Savanna Hoffman
International students applying for a driver's license in the United States must first understand the specific requirements of their state, as these vary. Generally, international students must wait at least 10 days after arrival for their immigration information to update before applying for a license. When applying, students must submit original copies of specific documents, including ID verification, proof of address, and immigration forms. While requirements differ across states, common documents include a valid passport, a student visa, Form I-94, proof of residence, and a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some states may also require an SSN card or Form W-2 Wage and Tax Statement, while others may accept alternative forms of identification.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Student visa status | F1, J1, and M1 |
| Documents | Valid passport, most recent student visa, proof of residence, Social Security Number (SSN) or proof of ineligibility, Form I-20, Form I-94, DL-1/93, Form I-766, Enrollment Verification Letter, EAD card |
| Additional requirements | Vision test, knowledge test, road test, fee payment |
| Waiting period | Wait at least 10-14 days after arrival before applying |
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What You'll Learn
Wait for your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record to activate
The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is a web-based information system that maintains and monitors records of SEVP-certified schools, F-1 and M-1 nonimmigrant students and their dependents, exchange visitor program sponsors, and J-1 exchange visitors and their dependents. It is managed by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), a program within U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
SEVIS was created in response to the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996, which directed the development of an electronic system to collect information on F, M, and J nonimmigrants to address the issue of those who remain in the country without authorization. After the September 11, 2001 attacks, Congress mandated the use of an electronic system to collect information on all F, M, and J nonimmigrants, leading to the deployment of SEVIS in January 2003.
SEVIS plays a critical role in protecting national security while facilitating the legal entry of F, M, and J nonimmigrants to the United States for educational and cultural exchange purposes. It enables SEVP to ensure proper reporting and record-keeping by schools and exchange visitor programs, maintaining data currency and integrity. Additionally, SEVIS helps identify status violators, allowing for appropriate enforcement actions such as denial of admission, denial of benefits, or removal from the country.
As an international student, it is essential to ensure that your SEVIS record is activated before you can obtain your driver's license. This process may vary depending on your specific situation and the requirements of your state. In general, you will need to allow some time for your SEVIS record to activate after enrolling at a U.S. school as an F-1 or M-1 nonimmigrant student. During this time, your information will be captured and processed by SEVP, ensuring that your record is accurate and up-to-date.
While waiting for your SEVIS record to activate, you can gather the other required documents for obtaining your driver's license. These may include proof of identity, proof of residency, and any necessary application forms or fees. It is recommended to check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office or the equivalent agency in your state to determine the specific requirements and ensure you have all the necessary documentation ready. Once your SEVIS record is activated and you have assembled all the required documents, you can proceed with the driver's license application process.
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Form I-20
The Form I-20 is issued by a Designated School Official (DSO) at the school you plan to attend. It is important to note that you must receive this form before paying the mandatory I-901 Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) Fee. The information on the Form I-20, such as your name, address, date of birth, country of citizenship, and SEVIS Identification Number, is essential for completing the fee payment process.
As an international student, you will typically receive the Form I-20 upon acceptance into your program. However, there are circumstances in which you may receive an updated or new Form I-20 from your DSO:
- Misplacement or damage: If the original physical copy of your Form I-20 is lost or damaged, you can request a new one from your DSO.
- Travel endorsement: When travelling abroad, it is important to have a valid travel endorsement on your Form I-20. This endorsement is valid for one year and allows for multiple visits outside the United States.
- Changes in SEVIS status: If your SEVIS status changes, such as transitioning from "Initial" to "Active", your DSO will provide you with an updated Form I-20.
- Alterations to student information: Any significant changes to your personal information, program of study, or practical training details will result in a new Form I-20 being issued.
It is important to keep your Form I-20 safe and up to date, as it plays a crucial role in maintaining your student status and re-entering the United States. Additionally, when applying for a driver's license, having your Form I-20 endorsed for OPT or STEM OPT, along with your Form I-797 Notice of Action, can serve as proof of your legal status in the U.S.
While the specific requirements for obtaining a driver's license may vary slightly from state to state, possessing a valid Form I-20 is generally essential for international students. This form, along with other documents such as your passport, visa, and Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), will help establish your eligibility for a driver's license in the United States.
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Proof of residence
As an international student, you must provide proof of residence when applying for a driver's license in the United States. This is because each state has its own set of requirements for driver's licenses, and you must demonstrate that you are a resident of the state where you are applying.
The documents accepted as proof of residence vary from state to state, so it is essential to check the specific requirements of your state. Some common documents that may be accepted as proof of residence include:
- Rental agreement or lease
- Bank statement
- Paycheck stub
- Current, unexpired license or ID
- Vehicle registration
- Auto insurance card
- Utility bill with the same name and address
- Tuition bill
It is important to note that these documents must contain your full name and a residential address located in the state where you are applying for your driver's license.
In addition to proof of residence, other documents that may be required when applying for a driver's license as an international student include a valid passport, your most recent student visa, Form I-20, and a Social Security Number (SSN) or proof of SSN ineligibility.
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Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
To obtain a driver's license as an international student in the United States, you must first apply for a driver's license in the state in which you reside. While the specific rules vary from state to state, there are some common requirements and procedures that you should be aware of.
One important document that you may need to provide is your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). This requirement differs depending on the state. Currently, there are twelve states that do not require an SSN for obtaining a driver's license: California, Colorado, Delaware, Connecticut, New York, Utah, New Mexico, Maryland, Illinois, Vermont, Washington, and Hawaii. If you reside in one of these states, you can obtain a driver's license without providing your SSN. However, if you live in a state that requires an SSN, you may be able to obtain a driver's license by presenting a social security number letter of ineligibility or Form SSA-L676, "Refusal to Process SSN Application." This form indicates that you are not eligible for a Social Security Number.
It is important to note that the requirements for obtaining a driver's license as an international student extend beyond providing your SSN or ITIN. You will also need to provide proof of your identity, residency, and student status. Additionally, you may be required to pass a driving test and a written test, although this may be waived if you already hold a driver's license from your home country or another state.
To ensure that you have the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is recommended to contact your local DMV office or seek advice from your campus advisor. They will be able to provide you with specific requirements and guidance on obtaining your driver's license as an international student in your particular state.
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Valid passport and student visa
International students intending to drive in the United States need to apply for a driver's license from the state in which they reside. While the specific rules vary from state to state, there are some common requirements. One of the most important documents you will need when applying for a driver's license as an international student is a valid passport and your most recent student visa.
Firstly, you must possess a valid passport. The passport serves as primary proof of your identity and citizenship status. It is essential to ensure that your passport is up-to-date and valid for the duration of your stay in the country. This is because an expired passport may create complications with your legal status as a student and your ability to obtain a driver's license.
Secondly, you must hold a current student visa that corresponds with your passport. The student visa confirms your legal status as an international student in the country. It is crucial to ensure that your student visa is valid and has not expired. In the United States, F1/F2 visa holders are typically eligible for a driver's license during their stay in the country.
It is important to note that the requirements for obtaining a driver's license may differ depending on the state in which you reside. Therefore, it is recommended to contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office to understand the specific requirements and gather all the necessary documents before initiating the application process.
In addition to your valid passport and student visa, you may also need to provide proof of residence or an SSN card, depending on the requirements of your state. Remember to allow sufficient time, usually around 10 days, after your arrival in the country before applying for your driver's license to ensure that your information, such as your Form I-94 "Arrival/Departure Record," is updated in all the relevant government systems.
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Frequently asked questions
The documents you need to get a driver's license as an international student in the US vary from state to state. However, some common documents include:
- A valid passport and your most recent student visa
- Form I-20, which shows your eligibility for a driver's license as a nonimmigrant student
- Proof of residence, such as a rental agreement or bank statement
- Social Security Number (SSN) or a denial letter
- Enrollment verification letter
It is recommended that you wait for at least 10-14 days after arriving in the US before applying for a driver's license. This is because it can take up to 10 working days for your information to update in the government systems.
You should apply for a driver's license at your local DMV office.
