Lori Meadows
International students in Chicago can obtain an Illinois driver's license, but there are several steps and requirements to be aware of. Firstly, a social security number is required for an Illinois driver's license, but not for a Temporary Visitor Driver's License (TVDL). International students may drive with a valid license from their home country for up to 90 days after their arrival in Illinois, but an International License is not considered valid in the state. To obtain an Illinois driver's license, applicants must meet eligibility requirements, complete any necessary exams, and provide the required documentation and applicable fees.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Driving with a foreign license | Valid for 90 days after arrival in Illinois |
| Using an "International License" | Not valid in the State of Illinois |
| Eligibility for Illinois Driver's License | Must be a legal resident of Illinois |
| Documents required | Confirmation of student status, F-1 visa, Social Security Number (SSN) or proof of ineligibility for SSN |
| Application process | Visit the DMV in person, complete vision and written exams, and a drive exam (unless you have completed a motorcycle course) |
| Renewal | $30 renewal fee, provide new Employment Authorization Document (EAD), proof of new mailing address, and expired license |
| Duplicate license | Free for victims of theft with a police report, otherwise, pay a fee |
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What You'll Learn
International students can get a driver's license in Illinois
To apply for a TVDL, visit the Social Security Administration and request a letter (Form L-676) stating that you are not eligible for an SSN. The Illinois Secretary of State website outlines the application requirements and steps for obtaining a TVDL. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security provides a fact sheet for individuals in F-1, J-1, or M-1 status, which can assist you in preparing the necessary documents.
If you're an F-1 visa holder, ISO (your host institution's office for international students) can provide a Letter of Confirmation of Student Status, which confirms your visa status and eligibility to apply for a driver's license. This letter is one of several required identification documents that you must present when applying for an Illinois driver's license.
Regardless of the type of license you're applying for, you'll need to meet certain requirements. First-time applicants must successfully complete a vision screening, a written exam, and a driving exam. There may be additional requirements for applicants under 21 years of age, such as completing a 6-hour adult driver education course through a certified provider.
It's important to note that your Illinois driver's license will expire on the day your program of study is completed. If you plan to continue your studies at another institution in Illinois, you may need to renew your license. If you're approved for Optional Practical Training (OPT), you can renew your license by visiting a Secretary of State facility and providing your Employment Authorization Document (EAD), proof of your new mailing address, and your expired license. A renewal fee of $30 applies.
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You need to be a legal resident of Illinois
As an international student in Chicago, you must be a legal resident of Illinois to get a driver's license. Illinois-issued ID cards are used to prove identity when performing tasks such as banking, travelling, or opening a bank account.
To be eligible for an Illinois driver's license, you must be at least 16 years old and have completed an approved driver education course. If you are between the ages of 18 and 20, you must also present proof of completion of a 6-hour adult driver education and training course.
If you are a non-citizen of the United States and a temporary resident in Illinois, you can apply for a Temporary Visitor Driver's License (TVDL). This license is for driving only and cannot be used as a form of identification. To be eligible for a TVDL, you must provide documentation that proves your name, date of birth, Illinois residency, and verification of your written signature.
If you are an Illinois resident without U.S. citizenship, you can apply for a standard driver's license or state ID. This license can be used as a form of identification to help with tasks such as filling prescriptions or applying for an apartment. To be eligible, you must have lived in Illinois for more than a year and provide a passport, consular card, proof of residency, and proof of insurance.
It is important to note that an "International License" is not valid in the State of Illinois.
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You need a confirmation letter from your college
As an international student, you will need a confirmation letter from your college to get a driver's license in Chicago. This letter is a crucial part of the application process and serves as verification of your student status. Here are the key points to keep in mind regarding this confirmation letter:
ISO (International Students Office or a similar department) should assist international students in obtaining this letter. They will typically write a Letter of Confirmation of Student Status, which confirms your F-1 visa holder status and eligibility for a driver's license. This letter is one of the essential identification documents required for your application.
The confirmation letter should include specific details about your student status and eligibility for a driver's license. It should state that you are a bona fide student, enrolled in a full-time course of study, and are legally present in the United States on a valid visa. The letter should also mention the expected completion date of your program or the date until which you are authorised to remain in the country.
When requesting the confirmation letter from your college, ensure that it is printed on official college letterhead. The letter should be signed by an authorised official, such as the dean, registrar, or a designated official from the international student office. Some states may require the letter to be notarised, so it's important to check the specific requirements for Illinois.
In addition to the confirmation letter, you will need to gather other required documents. These typically include your passport, visa, I-20 form, proof of residency, and any other identification documents specified by the Illinois Secretary of State's office. Remember to review the official website for a comprehensive list of requirements and eligible identification documents.
Obtaining a driver's license as an international student in Chicago involves several steps, and the confirmation letter from your college is a fundamental component. This letter ensures that you meet the eligibility criteria and provides essential verification of your student status. Remember to initiate this process as early as possible to allow sufficient time for any administrative tasks and appointments.
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You need to pass a vision, written, and drive exam
To get a driver's license in Chicago as an international student, you need to pass a vision, written, and driving exam. Here's what you need to know about each test:
Vision Exam:
The minimum visual acuity requirement for obtaining a driver's license in Chicago is 20/40 with or without corrective lenses. If your visual acuity is between 20/41 and 20/70, your license will be restricted to daylight driving only. In addition, you must have at least 140 degrees of peripheral vision to obtain a license without restrictions.
Written Test:
The official Illinois DMV written test consists of 35 questions, and you must answer at least 28 of them correctly (80%) to pass. The test covers essential road signs and rules, including topics such as speed limits, following distances, turning regulations, and sharing the road with bicyclists and pedestrians. You can find practice tests online that cover the material in the official Illinois Rules of the Road Manual to help you prepare for the written test.
Driving Exam:
The driving exam tests your practical driving skills and ability to follow traffic rules. During the test, you will be evaluated on tasks such as making turns, maintaining a safe distance, and navigating intersections. You will also be expected to demonstrate your knowledge of traffic laws and safe driving practices. It is important to familiarize yourself with the specific driving rules and regulations in Illinois before taking the driving exam.
Remember, obtaining a driver's license in Chicago requires passing all three components: the vision, written, and driving exams. Make sure you prepare thoroughly for each test to increase your chances of success.
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You can drive with a foreign license for 90 days
As an international student in Chicago, you can drive with a foreign driver's license for 90 days. This applies if you have a valid driver's license from your home country or state. After 90 days, if you plan on staying in Illinois, you will need to obtain an Illinois driver's license. An "International License" is not valid in the State of Illinois.
If you are an international student without a Social Security Number, you can apply for a Temporary Visitor's Driver's License (TVDL). This license is issued by the Illinois Secretary of State to those who are unable to obtain a Social Security Number. It is important to note that a TVDL cannot be used for identification purposes.
To be eligible for an Illinois driver's license, you must meet certain requirements. These include being at least 18 years old, completing a driver education course, and passing a driving test. You will need to apply in person at the DMV and provide the necessary documentation.
If you are planning to drive in Chicago, it is important to familiarize yourself with the local traffic rules and regulations. This includes understanding the road signs, speed limits, and any specific driving laws that may be unique to the state of Illinois. It is also important to remember that driving is a privilege and that you must always drive safely and responsibly.
In addition to a driver's license, there may be other requirements or considerations for driving in Chicago. For example, you may need to obtain insurance or register your vehicle with the appropriate authorities. By following the necessary steps and staying informed about the local driving laws and regulations, you can ensure that you are complying with all the necessary requirements for driving safely and legally in Chicago as an international student.
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Frequently asked questions
You may drive with a valid license from your home country for up to 90 days after your arrival.
To get an Illinois driver's license, you must be a legal resident of Illinois and have a Social Security Number. If you don't have an SSN, you can apply for a Temporary Visitor Driver's License (TVDL).
You will need a Letter of Confirmation of Student Status from your school confirming that you are a valid F-1 visa holder and are eligible to apply for a driver's license. You will also need to pass a vision screening, written exam, and driving exam.
You can apply in person at the DMV. The Bloomington DMV is located at 1510 W. Market St., Bloomington, IL 61701.
Your Illinois driver's license will expire the day your program of study is completed.
