Douglas Olsen
International students in New Jersey who want to obtain a driver's license must apply to the State of New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC). The MVC requires a 6-point ID verification system, which includes a Social Security Number (SSN) or a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming ineligibility for an SSN, as well as a copy of Form I-20, indicating the applicant is a continuing student. International students must also provide proof of previous driving experience or complete the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program, which includes a vision test, a knowledge test, and possibly a road test.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who can obtain a driver's license? | International students, scholars, and their families in New Jersey |
| Where to apply? | Any Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) office in New Jersey |
| Documents required | Original I-20 (F-1/F-2) or DS-2019 (J-1/J-2), Social Security Number (SSN) or Form SSA-L676, passport, I-94, letter from the OIS, Student ID, proof of enrollment, etc. |
| Other requirements | Pass vision, knowledge, and road tests; complete the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program if no proof of previous driving experience |
| Additional information | International Driving Permit and a valid driver's license from the home country may be required to drive before obtaining a U.S. driver's license |
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What You'll Learn
- International students need to apply for a New Jersey driver's license within 60 days of arriving in the state
- A Social Security Number (SSN) is required, or a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming ineligibility
- A road test waiver cannot be guaranteed when transferring a license from another country
- Students must pass a vision, knowledge and road test
- Students will need to provide proof of enrolment, such as a recent acceptance letter or official transcript
International students need to apply for a New Jersey driver's license within 60 days of arriving in the state
International students in New Jersey need to obtain a valid New Jersey driver's license within 60 days of arriving in the state. The State of New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission issues driver licenses, and there are several steps that international students need to follow to obtain one.
Firstly, it is important to note that international students can only obtain a driver's license from the state in which they reside. Before applying for a New Jersey driver's license, students should check the specific requirements and regulations, as each state has its own driving rules.
To apply for a New Jersey driver's license, international students must provide various identification documents. These typically include the original I-20 (F-1/F-2) or DS-2019 (J-1/J-2) form, a Social Security Number (SSN), and proof of enrollment, such as a recent acceptance letter or official transcript. If the student is employed and qualifies for an SSN, they should obtain this before visiting the DMV. For those who are not eligible for an SSN, a letter from the Social Security Administration, called Form SSA-L676, is required, along with the NJIT Form I-20 indicating "continuing student" status.
Additionally, international students may need to complete the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program if they cannot show proof of previous driving experience. This program introduces driving privileges in phases and requires the completion of various tests, including a vision test, a knowledge test, and possibly a road test. Obtaining a driver's license in New Jersey may also involve scheduling a road test or applying for a road test waiver by presenting a license from another country. However, a road test waiver cannot be guaranteed, and the decision rests with the Licensing Center representatives.
It is recommended that international students make an appointment at the Motor Vehicle Commission office to initiate the process of obtaining their New Jersey driver's license. The MVC office closest to Princeton is Bakers Basin (#13 on the map), located at Motor Vehicle Commission Bakers Basin, 3200 Brunswick Pike, Route 1 North Lawrenceville, NJ 08648. Staying informed about the latest requirements and regulations is essential, and up-to-date information can be found on the official New Jersey MVC website.
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A Social Security Number (SSN) is required, or a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming ineligibility
To obtain a driver's license as an international student in New Jersey, you must meet the eligibility criteria for a Social Security Number (SSN). The SSN is issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and is one of the documents required by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) for obtaining a driver's license.
If you are eligible for an SSN, you should obtain this before visiting the DMV. To be eligible for an SSN as an international student, you must meet certain requirements set by the SSA. These typically include authorized employment, a specific job offer or benefit eligibility, and valid immigration status. For instance, F-1 students who are employed on-campus or have been approved for off-campus employment under CPT or OPT are generally eligible to apply for an SSN. In such cases, you will need to provide relevant employment authorization documents along with your SSN application.
However, if you do not have employment and are therefore ineligible for an SSN, you must still obtain a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming their inability to provide you with an SSN. This letter is called Form SSA-L676. It serves as proof of your ineligibility for an SSN and is a crucial step in the process of obtaining your driver's license.
To obtain Form SSA-L676, you will need to visit the local Social Security Office and provide documentation that proves your identity, immigration status, and authorization to be in the US. This typically includes your passport, Form I-20, and a letter from your university's international student office stating that you are in good standing. Once you have Form SSA-L676, you can proceed to the next steps in obtaining your driver's license.
It is important to note that the requirements for obtaining a driver's license as an international student may vary, so it is always best to consult with the SSA or seek specific guidance based on your individual circumstances.
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A road test waiver cannot be guaranteed when transferring a license from another country
International students can obtain a driver's license in the state in which they reside. Each state has its own driving rules and regulations. In New Jersey, the Motor Vehicle Commission issues driver's licenses. To obtain a New Jersey driver's license, you must follow the 6-Point ID verification system. This requires a Social Security Number (SSN) or a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming that you cannot be given an SSN (Form SSA-L676). Additionally, you will need a copy of your Form I-20, which must indicate that you are a "continuing student".
If you are transferring your license from another country, a road test waiver cannot be guaranteed. Licensing Center representatives have the authority to verify and grant a road test waiver based on a full review of the documents provided. If a road test waiver cannot be granted, you will need to schedule a road test. This typically lasts 10-15 minutes and, if failed, requires a waiting period of at least two weeks before retaking.
While a road test waiver is not guaranteed, there are certain circumstances under which the road test may be waived. If you have a valid International Driving Permit and a valid driver's license from your country of origin, you may be able to drive before obtaining a U.S. driver's license. Additionally, New Jersey has reciprocity agreements with certain countries, allowing applicants aged 18 or older to skip some testing steps when applying for a non-commercial (Class D) driver's license. To qualify, you must show a valid foreign license with a translation, proof of identity, proof of New Jersey residency, proof of your Social Security Number, and verification of lawful presence in the U.S. for at least 12 months.
If you are unable to obtain a road test waiver, you may need to complete the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program, which introduces driving privileges in phases. This program is required if you cannot show proof of previous driving experience or if you are under 21 years old. After obtaining a permit, you may need to pass a vision test, a knowledge test, and a road test.
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Students must pass a vision, knowledge and road test
To obtain a driver's license, international students in New Jersey must pass a vision, knowledge, and road test. Here is a detailed breakdown of each test:
Vision Test
The State of New Jersey requires all first-time driving permit applicants to undergo a vision test to check their eyesight. This test can be taken at motor vehicle agencies offering driver testing services. To pass, you must have a visual acuity of 20/50, either with or without corrective lenses. If you require corrective lenses to pass the test, your license will include a restriction stating that you must wear them while driving. If you fail the vision test, you will need to consult your doctor and complete Form ST-14, which can be obtained from any motor vehicle agency with testing facilities.
Knowledge Test
The knowledge test assesses your understanding of driving rules and regulations. Before taking the test, you must purchase an examination permit and make an appointment. The written test is offered in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, Mandarin, Arabic, and more. Oral tests are also available in English and Spanish. If you require an interpreter for the test, the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) can provide one, given sufficient notice. The test can be taken at a driver testing center, and you will need to present your 6 Points of ID.
Road Test
The road test evaluates your practical driving skills and understanding of safe driving rules. To be eligible for the road test, you must have successfully completed the vision and knowledge tests and fulfilled the supervised driving practice requirements. For those under 21, this means practicing supervised driving for at least 6 months, while for those over 21, the requirement is 3 months. When taking the road test, you must bring a valid examination permit, ensure your vehicle meets the requirements, and be accompanied by a licensed New Jersey driver aged 21 or older. The road test can be scheduled online or at a driver testing center, and a Safety Specialist will accompany you during the test.
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Students will need to provide proof of enrolment, such as a recent acceptance letter or official transcript
To obtain a driver's license as an international student in New Jersey, you must provide proof of enrolment at your educational institution. This can be done by presenting a recent acceptance letter or an official transcript. The document must indicate that you are a "continuing student". If you are a new student, your documentation will indicate that you are an "initial student". In this case, you will need to wait until after your first semester to obtain an updated copy of your documentation.
The State of New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJ MVC) issues driver's licenses and uses a 6-point ID verification system. One of the documents required is a Social Security Number (SSN). If you are eligible for an SSN, you should obtain one before going to the DMV. If you are not eligible for an SSN, you will need to obtain a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming their inability to provide you with an SSN. This letter is identified as Form SSA-L676.
In addition to proof of enrolment, you will need to provide a copy of your Form I-20, which must indicate your student status. You will also need to present a valid passport, I-94 form, and visa documentation corresponding with your non-immigrant status. Proof of address, such as bills or a bank statement, may also be required.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a Social Security Number (SSN) if you are eligible for one, or a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you cannot get an SSN. You will also need a copy of your Form I-20, passport, I-94, and a letter from your university's Office of International Services (OIS) stating that you are in good standing at the university.
You can apply for a New Jersey driver's license at any Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) office.
If you can show proof of previous driving experience, you may be granted a road test waiver. If not, you will need to complete the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program, which includes a period of supervised driving and a driving skills test.
You will need to make an appointment for an initial permit and bring your foreign license and other identification materials. After obtaining the permit, you will need to make another appointment for a knowledge test. Once you have passed the eye exam and knowledge test, you will be issued a New Jersey driver's license.
Yes, international students can only obtain a driver's license in the state in which they reside. Additionally, each state has its own driving rules and regulations, so be sure to familiarize yourself with the laws of the state in which you are driving.
