Ibrahim Gardner
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 process varies slightly from state to state, there are some common requirements. This article will outline the necessary documents and procedures for international students seeking a driver's permit, specifically focusing on the requirements of the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| State | Texas |
| Who should apply? | International students who will be in the U.S. for longer than 30 days and plan to drive a car |
| Where to apply? | Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) |
| Application form | Form DL-14A |
| Application fee | $16 |
| Required documents | Proof of identity (passport, birth certificate), Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), proof of residency, proof of U.S. citizenship, verification of enrollment and attendance form, proof of insurance, proof of vehicle registration, certificate of completion of an adult driver's ed course, proof of passing the online permit exam |
| Other requirements | Must be 15 years or older, must have a parent or legal guardian present during the appointment, must have held a permit for at least six months before applying for a license, must pass a vision test and a written exam |
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What You'll Learn
Required documents
International students applying for a driver's license in the United States need to be aware of the specific requirements of the state in which they reside. While processes differ across states, there are some common documents that international students will need to bring to the DPS when applying for a permit.
Firstly, students will need to provide proof of identity in the form of a passport or birth certificate. If using a name other than that on your birth certificate, additional documents such as a marriage license or court-ordered name change may be required. Secondly, students will need to provide proof of their Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). While not all states require an SSN, it is a common document requested by the DMV.
Thirdly, students will need to prove their residency in the state. Accepted documents may include a utility bill or lease agreement. In addition, students will need to provide their passport and copies of their current student visa. A Proof of Enrollment Letter from the school may also be required. For those under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present at the appointment and provide proof of vehicle registration and insurance. Finally, students will need to bring their certificate of completion of a driver's education course or proof of passing the online permit exam.
It is important to check the specific requirements of the state in which the international student resides, as processes and required documents may vary.
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Identification
International students applying for a driver's license in the United States need to be aware of the specific requirements of the state in which they reside. While there are differences from state to state, there are some common requirements. Firstly, international students cannot legally drive in most US states with an international driving license or an International Driving Permit (IDP). Thus, it is necessary to apply for a state driver's license.
International students must provide proof of identification as part of the driver's license application process. Accepted forms of identification vary but generally include:
- Passport
- Birth certificate
- Marriage license
- Divorce decree
- Court-ordered name change
- Social Security card
- Official documentation showing Social Security Number
- Documentation showing proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a U.S. passport or birth certificate
- Proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement
- Verification of enrollment and attendance form, or a high school diploma or GED if schooling is complete
It is important to note that some states may have additional or alternative identification requirements, so it is essential to check the specific requirements of the state in which you are applying.
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$10.99
Vehicle registration and insurance
International students who want to drive in the United States need to apply for a driver's license from the state in which they reside. While the process varies slightly from state to state, there are some common requirements.
When applying for a driver's license, international students must provide proof of vehicle registration and insurance. This is required for each vehicle owned by the applicant. It is acceptable if the insurance is under someone else's name. If an applicant does not own a car, they simply need to indicate this on the application form.
In Texas, for example, international students taking the driving test must bring a road-ready vehicle with two license plates (front and back), current registration and inspection stickers, and proof of insurance. The parent or guardian of the applicant must show that they legally own and insure their vehicle. If they do not own a vehicle, they can sign a statement declaring this.
Other Requirements
In addition to proof of vehicle registration and insurance, international students must provide the following:
- Proof of identity: Documents such as a birth certificate or passport.
- Proof of Social Security Number (SSN): A Social Security card or other official documentation.
- Proof of residence: Documents such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
- Proof of enrollment: A letter from the student's educational institution confirming their enrollment.
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Permit and exam certificates
International students who want to drive in the United States will need to apply for a driver's license from the state that they reside in. While there are slight differences from state to state, many of the requirements are outlined by federal regulations.
In most US states, students cannot legally drive with an international driving license or an International Driving Permit (IDP). Thus, it is important to apply for a state driver's license and follow the processes outlined by local DMV offices.
In the state of Texas, international students can obtain a Texas Driver's License at the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). Before visiting the DPS office, students must meet certain qualifications, such as completing a state-approved driver education class for applicants under 18. They must also fill out the TX DPS Application (Form DL-14A), which is required for teens and new drivers.
On the day of the appointment, students must bring their documents, proof of identity, and any other important items. This includes a passport and copies of their current student visa as proof of ID. They will also need to provide proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement. If the student is under 18, a parent or legal guardian must accompany them to the appointment.
It is worth noting that students can take their permit exam online through certain platforms, and a certificate of completion can be presented when applying for a learner's permit. This certificate confirms that the student has met the testing requirements and eliminates the need for an in-person test.
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Applicable fees
International students in the United States who plan to drive a car should obtain a state driver's license. The processes and requirements for obtaining a driver's license vary by state, so it is important to review the specific requirements outlined by the relevant Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or Department of Public Safety (DPS) office.
Regarding fees, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, there is usually an application fee that must be paid when applying for a driver's license or permit. This fee may vary depending on the state and the type of license or permit being applied for. For example, in Texas, there is a $33 driver's license fee. It is always a good idea to check with the official DPS website or office to confirm the current fee structure.
In addition to the application fee, international students may also need to consider the costs associated with obtaining the necessary documentation. For instance, students may need to provide proof of identity, such as a passport, and proof of residence, such as a utility bill or apartment lease. Obtaining or replacing these documents may incur additional fees.
Furthermore, students may need to complete certain educational requirements, such as a driver's education course or a mandatory video course, prior to applying for their license. These courses may be associated with fees or other costs, such as the cost of materials or certification.
Another cost to consider is the potential need for a vehicle during the driving test. At the DPS in Texas, applicants must provide their own vehicle for the driving test, which must have two license plates (front and back), current registration and inspection stickers, as well as proof of insurance. If an applicant does not have access to a vehicle that meets these requirements, they may need to rent or borrow one, which could incur additional costs.
Lastly, there may be additional fees for services such as expedited processing or the replacement of a lost or damaged license or permit. It is important for international students to be aware of these potential fees and plan their budget accordingly when applying for a driver's license or permit in the United States.
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Frequently asked questions
International students need to bring their passport, current student visa, and proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement. They may also need to provide their Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
International students should check with their Designated School Official to gather local driving license information. They should also make sure that their information has been uploaded to the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
Students need to bring proof of identity, such as a birth certificate or passport, and proof of insurance. They may also need to bring a parent or legal guardian and proof that they have completed a driver's education course.
