an official, UN-sanctioned travel document that is recognized in over 150 countries. It is a helpful form of identification, providing personal details in several languages, which can be useful when dealing with foreign authorities. The IDP is carried in conjunction with a National/Domestic driver's license, and can be essential in breaking down language barriers when travelling across countries.
The process of obtaining a REAL ID and the required documents will depend on the US state. However, in most cases, the state driver's licensing agency will require proof of identity, such as a birth certificate, passport, or permanent resident card, and proof of a Social Security number. International students intending to obtain a REAL ID driver's license should be prepared to present two different types of documents showing proof of their residency in the state. For example, a tuition bill and a rental lease agreement, or a tuition bill and a bank statement. These documents must contain the applicant's full name and a residential address located in the state.
From May 7, 2025, every state and territory resident will need to present a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport, for domestic air travel, accessing federal facilities, and entering nuclear power plants. International students can request a REAL ID when applying for a US driver's license.
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Required documents for the application
International students on an F1, J1, or M1 visa are eligible to obtain a driver's license in the US state where they reside during their studies. The process of obtaining a REAL ID varies depending on the state, and it is recommended that new international students wait until their SEVIS record has been updated.
When applying for a REAL ID driver's license, international students must present two different types of documents to prove their residency in the state. For example, a tuition bill and a rental lease agreement, or a tuition bill and a bank statement. These documents must contain the applicant's full name and a residential address located in the state.
In most cases, state driver's licensing agencies will also require proof of identity, which can be provided through a valid passport, a U.S. birth certificate, or a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). Additionally, proof of a Social Security number is typically required and can be demonstrated through a Social Security card, Form W-2, a pay stub, or a paycheck.
Furthermore, international students must meet the requirements for proof of lawful status and residency. Most states require foreign individuals to provide documents verifying their legal entry into the United States. This can be done by presenting specific forms depending on the student's visa status, such as Form I-20 or Form DS-2019. An international student may also need to provide their student visa, even if it has expired.
It is important to note that hard copies of all documents are required, and photocopies or images from cell phones are not accepted. The REAL ID checklist, available online, can be a helpful tool to ensure applicants have all the necessary documents before initiating the application process.
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State-specific requirements
International students on an F1, J1, or M1 visa are eligible to obtain a driver's license in the US state where they reside during their studies. The requirements and procedures for obtaining a driver's license vary by state. Here are the state-specific requirements for some states:
California
In California, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) issues driver's licenses. International students can obtain a REAL ID driver's license or a standard driver's license. To be eligible for a REAL ID, individuals must prove their current legal presence in the US with one of the accepted identity documents, such as a valid passport, Form I-20, or a student visa. Additionally, they must provide proof of residency in California by presenting two documents that contain their physical address in the state.
New York
In New York, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) handles driver's license applications. International students can drive in New York State with a valid driver's license from their home country. If they wish to obtain a New York State driver's license, they must pass a written test, complete a pre-licensing course, and pass a road test. New York also offers a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, which requires proof of identity and residency in the state.
Texas and Illinois
In Texas and Illinois, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Secretary of State Office, respectively, are responsible for issuing driver's licenses. While specific requirements for international students may vary, these states generally require proof of identity and legal entry into the United States, such as a valid passport and visa documentation.
It is important to note that the requirements and procedures for obtaining a driver's license, especially a REAL ID-compliant license, may differ from state to state. International students should refer to their specific state's driver's licensing agency website or office for detailed information on the required documents and procedures. Additionally, some states may have unique names for their driver's licensing agencies, so it is advisable to check the official state websites for accurate information.
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REAL ID Act and its implications
The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, enacted the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the Federal Government set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses and identification cards. The Act establishes minimum security standards for license issuance and production and prohibits federal agencies from accepting non-compliant licenses and identification cards for certain official purposes.
The REAL ID Act has several implications for US citizens and foreign nationals. Firstly, it sets higher security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards, with a requirement to present proof of identity and a Social Security number when applying or renewing a license or ID card. Secondly, it expands the grounds for inadmissibility and deportation of foreign nationals based on terrorist activities, including membership in terrorist organizations and endorsement or espousal of such activities. Thirdly, the Act requires states and territories to share their identification document databases, although this was not initially included in the DHS criteria to certify compliance.
The REAL ID Act has specific implications for international students seeking to obtain a driver's license in the US. While international students can apply for a US driver's license, the requirements vary by state. Most states require proof of identity and age, such as a valid passport, and documents verifying legal entry into the US, such as a student visa or employment authorization. International students intending to obtain a Real ID driver's license specifically, must present two different types of documents proving their residency in the state, such as a tuition bill and a rental lease agreement. It is important to note that some states may not recognize international driver's licenses, requiring additional tests to obtain a US license.
The enforcement of the REAL ID Act has been subject to extensions due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors. The initial deadline for states to comply was extended to at least September 30, 2021, and further extended to May 3, 2023, and then to May 7, 2025. After this date, only identification documents that are REAL ID-compliant or from states granted an extension will be accepted for domestic flights, accessing certain federal facilities, and other official purposes. It is important to check with individual state agencies for specific requirements and compliance status.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can get a Real ID driver's license. However, the requirements vary from state to state.
The documents required to obtain a Real ID driver's license as an international student vary by state. Generally, you will need to provide proof of identity and residency. Here are some common documents that may be accepted:
- Valid passport
- Form I-20 (for F1 and M1 students) or Form DS-2019 (for J1 students)
- Form I-94
- F-1, J-1, or M-1 student visa
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
- Two documents showing proof of residency in the state, such as a tuition bill and rental lease agreement or bank statement
A Real ID driver's license is a federally compliant identification document that meets the security standards set by the REAL ID Act. It is marked with a star symbol in the top right corner. Starting May 7, 2025, a Real ID or another acceptable form of identification will be required to board a US domestic flight or enter certain federal facilities.
International students with an international driving permit (IDP) may be allowed to drive temporarily in the US, but the duration varies by state. Some states may require international students to take and pass a knowledge and road test to obtain a local driver's license. It is recommended to check with your specific state's requirements.
