Douglas Olsen
International students can obtain a US driver's license, but the process varies across states. Before applying, students must wait at least 10 days after arriving in the US to ensure their information is updated in government systems. The application process involves submitting documents to the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), including a passport, visa, proof of residence, and a Social Security Number or form stating ineligibility. Some states require a license from the student's home country, while others mandate a written and driving test. An International Driving Permit (IDP) may also be necessary, depending on the state.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who can apply? | International students on F-1, M-1, or J-1 visas can obtain a USA driving license in the state where they reside during their studies. |
| When to apply? | International students must wait at least 10 days before applying for a U.S. driver’s license, to ensure that their information can update in all the government systems. |
| Where to apply? | Local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) |
| Documents required | - Visa: Your most recent U.S. visa, if applicable |
| - Form I-20: Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status (F-1/M-1) or Exchange Visitor Status (J-1) | |
| - Proof of residence: Documents such as utility bills, bank statements, lease agreements, or official mail addressed to you at your U.S. address | |
| - Social Security Number (SSN): If you have one. If not, some states may require a letter of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration | |
| - Passport | |
| - Form I-94 | |
| - Form SSA-L676 (if applicable) | |
| - Form I-766 (if on Optional Practical Training) | |
| Tests | May need to pass both a driving and written test. |
| Other requirements | - Must be at least 16 years old (this varies depending on the state) |
| - Must have an active Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record |
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What You'll Learn
Eligibility and requirements
International students on F-1, M-1, or J-1 visas can obtain a US driving license in the state where they reside during their studies. However, the eligibility criteria and requirements for getting a driving license vary across states. Therefore, it is advisable to check the specific requirements of your state. Here are some general eligibility criteria and requirements that apply in most states:
Eligibility:
- International students on F-1, M-1, or J-1 visas are generally eligible for a US driving license.
- Your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record must be active before applying for a driver's license.
- Your DSO can help clarify your eligibility and guide you through the process.
Requirements:
- Wait at least 10 days after arriving in the US before applying to ensure your information is updated in all government systems.
- Submit required documents, including your passport, recent student visa, Form I-94, Form I-20, and proof of residence.
- Some states may require a Social Security Number (SSN) or a letter of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration.
- You may need to pass both a written and a driving test, unless your state accepts foreign driver's licenses and you already have one.
- Contact your local DMV office to confirm their specific requirements and application process.
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Necessary documents
International students can obtain a US driving license in the state where they reside during their studies. The process of obtaining a license varies across states, so it is important to check the specific requirements for your state. Here is a list of documents that you may need to submit:
- Passport and Visa: A valid passport and your most recent student visa. If you are from a visa-exempt country, such as Canada or Bermuda, you do not need to provide a visa.
- Form I-20: All signed versions of Form I-20, also known as the "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status." This form confirms your eligibility for a driver's license as a non-immigrant student. Some states may require you to have at least six months left on your I-20 form to be eligible.
- Proof of Residence: Documents such as utility bills, bank statements, lease agreements, or official mail addressed to you at your US address. This requirement varies from state to state, so check with your local DMV to understand what is needed.
- Social Security Number (SSN): Your Social Security Number, if you have one. If you do not have an SSN, some states may require a letter of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration.
- Form I-94: Form I-94, also known as the "Arrival/Departure Record," is obtained from the US Customs Office and shows your travel history.
- Form DL-1/93 and Form SSA-L676: These forms may be required, depending on your specific situation.
- International Driving Permit (IDP): An IDP is not required in all states, but it can be useful if you plan to rent a car or drive in multiple states. The IDP is an official translation of your foreign driver's license and is recognized in many countries. Check with each state's department of motor vehicles to see if they require an IDP.
Before applying for your driver's license, ensure that your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record is active, and confirm that your designated school official (DSO) has no concerns about your eligibility. Additionally, wait at least 10 days after arriving in the US to apply, allowing your information to update across all government systems.
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Written and driving tests
The requirements for driving tests vary across different states in the US. In some states, if you have a driving license from your home country or another state, you may not be required to take the tests. However, not all states accept international driving licenses. For example, California does not recognize an International Driving Permit (IDP) as a valid license.
If you are required to take the tests, you will first need to take a written test on your state's driving rules. For example, in California, the written test is a 46-question multiple-choice test. You will need to pay a fee (around $75) and take an eye test when you apply for your learner's permit. Once you pass the written test, you will receive a learner's permit, which allows you to practice driving with a licensed driver accompanying you.
After passing the written test and obtaining your learner's permit, you can schedule a road test or behind-the-wheel test. In New York, it can take up to a month to get an appointment for the road test. You can practice driving with a coach or instructor before taking the road test. Some states, like California, allow for three attempts at the road test, with each attempt scheduled at least two weeks apart and with a small retest fee.
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Application process
The application process for a US driver's license as an international student varies slightly between states. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply:
Firstly, you must wait at least 10 days after arriving in the US before applying for a driver's license. This is because your information needs to update in all government systems, including your Form I-94, “Arrival/Departure Record”. If you apply too early, your application may be delayed or denied.
Before you begin the application process, it is recommended that you talk to your Designated School Official (DSO) or campus advisor. They can advise you on the specific requirements of your state, guide you towards the information you need, and support you through the process.
Once you have waited the required amount of time, you can begin your application. You will need to visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in person, so locate the nearest office and check the transportation options. Some schools may provide transportation to the DMV office.
When you apply, you will need to bring various original documents, including:
- All signed versions of your Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status”
- A valid passport and your most recent student visa (unless you are from a visa-exempt country)
- Proof of residence, such as utility bills, bank statements, lease agreements, or official mail addressed to you at your US address
- Your Social Security Number or form SSA-L676 stating your ineligibility from the Social Security Administration
- Your DL-1/93 and Form I-766 (if applicable)
Please note that any documents not in English will require a USCIS-certified translation to meet DMV standards.
After a successful application, a DMV official will explain the next steps for attaining your driver's license. This may include taking a written and driving test, although some states may waive this requirement if you already have a license from another country or state. Depending on your state, you may receive your license immediately or you may have to wait several weeks.
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Waiting period
The waiting period for getting a driving license in the USA as an international student can vary depending on several factors. Here are the key points to consider:
Firstly, it is recommended to wait at least 10 days after arriving in the United States before applying for a driver's license. This allows time for your Form I-94 "Arrival/Departure Record" information to update across all government systems, ensuring your application process goes smoothly.
State-Specific Requirements
The requirements and waiting times for obtaining a driver's license vary from state to state. Some states may have longer processing times, while others may require additional documentation or tests, which can impact the overall waiting period. Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to understand their specific requirements and timelines.
Verification and Documentation
Before submitting your application, ensure that all your documents are in order and consistent. Inconsistent information can cause delays in the application process. Verify that your name and date of birth are spelled correctly and match across all documents. Also, confirm that your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record is active.
DMV Wait Times
The waiting time at your local DMV office can vary. Consider visiting the DMV a few minutes before they open to avoid long lines. Some DMVs provide wait times on their websites or apps, allowing you to plan your visit accordingly.
Temporary Licenses
After a successful application, a DMV official will explain the next steps. In some cases, non-immigrants may only receive temporary licenses initially. The timing of receiving your permanent driver's license can depend on the state and their processing times.
It's important to note that the waiting period for obtaining a driver's license as an international student in the USA can be influenced by various factors. By following the recommended steps and staying informed about state-specific requirements, you can help ensure a smoother and more efficient process.
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Frequently asked questions
The requirements vary from state to state, but some common requirements include:
- A valid passport and your most recent student visa
- Proof of residence
- Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status"
- Social Security Number (SSN) or form SSA-L676 stating your ineligibility from the Social Security Administration
- Your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record must be active
You can apply for a driving license at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office.
The time it takes to get a driving license can vary depending on the state. In some cases, you may receive your license immediately, while in other cases, it may take several weeks.
