Ibrahim Gardner
International students on a visa can obtain a California ID card or driver's license from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The ID card is for identification purposes only, while the driver's license allows individuals to drive in the state. The process for obtaining a California ID involves providing proof of identity, proof of California residency, and completing an application form. International students may experience a longer wait time of up to a year for the permanent license due to the DMV's verification process with the Immigration Service.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who can apply | International students on an F-1 visa |
| Application form | DL 44 |
| Application mode | Online or in-person at a DMV location |
| Required documents | I-20, I-94 card, passport, two documents proving California residency |
| Additional documents for J-1 scholars | Social Security Card, letter from international student advisor confirming address and full-time enrollment |
| Additional documents for REAL ID | Social Security Number |
| Time taken for issuance | Up to one year |
| Validity | Six years |
| Renewal | Required upon extension of program |
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What You'll Learn
- International students need a valid passport, I-94 card, and I-20 or DS-2019 form
- You must prove California residency with two documents, such as utility bills
- Complete the DL 44 form, available online or at any DMV location
- Pay the application fee and pass the written test to get an interim license
- International students may wait up to a year for a permanent license due to immigration status verification
International students need a valid passport, I-94 card, and I-20 or DS-2019 form
International students intending to drive in the US must obtain a California driver's license. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) also provides ID cards for individuals of all ages, which can be used for identification purposes only.
To obtain a California ID card, international students need a valid passport, an I-94 card, and an I-20 or DS-2019 form. The I-94 card is an arrival/departure record that serves as proof of legal visitor status in the US. It can be obtained electronically through the CBP GO mobile app or the CBP I-94 website. Alternatively, a paper form can be printed from the I-94 website or requested during the inspection process. The I-20 or DS-2019 form, also known as the "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status", is provided by the designated school official upon acceptance into an SEVP-certified school. This form is crucial for F and M nonimmigrant visa applications and must be signed by both the student and the DSO.
When applying for a California ID card, international students should bring their I-20 or DS-2019 form, I-94 card, and passport to their appointment with the DMV. Additionally, they must complete the DL 44 application form and pay the corresponding fee. It is important to note that the I-20 or DS-2019 form must be valid and not expire within 60 days of the application.
Obtaining a California driver's license as an international student may take up to a year due to the DMV's requirement to verify the student's immigration status with the Immigration Service. During this waiting period, students can continue using their temporary license until the permanent one arrives.
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You must prove California residency with two documents, such as utility bills
To get a California ID as an international student, you must prove your California residency with two documents that include your first and last name and mailing address. This can include a mortgage bill, home utility bill, cell phone bill, vehicle registration card, or bank statement.
The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) issues ID cards to persons of any age, and there is no need to complete a knowledge or vision test. The ID card is similar to a driver's license but is used for identification purposes only. A regular ID card is valid for six years.
If you are obtaining a REAL ID, you may be asked for a US Social Security Number. If you are working on campus or off-campus, you should already have an SSN. If you do not have an SSN, you are not eligible for one. You can make an appointment with ISS to request a full-time status letter explaining that you are not currently eligible for an SSN per federal regulations.
- Rental or lease agreement with the signature of the owner/landlord and the tenant/resident
- Court documents that list the applicant as a resident of California
- Letter from a homeless shelter, shelter for abused women, non-profit entity, faith-based organization, employer, or government agency within the US attesting that the applicant resides in California
- A document issued by a US government agency
- California Certificate of Title or registration (vehicle or vessel)
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Complete the DL 44 form, available online or at any DMV location
The DL 44 form is an essential step in the process of obtaining a California ID as an international student. This form can be completed electronically or on paper. To obtain a physical copy, you can either visit any DMV location or request to receive it by mail by calling the DMV automated mail service at 1-800-777-0133.
The DL 44 form is quite simple to fill out, but it is important to be thorough and accurate to avoid any issues with your application. The form will require you to provide personal information, such as your social security number (if eligible), physical description, and residency information. You will also need to disclose any medical conditions that could impair your driving abilities.
One unique aspect of the DL 44 form is its focus on health and safety. In addition to medical disclosures, the form includes certifications related to legal and safety commitments. For example, by signing the form, you are consenting to chemical testing and acknowledging the severe consequences of driving under the influence. This form also serves as a platform for voter registration and organ donation.
It is worth noting that the DL 44 form is subject to change over time. Therefore, it is crucial to use the most up-to-date version of the form provided by the California DMV. Additionally, there is a fee associated with submitting the DL 44 form, which is currently $33.
Completing the DL 44 form is a fundamental step in the process of obtaining a California ID as an international student. By gathering the necessary information and carefully filling out the form, you will be one step closer to receiving your California ID.
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Pay the application fee and pass the written test to get an interim license
To obtain a California ID card, international students must complete the relevant application form and pay the associated fee. This can be done online or in person at any DMV location. International students on an F-1 visa who intend to drive in the US must obtain a California driver's license.
The written test, also known as the driver knowledge test, consists of 36 multiple-choice questions based on the California Driver's Handbook. A passing score is 80%. The DMV provides free practice tests to help you prepare for the written test. You have three chances to pass the test.
Once you have passed the written test, you will be issued an interim driving license. This interim license is valid for 60 days and allows you to practice driving with your home country driving license. During this interim period, you can prepare for your driving test, which you must pass to obtain a permanent California driver's license.
It is important to note that international students applying for a California driver's license may experience a longer waiting period of up to one year to receive their permanent license. This delay is due to the DMV's requirement to verify the student's immigration status with the Immigration Service before issuing the license.
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International students may wait up to a year for a permanent license due to immigration status verification
International students on a visa can obtain a California driver's license or state ID card from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The DMV issues ID cards to persons of any age, which are valid for six years. These ID cards are similar to driver's licenses but are used for identification purposes only.
International students applying for a California driver's license may experience delays of up to a year in receiving their permanent license due to immigration status verification. The DMV is required to verify the immigration status of international students with the Immigration Service before issuing a permanent license. This process can take time, and if students have not received their license after 60 days, they are advised to contact the Sacramento DMV and request that they solicit verification from the Immigration Service again.
To expedite the process, students can provide the DMV with a copy of their passport, I-94 card, temporary driver's license, and phone number. They should also continue to renew their temporary license until the permanent one arrives. It is important to note that international students with F-1 visas who intend to drive in the US must obtain a California driver's license.
To apply for a California driver's license or state ID card, international students must complete the Driver License or Identification Card Application (DL 44) form, which can be done electronically or through hard copies. They must also provide their I-20, I-94 card, passport, and proof of California residency. Additionally, students can make an online appointment with the DMV for faster service.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a valid passport, I-94 document, I-20 (F1) or DS-2019 (J1), and at least two documents proving California residency.
Proof of residency can include utility bills, a letter from your international student advisor, or a rental or lease agreement.
If you are obtaining a REAL ID, you may be asked for a US Social Security Number. If you are working on campus or off campus, you should already have an SSN. If you do not have one, you are not eligible for an SSN.
You can complete the Driver License or Identification Card Application (DL 44) Form electronically or get a hard copy at any DMV location. Make an appointment online for faster service.
International students applying for a California ID may have to wait up to one year to receive a permanent ID, as the DMV must verify the student's immigration status with the Immigration Service.
