What You Need as an International Student
As an international student, you can get a U.S. driver's license, but the process differs from what a U.S. citizen or permanent resident follows. Most states require you to show an unexpired passport and a valid visa (F-1, M-1, J-1, or other student visa), proof of state residency, and proof of identity. Some states also require an I-20 form (for F-1 students) or DS-2019 form (for J-1 students) to confirm your student status.
The key difference is that you cannot use a Social Security number as your primary identifier if you don't have one. Instead, you'll use your passport number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if you've obtained one. A few states accept an ITIN; others require your passport number only. Check your specific state's DMV website before you go, because this varies significantly.
Your state of residency is determined by where your school is located or where you live while attending school, not by your home country. If you move to a different state during your studies, you'll need to get a new license in that state rather than transfer your old one.
Key Takeaways
- You must show your unexpired passport, valid student visa, and proof of state residency (such as a lease or utility bill in your name).
- Most states do not require a Social Security number; you can use your passport number or ITIN instead, but rules vary by state.
- Your I-20 or DS-2019 form confirms your student status and may be required by your state's DMV.
- You must pass the written knowledge test and the driving test in the same way U.S. citizens do, though some states offer the written test in multiple languages.
- International students on certain visas (F-1, M-1, J-1) are generally permitted to hold a driver's license, but you should confirm this with your school's international student office.
Documents You Must Bring to the DMV
Gather these documents before you visit the DMV. Bring originals, not copies, unless the DMV website specifically says copies are acceptable. Many DMVs will not accept documents that are not in English; if yours are in another language, you'll need a certified English translation.
| Document | Why You Need It | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unexpired passport | Proof of identity and citizenship | Must be valid on the day you explore. A copy is usually not accepted. |
| Valid student visa (in your passport) | Proof of legal presence in the U.S. | Your visa must not be expired. Check the expiration date on the visa stamp itself, not your passport. |
| I-20 or DS-2019 form | Proof of current student status | Required by most states. Get the current version from your school's international student office. |
| Proof of state residency | Shows you live in the state where you're explore | Lease, utility bill, bank statement, or school housing letter. Must be in your name and dated within the last 60 days (rules vary by state). |
| Proof of Social Security number or ITIN | Identification number for the license record | Not all states require this. Some accept passport number only. Check your state's rules first. |
If you live in school housing and the lease is not in your name, ask your international student office for a letter on school letterhead confirming your residency. Many DMVs accept this as proof of residency.
State-by-State Differences That Matter
Rules for international students vary by state. Some states are straightforward; others have specific requirements or restrictions. Before you go to the DMV, visit your state's official DMV website and search for "international student" or "non-citizen." If you cannot find clear information, call the DMV directly or visit your school's international student office—they deal with this regularly and know the local rules.
California, New York, and Texas have relatively clear processes for international students and accept I-20 or DS-2019 forms as proof of status. Florida and Illinois also have established procedures. However, some states have stricter rules or require additional documents. For example, a few states ask for proof that you have not been in the U.S. for more than a certain period, or they require your school to verify your enrollment directly with the DMV.
The written test is offered in English in all states, but some states (California, New York, Texas, and others) offer it in Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, or other languages. If English is not your first language, check whether your state offers the test in a language you're comfortable with. You can usually request this when you schedule your appointment or arrive at the DMV.
The Written Test and Driving Test
You must pass the same written knowledge test that U.S. citizens take. The test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices specific to your state. Most states allow you to take the test on a computer at the DMV, and you typically have a set number of attempts (often three) before you must wait and reapply.
After you pass the written test, you'll receive a learner's permit (called a permit, provisional license, or instruction permit depending on your state). With this permit, you can drive only with a licensed driver in the car with you. You must then schedule a road test, which is the driving test. The road test usually takes 15 to 30 minutes and covers basic driving skills, parking, and your ability to follow traffic laws.
You can use your own car, a rental car, or a car borrowed from a friend for the road test, as long as it is registered, insured, and has valid license plates. Some international students use a driving school to prepare for the test; this is optional but can help if you learned to drive in a country with different traffic rules.
Getting an ITIN If You Don't Have a Social Security Number
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS. Some states accept an ITIN in place of a Social Security number on a driver's license process. You do not need an ITIN to get a license in most states, but it can be useful if you plan to work, file taxes, or open a bank account.
To get an ITIN, you must file a tax return with the IRS using Form W-7. You'll need to include documents that prove your identity and residency, such as your passport and a lease. The process takes several weeks. You can file the form yourself or use a tax preparation service; many international student offices can refer you to a service that works with students.
Check your state's DMV website first. If your state does not require an ITIN or Social Security number, you do not need to get one just for the license. However, if you plan to work on or off campus, you may need one anyway, so ask your international student office whether it's worth getting.
Fees and Timeline
Driver's license fees for international students are the same as for U.S. citizens in most states. Fees typically range from $20 to $50 for a learner's permit and $30 to $100 for a full license, depending on the state and how long the license is valid (usually 4 to 8 years). Some states charge extra for a REAL ID-compliant license, which is required for domestic air travel starting in 2025.
The timeline depends on how quickly you pass the written test and schedule your road test. The written test can usually be taken within a few days of explore. The road test may have a wait of one to four weeks, depending on how busy your local DMV is. Plan for at least three to four weeks from the day you start the process to the day you receive your license in the mail.
Some states issue your license on the spot after you pass the road test; others mail it to you. Check your state's process. If your license is mailed, ask whether you can get a temporary paper license to drive legally while you wait.
What to Do Before You Visit the DMV
Schedule an appointment if your state's DMV allows it. Many DMVs now require appointments, especially after the pandemic. Walk-ins may face long waits or may not be served at all. Check your state's DMV website for the appointment system.
Gather all documents listed above and make copies for your records. Bring the originals to the DMV. If any documents are not in English, bring a certified English translation as well as the original.
Contact your school's international student office before you go. They can confirm that your I-20 or DS-2019 is current, answer questions about your visa status, and sometimes provide a letter confirming your residency if you live in school housing. They may also know about any recent changes to your state's rules.
Study the driver's manual for your state. You can read it free from your state's DMV website. Focus on traffic laws, road signs, and right-of-way rules. If English is not your first language, read it carefully and take practice tests online—many state DMVs offer free practice tests on their websites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with my passport and visa instead of getting a U.S. driver's license?
No. A U.S. state driver's license is required to drive legally in the United States. Your passport and visa are not valid as a driving permit. You must get a state license to drive a car.
What if my visa expires before my license does?
Your driver's license remains valid as long as you hold it, even if your visa expires. However, if you leave the U.S. and your visa expires, you cannot legally drive when you return unless you renew your visa or obtain a new one. If you plan to stay in the U.S. after your current visa expires, work with your international student office to extend or change your visa status before it expires.
Do I need a Social Security number to get a driver's license as an international student?
Most states do not require a Social Security number. You can use your passport number or ITIN instead. However, a few states do require one. Check your state's DMV website or call the DMV to confirm. If your state requires a Social Security number and you don't have one, you may need to get an ITIN.
Can I use my international driver's license instead of getting a U.S. license?
An international driver's license (also called an International Driving Permit or IDP) is not a substitute for a U.S. state license. It is a translation of your home country's license and is valid only for a short time (usually one year). To drive legally in the U.S. long-term, you must get a state driver's license. You can use your IDP while you wait for your U.S. license to arrive, but only if your state's law allows it—check with your DMV.
What happens to my license if I change schools or move to a different state?
If you move to a different state, you must get a new driver's license in that state. You cannot transfer your old license. You'll need to repeat the written test and road test in your new state, though some states may waive the written test if you show your current out-of-state license. Contact your new state's DMV for details.