Douglas Olsen
International students in the United States are often advised to obtain a state ID card as proof of identification and residency. While it is not mandatory, a state ID is a useful document to have for daily activities such as travelling, shopping, or going out to nightclubs or bars. It is also a more convenient alternative to carrying a passport for identification purposes. The process of applying for a state ID can be challenging, and international students must submit various documents, including proof of address and legal US presence. The cost of a state ID varies across states, ranging from $10 to $90.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Confirming your address and identity |
| Issuing authority | State government of your resident state |
| Documents required | Passport, visa, proof of address, vaccination record, social security number (optional) |
| Cost | Between $10 and $90 |
| Benefits | Accepted as a form of identification when performing a transaction at a bank, boarding a domestic flight, buying alcohol, etc. |
| Drawbacks | Does not permit driving, getting insurance, or getting a job |
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What You'll Learn
Benefits of a state ID for international students
International students in the United States are not mandated to obtain a state ID card. However, it is highly recommended that they do so. Obtaining a state ID card as an international student in the US offers several advantages and can be added to the to-do list in the first few months.
A state ID card is a valuable form of identification for international students. It is a government-issued photo ID that serves as proof of identity and residency within the state. This can be extremely useful when performing transactions at banks, boarding domestic flights, or entering federal buildings, such as the local Social Security Administration Office. It is also accepted as proof of address. Having a state ID allows students to leave their passports, which are typically used for identification, safe at home. This reduces the risk of losing their passports and the hassle of carrying them everywhere.
Moreover, a state ID card can be used to prove one's age when travelling domestically, shopping at grocery stores, or visiting nightclubs or bars. It is also useful when applying for jobs or using other state-run services. The Real ID version of the state ID card is federally compliant and will be the only acceptable form of state ID for certain purposes starting May 7, 2025.
The process of obtaining a state ID card typically involves presenting the required documents, such as proof of identity, residency, and legal US presence, and paying the application fee. International students should check the specific requirements for their state, as they may vary. Some states require a Social Security Number or a letter of SSN ineligibility, while others do not. The cost of obtaining a state ID can range from $10 to $90, and the card is typically received within a few weeks of applying.
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State ID vs. driver's license
International students in the US are often advised to obtain a state ID card within their first few months in the country. While it is not mandatory, it is useful to have one as a primary identification document, especially when performing transactions at a bank or boarding an airplane for a domestic flight. A state ID can be used to prove one's age when travelling within the US, shopping at a grocery store, or visiting a nightclub or bar. It is also more convenient to carry around in one's wallet than a passport.
A driver's license, on the other hand, is a state-issued photo identification card that allows individuals to drive legally. It serves as proof of identity and legal authorisation to operate a motor vehicle. In many states, a driver's license is also used as proof of age when purchasing alcohol or tobacco products. Notably, it is not possible to hold both a state ID and a driver's license simultaneously. Obtaining one typically invalidates the other.
The appearance of state IDs and driver's licenses is similar, but there are noticeable differences in text, colour, and design. For instance, an Indiana state ID features a cardinal, while the driver's license has a racecar. Additionally, a driver's license may include a car image and a driver's license number.
In recent years, a new form of identification called REAL ID has been introduced in the US. REAL IDs are issued by state motor vehicle agencies and are compliant with the federal REAL ID Act. They are more secure than standard driver's licenses and are required for certain purposes, such as boarding domestic flights, entering federal buildings, and accessing specific military bases. To obtain a REAL ID, individuals must provide proof of their full legal name, date of birth, authorised presence, social security number, and state residency.
International students should carefully consider their specific needs and circumstances when deciding between obtaining a state ID or a driver's license. If driving is not a requirement, a state ID can be a convenient form of identification for everyday purposes. However, those who plan to drive will need to obtain a driver's license, which may also serve as identification for various activities.
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Documents required for a state ID
As an international student in the US, it is not mandatory to obtain a state ID card. However, it is recommended, as it is a convenient form of identification that can be used when performing transactions at banks, boarding domestic flights, or proving your age when travelling within the US.
The documents required to obtain a state ID card vary across different states. Here is a list of commonly requested documents:
- Proof of identification and age: This can be your international passport or birth certificate.
- Proof of residency in the state: Documents containing your full name and address, such as bank statements, cell phone bills, rental lease agreements, or tuition bills.
- Proof of legal US presence: Original copy of your US visa, 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 proof of SSN, while 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.
- Proof of name change (if applicable): If you have changed your name, you may need to provide documentation showing the complete chain of names since birth.
It is important to check with your specific state's requirements, as some states may have additional or different documentation needs. The cost of obtaining a state ID card can vary between \$10 and \$90, depending on the state.
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State ID cost
International students in the US are not required to obtain a state ID card. Most international students use their passport as their primary form of identification. However, obtaining a state ID card can be useful for several reasons. A state ID card can be used as a primary identification document, allowing you to leave your passport safely at home. It is accepted as a valid form of ID when performing transactions at banks and boarding domestic flights within the US. Additionally, it can be helpful for proving your age when travelling domestically, shopping at grocery stores, or visiting nightclubs or bars.
The cost of a state ID card varies depending on the state you reside in. Generally, the cost can range anywhere between $10 and $90. Some states may offer reduced fees or waive the fee entirely for individuals who are 62 or older and receive supplemental security income or for individuals of any age who receive public assistance. To be eligible for a reduced fee, you will need to provide proof of your eligibility, such as official notices or benefit verification letters.
When applying for a state ID card, you will typically need to present documents that prove your identification, age, residency in the state, and legal US presence. This can include your international passport, bank statements, cell phone bills, rental lease agreements, tuition bills, visa documents, Form I-20 or DS-2019 (for F1 and J1 students, respectively), and your I-94 travel record. Additionally, some states may require you to provide proof of your Social Security number, while others may require a letter of SSN ineligibility if you do not have one.
It is worth noting that the Real ID version of a state ID card, which is federally compliant and marked by a star symbol, may require additional documents proving your residency in the state. This option may be preferable for international students who intend to use their state ID card for domestic air travel or entering federal facilities, as it complies with the Real ID Act mandated by the US Department of Homeland Security.
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State ID application process
International students in the US are not required to obtain a state ID card, and many use their passports as their primary form of identification. However, obtaining a state ID card is recommended as it is more convenient to carry around than a passport, and it can be used as a valid form of ID when performing transactions at banks or boarding domestic flights. Additionally, it may be useful in situations where proof of age is required, such as when shopping at a grocery store or going to a nightclub.
The process for applying for a state ID card varies slightly depending on the state, but there are some general steps that are common across most states. Firstly, it is recommended to gather the required documents, which typically include proof of identification, age, residency, and legal US presence. For proof of identification and age, an international passport can be used. For proof of residency, documents such as bank statements, cell phone bills, rental lease agreements, or tuition bills that contain the applicant's full name and address in the state are acceptable. To prove legal US presence, an original copy of the visa, Form I-20 (for F1 students) or DS-2019 (for J1 students), and the I-94 travel record are required. It is important to note that some states may also require a Social Security Number or a letter of SSN ineligibility from the local social security administration office.
Once the necessary documents have been gathered, the next step is to complete the application form and pay the associated fee, which can range from $10 to $90 depending on the state. In some states, such as California, there is an option to apply online before visiting a DMV field office to complete the process in person. After submitting the application, a temporary state ID in paper form will be provided, and the plastic ID card will typically arrive in the mail within a couple of weeks. When applying, individuals have the option to obtain either a Real ID state ID or a standard state ID. The Real ID version is federally compliant and can be identified by a star symbol in the top right corner. It is important to note that the Real ID version may require additional documents proving residency in the state.
The state ID card is a valuable form of identification for international students in the US, providing convenience and security. While it is not mandatory, obtaining one can enhance an individual's experience by making everyday transactions and travel within the US more accessible and efficient.
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Frequently asked questions
International students do not need a state ID but it is useful to have one. It is a good idea to get a state ID so you don't have to carry your passport around with you all the time.
A state ID is used primarily as an identification document and is accepted as proof of address. It is issued by the state government of your resident state.
A state ID is useful for proving your identity and address in your state of residence. It can be used when boarding a plane, buying alcohol, or performing a transaction at a bank.
To apply for a state ID, you will need to present documents that prove your residency in the state, such as bank statements, cell phone bills, a rental lease agreement, or a tuition bill. You will also need to prove your legal US presence with an original copy of your US visa.
