Ibrahim Gardner
International students can obtain a New Jersey driver's license, but there are several steps and requirements to be aware of. Firstly, students must reside in New Jersey to be eligible for a local driver's license, and they must apply for the license within 60 days of establishing residency in the state. The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) is responsible for issuing driver's licenses, and applicants must pass a 6-point ID verification system. This typically includes documents such as a Social Security Card or Letter of Ineligibility, a passport with a visa stamp, and proof of previous driving experience or completion of a Graduated Driver License (GDL) program. International students should carefully review the specific requirements and guidelines provided by the New Jersey MVC to ensure they have the necessary documentation and meet all the qualifications before applying for their New Jersey driver's license.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who can apply? | International students, scholars, and their families in New Jersey |
| Where to apply? | Any Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) office |
| Documents required | Social Security Card (if eligible), passport, visa stamp, original I-20 (F-1/F-2) or DS-2019 (J-1/J-2), proof of enrolment, foreign license (if applicable) |
| Additional requirements | Six-point ID verification, road test (if applicable), graduated driver license (GDL) program (if no proof of previous driving experience) |
| Processing time | Not specified; may vary depending on the individual's circumstances |
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What You'll Learn
Required documents for international students
International students looking to obtain a New Jersey driver's license need to be aware of the specific documentation requirements. Firstly, it is important to note that you must obtain a New Jersey driver's license if you reside in the state and wish to drive a vehicle. International students can apply for a New Jersey driver's license at any Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) office, and it is recommended to make an appointment beforehand.
The MVC uses a 6-point ID verification system, where each document is assigned a point value, and the total must be at least six points. Here are the required documents for international students to meet this requirement:
- A valid passport is essential and can serve as a primary form of identification.
- If eligible, a Social Security Card is required. If you are not eligible, you must obtain a "Letter of Ineligibility" from the Social Security Administration.
- Original I-20 (F-1/F-2) or DS-2019 (J-1/J-2) form. An electronically signed and printed I-20 form is also accepted due to COVID-19-related guidance.
- Student ID and proof of enrollment, such as a recent acceptance letter or official transcript.
- If you have a foreign driver's license, it is recommended to bring it, although it is not mandatory. If your license is in a language other than English, a translation is required.
- If you have an International Driving Permit (IDP), it can be useful, but it is not a substitute for a U.S. driver's license.
It is important to note that the documents must be original or certified copies, and you may need to provide additional proof of identity or residency if required by the MVC.
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Transferring an out-of-country license
If you are an international student in New Jersey and have a foreign driver's license, you can transfer it for a standard New Jersey license. Here is what you need to know about transferring an out-of-country license:
Required Documents
Firstly, you must ensure that you have the required documents. The State of New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) uses a 6-point ID verification system. This includes a Social Security Number (SSN) if you are eligible for one. If you are not eligible, you will need a "Letter of Ineligibility" from the Social Security Administration.
Other documents you will need include:
- Your foreign license
- A passport with a visa stamp or approval letter for a change of status
- Proof of residency in New Jersey (e.g., utility bills, bank statements)
- Original immigration documents to verify your status and duration of stay
All documents must be original or certified copies.
Road Test
You will be required to pass a road test to demonstrate your safe driving skills and knowledge of New Jersey road rules. An appointment is necessary, and the DMV recommends practicing for about 3-6 months beforehand. The test typically lasts 10 to 15 minutes.
Written Knowledge Test
In addition to the road test, you will need to pass a written knowledge test. This exam will cover core driving rules and traffic signs in New Jersey. There are 50 questions, and you must answer at least 40 correctly to pass with a score of 80%. If English is not your first language, the test is offered in other languages, including French, Spanish, and Korean.
Timeline
New residents in New Jersey have a 60-day timeline to transfer their out-of-state or out-of-country license. It is best to complete the transfer as soon as possible to avoid any potential issues or fines.
Vehicle Registration
If you have a vehicle, you will also need to register it in New Jersey within 60 days of moving to the state. Before registering, you must obtain New Jersey liability insurance.
International Driving Permit
It is important to note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is not the same as a U.S. driver's license. If you plan to drive before obtaining your New Jersey license, you should obtain an IDP in your country of residence, along with a valid driver's license from your home country. With these, you can drive in New Jersey for up to one year before needing to obtain a local license.
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Social Security Number requirements
International students in New Jersey must obtain a New Jersey driver's license to drive in the state. The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) uses a 6-point ID verification system, which requires applicants to prove their identity through a combination of documents. One of the documents required is a Social Security Number (SSN).
If you are eligible for an SSN, you should obtain this before going to the DMV. To be eligible for an SSN, you must have on-campus or off-campus employment. If you do not have employment and are therefore ineligible for an SSN, you will need to request a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming that they cannot provide you with an SSN.
Alternatively, you may be required to complete the DMV's Affidavit of No Social Security form. If you are transferring an out-of-country license, you may need to present your foreign license with a translation and an Apostille or a notarial certificate.
It is important to note that each state has its own driving rules and regulations, and you should familiarize yourself with the laws of the state in which you are driving.
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The 6-point ID verification system
International students can obtain a driver's license from the state in which they reside. The State of New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) uses a 6-point ID verification system for applicants applying for or renewing a New Jersey driver's license or non-driver ID card. This system requires applicants to prove their identity through a required combination of documents.
Additionally, you will need to bring a copy of your NJIT Form I-20 to the DMV. This Form I-20 must indicate that you are a "continuing student" on page 1. If you are a new student, your Form I-20 will indicate you are an "initial student". You will need to obtain an updated copy of your Form I-20 after your first semester has begun.
Other documents you should bring when applying for a New Jersey driver's license include your passport, student ID, proof of enrolment (recent acceptance letter or official transcript), and your foreign license (if you have one).
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Scheduling a road test
International students in New Jersey can obtain a driver's license by applying at a Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) office. The MVC closest to Montclair State University is in Wayne: Wayne Regional Service Center, 1578 Route 23 North, Wayne, NJ 07470.
To schedule a road test, you must first ensure you have the necessary documents. These include:
- A valid passport
- Student ID and proof of enrollment (recent acceptance letter or official transcript)
- Social Security Card (if eligible) or a "Letter of Ineligibility"
- Original I-20 (F-1/F-2) or DS-2019 (J-1/J-2)
- Foreign license (if you have one)
If you are unable to provide proof of previous driving experience, you must complete the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program, which introduces driving privileges in phases. This requires passing various tests. If you are under 21 years old or have never had a driver's license, you must complete a period of supervised driving before obtaining a basic driver's license.
Once you have gathered the necessary documents, you can schedule a road test by contacting the MVC or DMV. You can reach the DMV by calling 1-888-486-3339.
It is important to note that each state has its own driving rules and regulations. A New Jersey driver's license will permit you to drive in all other U.S. states, but it is your responsibility to know and obey the laws of the state in which you are driving.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a valid passport, a Social Security Card (or a "Letter of Ineligibility"), and a visa stamp in your passport. If you have a foreign license, you do not need to surrender it, but you may need to complete a Graduated Driver License (GDL) program if you cannot show proof of previous driving experience.
You can apply for a New Jersey driver's license at any Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) office. You will need to pass the 6-point ID verification system, which requires a combination of documents that total at least 6 points. You may also need to take a written and/or road test.
You must obtain a New Jersey driver's license within 60 days of residing in the state.
