Janice Lozano
International students in the United States who want to drive will need to apply for a driver's license from the state in which they reside. The application process varies from state to state, so it is important to understand the specific requirements of your state before applying. Generally, international students will need to provide ID verification, proof of address, and immigration forms, as well as pass a driving test and a written test. Obtaining a driver's license as an international student in the US can open up new opportunities and improve prospects for social life and travel.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Student status | F and M students, and their dependents, may be eligible to drive a motor vehicle while residing in the United States |
| Application process | Apply at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) |
| Waiting period | Wait at least 10 days after arriving in the US for your Form I-94 "Arrival/Departure Record" to update in all government systems |
| Documents | Original copies of Form I-20, valid passport, most recent student visa, proof of residence, Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), and other immigration forms |
| Tests | May need to pass a driving and written test, unless a foreign driver's license is recognized and can be transferred to a state document |
| License receipt | May receive the license immediately or wait several weeks, depending on the state |
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What You'll Learn
Eligibility requirements for international students
International students can drive a motor vehicle while residing in the United States, but they must successfully apply for and receive a driver's license. The eligibility requirements for international students to obtain a driver's license in the United States vary from state to state. Here are the general eligibility requirements and necessary documents:
Eligibility Requirements
- It is mandatory to wait for at least 10 days after arriving in the US before applying for a driver's license. This is to ensure that your Form I-94, “Arrival/Departure Record,” indicating F-1 nonimmigrant status, has time to update in all the government systems.
- Your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record must be active.
- You must be able to prove that you are an international student living in the United States.
- You must be at least 25 years old.
- You must have driven at least 50 hours, with 10 of those being at night.
Necessary Documents
- All signed versions of your Form I-20, which shows your eligibility for a driver’s license as a nonimmigrant student.
- A valid passport and copies of your current student visa for ID verification.
- Form I-94, which shows your travel history.
- Proof of residence, such as a rental agreement, bank statement, or utility bill with the same name and address.
- Social Security Number (SSN) or a denial letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
- Enrollment Verification Letter from the Office of Records and Registration (if required by your state).
- Driver’s license from your home country or another state (some states may accept this instead of requiring you to take written and driving tests).
Please note that the requirements and necessary documents may vary depending on the state and specific circumstances. It is always recommended to contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or your designated school official (DSO) for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Necessary documents
International students must carry out certain procedures to obtain a driver's license in the United States. The application process for a driver's license may differ across states, and some states may accept licenses from certain foreign countries. However, the basic steps are quite similar. Here is a list of necessary documents:
Valid Passport and Student Visa
A valid passport and your most recent student visa are required for identity verification. If you are from a visa-exempt country, such as Canada or Bermuda, you may not need to provide a visa. Simply providing your passport is usually sufficient, as the DMV officer will make any necessary photocopies.
Form I-20
All signed versions of Form I-20, also known as the "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status," are required. This form demonstrates your eligibility for a driver's license based on your status as a nonimmigrant student.
Form I-94
Form I-94, also known as the "Arrival/Departure Record," is obtained from the US Customs Office and displays your travel history. If you have recently arrived in the United States, wait at least 10 days after entering the country before applying for a driver's license to allow your Form I-94 information to update in all government systems.
Proof of Residence
Since each state issues its driver's licenses, you must provide proof of residence in the state where you are applying for the license. Accepted documents may include a rental agreement, bank statement, paycheck stub, current unexpired license or ID, vehicle registration, auto insurance card, or utility bill with the same name and address.
Social Security Number (SSN) or Denial Letter
Some states may require a Social Security Number (SSN). If you are ineligible for an SSN, you can obtain a denial letter, also known as a Letter of Ineligibility, from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Enrollment Verification
If you are on Optional Practical Training (OPT), bring your Employment Authorization Document (EAD card) or Form I-766. Additionally, your state may require an Enrollment Verification Letter from the Office of Records and Registration.
It is important to note that the requirements may vary by state, so it is recommended to contact your local DMV or seek guidance from a designated school official (DSO) or campus advisor to understand the specific documents needed for your application.
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Proof of residence
International students in the United States who want to drive will need to apply for a driver's license from the state in which they reside. While the application process may differ from state to state, there are some common requirements. One of these is proof of residence, which varies depending on the state.
In Pennsylvania, for example, if you do not have any bills in your name, you will need to bring two proofs of residency. One option is to bring a person with whom you reside and their driver's license or photo ID to the Driver License Center. They will need to sign an affidavit confirming that you live with them. You will also need to provide a second proof of residency, such as official mail (e.g. a bank statement, tax notice, or magazine) with your name and address on it. The address on the mail must match that of the person with whom you reside.
In other states, examples of accepted documents for proof of residence include a rental agreement, bank statement, paycheck stub, current unexpired license or ID, vehicle registration, auto insurance card, or utility bill with the same name and address.
It is important to contact your local DMV office to learn the specific requirements for international students in your state. While most states follow similar rules and regulations, there can be significant differences.
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Tests and evaluations
The tests and evaluations you will need to pass to get a driver's license as an international student vary depending on the country or state you are in. For example, in the United States, international students will need to go to their local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and provide original copies of certain documents, such as a valid passport, student visa, and proof of residence. Some states may also require a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
After submitting the necessary documents, you will need to pass a written test and a driving test. The written test will cover local driving laws, road rules, signs, and procedures relating to accidents and other emergency situations. The driving test will involve taking a short drive with an instructor and following their directions. You will typically have three attempts to pass the test, and each attempt must be scheduled at least two weeks apart.
In some states, if you already have a license from your home country or another state, you may not be required to take the written and driving tests. However, not all states accept driver's licenses from other countries. Additionally, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is not considered a valid driver's license in most US states, so international students will likely still need to obtain a local license.
It is important to note that the requirements and processes for obtaining a driver's license may vary from state to state, so it is always best to check with your local DMV or the relevant government websites to get the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Waiting times and temporary licenses
The waiting times and temporary licenses for international students obtaining a driver's license in the US vary depending on the state. In California, for example, wait times can vary, and it is recommended to block out a few hours when booking a written test. One student reported waiting for an hour before their appointment. After passing the written test, you will receive an interim driver's license, and you can schedule your behind-the-wheel test whenever you're ready.
In some states, the DMV may issue a temporary license on the same day you apply for a driver's license, allowing you to drive until your official driver's license card arrives in the mail within a couple of weeks. However, it is important to note that each state has different requirements for obtaining a driver's license, and some states may only issue temporary licenses to nonimmigrants.
Before visiting the DMV, it is recommended to check their website or app, as some provide information about the current wait times. Additionally, international students should ensure they have all the required documentation, such as proof of residency, Form I-20, and a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), as this will streamline the process. It is also worth noting that some states accept foreign licenses, while others do not, and an international driving permit (IDP) is typically only valid for a temporary period.
Overall, while the specific waiting times and temporary license procedures vary by state, international students can expect to receive their official driver's license within a few weeks of obtaining their temporary license by following the necessary steps and providing the required documentation.
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Frequently asked questions
The documents you need to get a driver's license as an international student vary from state to state. However, some common documents are:
- A valid passport and your most recent student visa
- Form I-94
- Proof of residence
- Social Security Number (SSN) or a denial letter
- Enrollment Verification Letter
The steps to get a driver's license as an international student are as follows:
- Check with your Designated School Official (DSO) to gather local driving license information.
- Make sure your information has been uploaded to the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
- Wait for approximately two weeks before applying for a license.
- Apply with a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- Call your local DMV and make a list of all the required documents.
- Schedule your driver's license tests.
It depends on your previous driving experience and the state you are applying in. If you have a driver's license from your home country or another state, you may not be required to take the tests. However, some states may still require you to take a written and driving test.
