How to get a Driver's Licence as an International Student in the USA?
Created: Dec 19, 2023 | Updated: Sep 26, 2024
Welcome to your guide on navigating the U.S. roads as an international student! If you're wondering, "Can international students get a driver’s licence in the USA?", you're in the right place. The answer is a resounding yes! Getting behind the wheel in a new country is all about the freedom and convenience you can access. This article will walk you through the journey of acquiring your U.S. driver's licence, highlighting the importance of getting certified translations for your documents. Let's get you ready for the road!
Steps to Obtain Your Driver’s Licence as an International Student in the USA
As a foreigner in a strange land, you may have some anxiety about getting a US driver’s licence, and for good reason because the authorities in the USA are strict about processes like this. However, many people have been successful before you, and you can be, too! We have collated the foolproof steps to getting your driver's licence in the USA.
- Get an International Driving Permit (IDP) Before Leaving Home: The ideal time to get an IDP is before you leave your home country. The IDP is essentially an official translation of foreign driver’s licence into several languages and is recognized in many countries worldwide. It's valid for one year from the date of issue and should be obtained while you still have a valid driver's licence from your home country. The IDP is typically issued by automobile associations or relevant road traffic authorities in your home country. It's not issued by embassies or consulates.
- Give it some time after you arrive in the USA: If you are going to the USA as a first-time student, wait at least 10 days before trying to get your licence. This ensures that all your information has been updated in all government systems to avoid a delay or denial of your application. While you wait, do the following:
- Your status in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is active.
- Your name is spelled correctly across all documents.
- Your date of birth is consistent across all documents
- Consult with Your Designated School Official (DSO): Before you dive into the process, have a chat with your DSO. They are like your academic guides but for immigration-related matters. Your DSO can offer invaluable advice on legal requirements and help you understand how your visa status might affect the licensing process. It's like having a mentor for this particular road trip.
- Locate the nearest DMV to you and confirm their requirements for your situation: The USA is a tapestry of varied rules and regulations, especially when it comes to driving. Each state has its unique set of requirements for international students seeking a driver’s licence. So, make your first stop at the website of your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). It’s the treasure trove of all the information you’ll need.
- Gather Your Identification Documents: This step is akin to packing for a trip. You need to gather original copies of your passport, student visa, and any other identification forms required by your state DMV. Your DSO can help you confirm that you have all the right documents before you head out, to avoid wasting your time at the DMV.
- Prepare for the Tests: Just as you would for an important class presentation, you need to prepare for both the written knowledge test and the driving skills test. The written test covers road signs and traffic laws, while the driving test assesses your ability to safely operate a vehicle. The next normal question on your mind should be “How long does it take to get a driver's licence?” Well, the process of getting your driver's licence can take between a few days to a few weeks, sometimes, it can be handed to you, immediately.
Required Documentation to get an International Student Driver’s Licence in the USA
- Bring your foreign driver’s licence if you have one. But note that it needs a certified English translation it is a non-English licence.
- Show proof of legal presence. This includes your passport, student visa, DL-1/93, form I-94, and I-20 form, proving your legal status and identity in the USA.
- Provide your Social Security Number or form SSA-L676 stating your ineligibility from the Social Security Administration.
- Provide proof of residency with simple documents like a utility bill or bank statement confirming your address in the USA.
- Form I-766 — If you are on Optional Practical Training (OPT), the DMV will use the A number in your Employment Authorization Document to verify your status.
- Dependents on F-2, M-2, or J-2 Visas: Must visit the DMV with their primary F-1, M-1, or J-1 visa holder, carrying all necessary documents.
- Any of the above documents that are not in English will require USCIS-certified translation, to ensure all foreign documents meet DMV standards.
You can get your driver’s licence at any of the following DMV’s depending on where you are located in the USA:
| University | Nearest Local DMV |
| Adelphi University | New York Department of Motor Vehicles |
| American University or American Collegiate, Washington DC | Washington, D.C., Department of Motor Vehicles |
| American Collegiate Los Angeles or University of the Pacific | California Department of Motor Vehicles |
| Auburn University or Auburn University at Montgomery | Alabama Law Enforcement Driver licence Department |
| Cleveland State University or University of Dayton | State of Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles |
| Florida International University or University of Central Florida | Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles |
| Gonzaga University | Washington State Licensing |
| Louisiana State University or Tulane University | Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles |
| University of Kansas | Kansas Department of Revenue Division of Motor Vehicles |
| University of Illinois Chicago or University of Illinois Springfield | Office of the Illinois Secretary of State-Driver Services |
| UMass Boston | Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles |
| University of South Carolina | South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles |
Additional Tips for International Students Applying for Driver’s Licence in the USA
- Each state can have slightly different traffic rules. Spend some time understanding these, especially those that might differ significantly from your home country. Knowing the rules not only keeps you safe but also helps you feel more confident on the road.
- It's crucial to ensure that all your documents, especially those translated, are accurate and up-to-date. Translayte can be invaluable here, providing peace of mind by ensuring all your paperwork is in order.
- If you're new to driving or just new to driving in the U.S., consider taking some driving lessons. These can provide you with valuable experience and help you become more familiar with driving in American traffic.
- Stay Informed about Local Practices. Each area might have its unspoken driving customs or practices. Try to observe and talk to local drivers to get a sense of these nuances. This insider knowledge can be just as important as knowing the official rules of the road.
FAQs from International Students who want to get a Driver’s Licence in the USA
What is an International Driver's Licence?
It's a document that allows you to drive in many countries, based on your existing foreign driver’s licence.
Can I get a U.S. Driver's Licence as a Tourist?
Generally, tourists can drive with their foreign licence and an IDP. But before you go ahead, check with your local DMV for more requirements and guidance.
Can I Exchange my Foreign Licence for a US Driving Licence?
Some states allow this, while others require you to go through the standard licensing process.
Can F1 Students Drive With a Foreign Licence?
Yes, for a limited period. It's advisable to get a U.S. driver's licence for longer stays.
How to get a Driver's Licence if you are Living in the U.S. as a Permanent Resident?
The process is similar to that for citizens, involving tests and the submission of necessary documents.
What do I do When my International Driver’s Permit expires?
You should apply for a U.S. driver's licence before the IDP expires.
What is the Validity of an International Driver's Licence?
Typically, an IDP is valid for one year from the issue date.
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