Ibrahim Gardner
International students in the US are required to apply for a state ID card, which is used as a primary identification document and proof of address. This is different from a visa, which is issued by the US government and allows the holder to study in the country for a specified period. A state ID is issued by the state government and is necessary for boarding a plane, getting a job, or using other state-run services. The process of applying for a state ID involves scheduling an appointment, providing the required documents, completing the application, and waiting for the ID to arrive. The cost of a state ID varies between $10 and $90 depending on the state. International students must also decide between obtaining a Real ID state ID or a standard state ID, with the former being the only acceptable form of state ID for domestic flights and federal buildings from May 7, 2025.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Confirming your address and identity |
| Documents required | International passport, proof of residency, proof of legal US presence, proof of social security number (not required for some US states) |
| Proof of residency documents | Bank statements, cell phone bills, rental lease agreement, tuition bill, letter from the post office, credit card statement, checking or savings bank statement |
| Proof of legal US presence documents | Original copy of US visa, signed form I-20 (for F1 students) or DS-2019 (for J1 students), I-94 travel record |
| Cost | Between $10 and $90 depending on the state |
| Application process | Download an application form or schedule an office appointment, get your photograph and fingerprints taken, and provide a written signature |
| Additional information | A state ID is not a valid form of federal identification and cannot be used for 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 US can benefit from obtaining a state ID card for several reasons. Here are some key advantages:
Convenience and Safety
A state ID card is a convenient and safe form of identification for international students. It can be easily carried in a wallet, serving as a primary identification document. This allows students to leave their passports, which contain important visas, safe at home. No longer will international students need to carry around their passports, reducing the risk of loss or theft.
Age Verification
State IDs are widely accepted as proof of age when travelling domestically within the US, shopping at grocery stores, or visiting nightclubs and bars. International students can conveniently use their state ID to verify their age without needing to present their passport or other forms of identification.
Accepted at Banks and Airports
Unlike school ID cards, state IDs are accepted as valid identification when performing transactions at banks and boarding domestic flights in the US. International students can use their state ID as a secure and widely recognised form of identification in these contexts, enhancing their ease of travel and financial transactions.
Cost-Effectiveness
The cost of a state ID varies across states, typically ranging from $10 to $90. This makes it a relatively affordable form of identification, especially considering its wide acceptance and convenience.
Federally Compliant Option
When applying, international students have the option to obtain a Real ID version, which is federally compliant. This type of ID will be mandatory for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings from May 7, 2025. By obtaining this ID, international students can ensure they meet future identification requirements and won't face issues when travelling or accessing federal services.
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Documents required for the application
International students in the US are required to apply for a state ID card. This card serves as a photo identification document and proof of address, which is necessary when using other services provided by state agencies. Although it is similar in appearance to a US driver's license, a state ID does not permit you to drive, get insurance, or get a job. However, it does allow you to board a plane, be employed in certain occupations, and receive certain federal benefits.
- Proof of your social security number: While this is not required in some US states, it may be necessary in others.
- Proof of identification and age: Your international passport is the best document for this.
- Proof of residency in the state: You can use 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: This can include your original visa, a signed Form I-20 (for F1 students) or DS-2019 (for J1 students), and your I-94 travel record. Additionally, some states require that you have at least six months left on your immigration document (DS-2019, I-797, I-20, etc.) to be eligible for a state ID.
- Two documents to prove state residency: This may include tax records, lease agreements, mortgage documents, W-2 Forms, current weapons permits, or current utility bills.
- Other documents: In some cases, you may need a Social Security Card (SSN), receipt notice, or Social Security Rejection Letter. If you do not have a US Social Security Number, you may need to obtain a letter of SSN ineligibility from your local social security administration office before applying for a state ID.
It is important to note that the requirements and procedures for obtaining a state ID may vary slightly depending on the state and the specific circumstances of the applicant. Therefore, it is always a good idea to check with the relevant authorities or your college's international student adviser to ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Where to apply for a state ID
International students can apply for a state ID at their local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. To find out which DMV location handles ID applications, visit the state's official website or call the state's DMV directly. It is important to make an appointment as soon as possible, as DMV locations are often busy with long waiting times.
In most states, international students will need to show documents that prove their social security number. However, there are 13 states that do not require a social security number to apply for a state ID: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, New Mexico, New York, Utah, Vermont, and Washington. If you live in a state that requires a social security number, you can obtain a letter of SSN ineligibility from your local social security administration office.
In addition to proof of your social security number, you will need to provide the following documents when applying for a state ID:
- International passport as proof of identification and age
- Proof of residency in the state, such as bank statements, cell phone bills, rental lease agreements, or tuition bills
- Proof of legal US presence, such as a visa or signed Form I-20 (for F1 students) or DS-2019 (for J1 students)
The cost of a state ID varies depending on the state, ranging from $10 to $90.
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Differences between a state ID and a driver's license
As an international student in the US, it is advisable to obtain a state ID card. This can be used as a primary form of identification and can be helpful when travelling, shopping, or going out, as well as being accepted by banks. However, it does not permit the holder to drive.
When applying for a state ID, you will have the option of choosing a standard state ID or a Real ID state ID. A Real ID complies with higher federal security standards and is marked with a star symbol in the top right corner. From May 7th, 2025, only a Real ID will be accepted for boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building.
A driver's license, on the other hand, permits an individual to legally operate a motor vehicle. A standard driver's license will not allow access through TSA at an airport from May 2025. A Real ID-compliant driver's license can be used for identification and for driving. The process of obtaining a Real ID driver's license is similar to that of a state ID, requiring proof of identity, social security number, and residency.
The key difference between a state ID and a driver's license is that the latter permits driving, while the former does not. A state ID is a form of identification that can be used for various purposes, including boarding domestic flights, but it does not allow the holder to drive. A driver's license, especially a Real ID-compliant one, can be used for identification and driving, making it a more versatile form of ID.
It is worth noting that the requirements and processes may vary depending on the state and the individual's circumstances. International students should refer to their state's guidelines and ensure they have the necessary documentation, such as proof of identity, social security number (if required), residency, and legal presence in the US.
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How to use a state ID
A state ID is a handy document for international students to have as a primary form of identification. It can be used when travelling domestically within the US, when shopping at grocery stores, or when entering nightclubs or bars. State IDs are also accepted when performing transactions at banks and when boarding domestic flights in the US.
When applying for a state ID, you will be given the option to obtain a Real ID state ID or a standard state ID. A Real ID is federally compliant and will be the only acceptable form of state ID for boarding US domestic flights or entering US federal buildings from 7 May 2025. To obtain a Real ID, you will need to present two different types of documents proving your residence in the state, such as bank statements, cell phone bills, a rental lease agreement, or a tuition bill showing your address in the state.
After obtaining your state ID, you can use it as a form of identification for various purposes. When travelling, you can use it at airport security and when boarding a domestic flight. You can also use it as a form of ID when performing transactions at banks or when entering establishments that require proof of age, such as bars and nightclubs.
It is important to note that a state ID does not permit driving. If you plan to drive, you will need to obtain a separate driver's license. Additionally, ensure that your address is updated with the Secretary of State's office to receive your permanent state ID. By law, address changes must be reported within 10 days.
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Frequently asked questions
A state ID is used primarily as an identification document, but it is also accepted as proof of address. It is more convenient to carry around than a passport and is accepted when performing a transaction at a bank, boarding an airplane for a domestic flight, buying alcohol, or entering a nightclub or bar.
Generally across most states, you would need documents that prove your social security number, identification, age, residency, and legal US presence. However, the specific requirements vary depending on the state. For example, in Ohio, you need to provide a document with your current Ohio street address, whereas in Pennsylvania, you need to provide two documents that prove Pennsylvania residency.
It is best to use your international passport.
You can use documents containing your full name such as bank statements, cell phone bills, a rental lease agreement, or a tuition bill that shows your address in the state.
Choose a DMV location that will issue your state ID and schedule an appointment. Bring all the required documents to the DMV and complete the application. Wait for your state ID to arrive in the mail.
