driving in usa with international drivers license

Depending on your state, if you have a license from your home country or another state, the DMV may not require you to take the tests. Additional RequirementsĪ driver’s license applicant may also need to pass both a driving and written test. In addition, you may receive the license immediately or you may have to wait several weeks, depending on the state. It is normal for some nonimmigrants to only get temporary licenses. If you are an F-2, M-2 or J-2 dependent, go to the DMV with your primary F-1, M-1 or J-1 and make sure you both have all your required documents.Īfter a successful application process, a DMV official will explain the next steps for attaining your driver’s license. ” The DMV will use the A number on this card to verify your status.

If you are on optional practical training, bring your Form I-766, “Employment Authorization Document.

If your state requires it, an SSN card or a Form SSA-L676, “Refusal to Process SSN Application.”.

This varies from state to state and you should check your local DMV’s website to ensure you understand what is needed to fulfill this requirement.

A valid passport and your most recent student visa (Please note that you do not need a visa if you are from a visa-exempt country, such as Canada or Bermuda).

All signed versions of your Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.”.

When you apply for a driver's license at your local DMV, make sure to bring original copies of the following documents: To find out more about this program, please visit the Checking Your SAVE Case Status page. To verify your status, the DMV may use the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements ( SAVE) Program. The DMV may need to verify your nonimmigrant student status to determine if you are eligible for a driver’s license.

Visiting and submitting the proper documentation to the DMV.

Obtaining a Social Security number (SSN), if required by your state or territory.Waiting 10 days after arriving in the United States to apply for a driver's license so that your Form I-94, “Arrival/Departure Record,” information can update in all the government systems.Confirming with your DSO that your student record is Active in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System.Talking with your designated school official (DSO) about driving rules and regulations in your state or territory.While the application process for receiving a driver’s license may be different in each state, the basic steps are very similar. To acquire a driver’s license, you must apply for one at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), which can have a different name in some states. Driving a car without a driver’s license is illegal. However, those who wish to operate a vehicle must successfully apply for and receive a driver’s license. F and M students, and their dependents, may be eligible to drive a motor vehicle while residing in the United States.

Driving in usa with international drivers license