How to get Driving License in USA for International Students

Can international students get a USA driving licence?

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. The process involves submitting required documents like

• Valid passport
• Visa: Your most recent U.S. visa, if applicable.
• Form I-94
• 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

Before you apply for a driver’s licence in the US as an international student, your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record must have an active status. If everything is ready, you can visit the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in your state of residency to submit your application. 

Steps to get an international driving licence for USA as an International Student

Getting your USA driving licence as a foreign student can be seamless if you follow the requirements and provide documents. Here are the steps to getting your driver's licence in the USA.

1. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP) Before Leaving Home: The ideal time to get an IDP for USA is before you leave your home country. The IDP for USA 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.
    
2. 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
    
3. 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.
    
4. Locate the nearest DMV to you and confirm their requirements for your situation: When it comes to to driver's license application process for international students, each state has its unique set of requirements. 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. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may use the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) Program to verify your nonimmigrant student status. This process ensures that your immigration documents are valid and up-to-date. You can check the status of your SAVE verification case online through the USCIS SAVE CaseCheck service.
    
5. Gather Your Identification Documents: This step is akin to packing for a trip. You need to gather original copies of your passport, most recent student visa, and any other identification forms required by your local DMV office. 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.
    
6. 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 international driving licence for usa?” 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, recent 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 residence with simple documents like a utility bill or bank records 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 nearest 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 US driver’s license at any of the following DMV’s depending on where you are located:

Additional Tips for International Students Applying for US Driving Licence

1. 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 driving rules not only keeps you safe but also helps you feel more confident on the road.
    
2. 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.
    
3. 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.
    
4. 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.

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