Janice Lozano
International students can obtain a driver's license in the United States, but the process varies depending on the state. Generally, international students must wait at least 10 days after arriving in the US before applying for a driver's license to ensure their information is updated in all government systems. The next step is to visit the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and submit the required documents, which typically include a signed Form I-20, a valid passport, a student visa, and proof of residence. Some states may also require a Social Security Number (SSN) or a denial letter from the Social Security Administration. After a successful application, a DMV official will explain the next steps, which may include passing a driving and written test. However, some states may waive the testing requirements if the applicant already has a driver's license from their home country or another state. Overall, while obtaining a driver's license as an international student in the US can be challenging, it is achievable with the correct paperwork and guidance.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who can apply for a driving license? | International students |
| Where to apply? | Local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) |
| Documents required | Original copies of passport and student visa |
| Other requirements | Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record must be active |
| Time taken | Up to 10 working days for immigration systems to update international student information |
| Other considerations | Each state has different requirements for obtaining a driver's license |
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What You'll Learn
Check with your Designated School Official
International students wanting to drive in the United States will need to apply for a driver's license in the state in which they reside. It is recommended that students wait at least 10–14 days after their arrival before applying for a driver's license, as it can take up to 10 working days for immigration systems to update international student information.
To get your international driver's license in the USA, you will need to prove that you are an international student living in the country. Before applying for a driver's license in any state, it is important to contact the local DMV office nearest to you to learn what requirements exist for international students. While most states follow similar rules and regulations regarding international driving licenses, there can be significant differences as well. For example, some states may require a Letter of Ineligibility, or denial letter, from the Social Security Administration (SSA) stating that you are not eligible for a Social Security card. The DMV may also need to verify your nonimmigrant student status to determine if you are eligible for a driver's license.
Different states and territories have specific driver's license requirements, and your Designated School Official should be up to date on any new developments you should be aware of. They can advise you on which documents you will need to apply for your international driver's permit. When you apply for a driver's license at your local DMV, make sure to bring original copies of the required documents, which may include a valid passport and your most recent student visa. After a successful application process, a DMV official will explain the next steps for obtaining your driver's license. It is normal for some nonimmigrants to only get temporary licenses. If approved, you may receive the license immediately or wait several weeks, depending on the state.
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Make sure your SEVIS record is in Active status
To obtain a driver's license as an international student, you must apply for one at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Before applying, it is important to ensure that your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record is in Active status. Here are some detailed instructions to help you achieve that:
Firstly, understand what SEVIS is and why it is important. SEVIS is a system that tracks and monitors non-immigrant students and exchange visitors in the United States. It is crucial because it helps maintain your student status, which is essential for obtaining a driver's license.
Secondly, verify your SEVIS record status. You can do this by checking the upper right corner of your SEVIS record. If your status is not Active, don't panic. Terminations are typically for very exceptional situations, and you can take steps to correct your status.
If your SEVIS record is not in Active status, you can request a correction. A designated school official (DSO) can submit a correction request to change the status. This process may vary depending on the reason for the termination. For example, if your record is in Terminated status due to an Authorized Early Withdrawal, you may need to submit a reinstatement request. Remember that the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) must approve most status changes.
When submitting a correction request, ensure you provide the required information. This includes updating the necessary fields for the record status change and providing any supporting documentation. A valid email address is required, and you may also need to provide a physical address and update the Program Begin Date and End Date.
Finally, keep in mind that there are time constraints for correcting your SEVIS status. If your record is Invalid, you can use the Correct SEVIS Status functionality to change it to Active within 30 days of the status change. After submitting a reinstatement request, you may cancel it and submit a correction request if needed, but only until the Department of State starts reviewing the request.
By following these steps, you can ensure your SEVIS record is in Active status, which is an important step in the process of obtaining a driver's license as an international student. Remember to also familiarize yourself with the specific requirements of your state, as they may vary.
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Wait 10 days after arriving in the US
International students can obtain a US driving licence, but it is important to follow the correct procedure. The process for applying for a driving licence can vary from state to state, so it is always best to check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) first.
One of the key steps in the process is to wait at least 10 days after arriving in the US before applying for a driver's licence. This is because it can take time for your records to update. Your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record must be active before you can apply for a licence. It can take up to 10 days for your status to update in SEVIS, and a further two business days for local systems to update with your Active status. Being patient and applying at least two weeks after your arrival will help you get your international driver’s permit with ease and avoid your application being rejected.
The DMV may need to verify your nonimmigrant student status to determine if you are eligible for a licence. To verify your status, the DMV may use the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) Program.
In addition to waiting 10 days, there are several other steps you should take to obtain a US driving licence as an international student. Firstly, you should reach out to your campus or Shorelight advisor to learn which documents you will need to apply. Different states and territories have specific driver's licence requirements, and advisors are usually up to date on any new developments. To get your international driver's licence in the USA, you will need to prove that you are an international student living in the United States. This may include providing a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status (F-1/M-1) or Exchange Visitor Status (J-1), proof of residence, and your Social Security Number (SSN) if you have one. If you do not have an SSN, some states may require a letter of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration.
You should also talk to your designated school official (DSO) about driving rules and regulations in your state or territory and confirm that your student record is Active in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. If you are on optional practical training, bring your Form I-766, “Employment Authorization Document.” The DMV will use the A number on this card to verify your status. 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 make sure you both have all your required documents.
Finally, you may need to pass a driving and written test, depending on your state and whether you have a licence from your home country or another state.
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Gather required documents
International students looking to obtain a driver's license in the United States must apply for one at their local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The specific documents required may vary across states, so it is advisable to contact the local DMV office to ascertain the exact requirements. Generally, however, the following documents are typically necessary:
- A valid passport
- Your most recent student visa
- Proof of your international student status in the United States, such as an active Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record
- A Letter of Ineligibility, or denial letter, from the Social Security Administration (SSA), stating your ineligibility for a Social Security card
It is important to note that your student visa information may take up to 10 working days to update in the immigration systems. Therefore, it is recommended to wait for at least 10–14 days after your arrival before initiating the application process for your driver's license.
Additionally, some states may have specific requirements, such as a mandatory waiting period for obtaining a state ID or a minimum number of hours of driving experience. It is always best to consult with your campus advisor or a Shorelight advisor to stay informed about any unique state-specific requirements.
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Schedule your driving and written tests
To schedule your driving and written tests, you must first check with your Designated School Official and gather local driving license information. You should also make sure that your information has been uploaded to the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and that your SEVIS record is in Active status. After waiting approximately two weeks for your I-94 immigration information to become visible in the DMV systems, you can apply with a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Once these preliminary steps have been completed, you can call your local DMV to schedule your tests. Make sure to have a list of all the required documents before calling.
When scheduling your driving test, you will need to bring your learner's license or driver's license with a B restriction. If you have lost your license, one approved identity document is required. You will also need to bring the driving test fee or payment receipt if you have already paid. It is important to note that the payment is only good for 90 days, and the date of expiration is listed on the payment receipt. Additionally, you will need to ensure that your vehicle meets all safety requirements and does not have any unusual mechanical issues. No additional passengers will be allowed in the vehicle during the test. If you are considering using a rental vehicle for your test, make sure that the rental company permits it, and provide proof of liability insurance.
For the written test, you will need to demonstrate your knowledge of local driving laws, signs, and procedures related to accidents and other emergency situations. The written test will typically be scheduled on the same day as the driving test, but this may vary. The driving test will involve taking a short drive with an instructor and following their directions.
In New York State, there are specific requirements for scheduling your road test. If you are under the age of 18, you must wait at least six months from the date you received your learner's permit before scheduling your test. Tests are usually offered on weekdays, and the earliest date is typically within three to five weeks, but it can be up to ten weeks during peak testing periods. You will need to provide a Certification of Supervised Driving (MV-262) and ensure that you have an accompanying driver over the age of 18 or 21, depending on the situation. The vehicle used for the test must have valid registration, insurance, and inspection, operate properly, and be in clean condition.
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Frequently asked questions
The requirements vary from state to state, but some common requirements include: an active Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record, a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), a valid passport, and proof of residence.
You can apply for your driver's permit at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), which may be called something different in some states.
This depends on whether you already have a driver's license from your home country. If you do, you may not need to take a test. If you don't already have a license, you will likely need to take a written and practical test.
The time taken for the DMV to issue a driver's permit can vary depending on the state. Some DMVs may issue a temporary license on the day you apply, while the official license may take a week or two to arrive in the mail.
