Foreign nationals must provide a valid passport, visa, and proof of legal presence in the United States to obtain a US driver's license. They also need to present proof of residency within the issuing state, such as a utility bill or lease agreement, and may be required to submit a Social Security Number or a letter of ineligibility. Completion of a written knowledge test and a driving skills test is typically mandatory before the license is granted.
What Documents Does a Foreign National Need to Get a US Driver’s License?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Legal Presence Verification | Foreign nationals must provide proof of legal presence in the United States through documents such as a valid passport with a visa, Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record), or an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to obtain a US driver's license. These documents verify lawful entry and immigration status, meeting state-specific Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requirements for authorization. |
| 2 | Real ID Act Compliance | Foreign nationals seeking a US driver's license must present documents that comply with the Real ID Act, including valid immigration status proofs such as a passport with a visa, I-94 arrival/departure record, or Employment Authorization Document (EAD). State Departments of Motor Vehicles (DMVs) also require proof of Social Security number or ineligibility, residency within the state, and identity verification to ensure eligibility under federal and state regulations. |
| 3 | Form I-766 (Employment Authorization Document) | A foreign national must present Form I-766, the Employment Authorization Document (EAD), as proof of legal status and work authorization when applying for a U.S. driver's license, alongside state-specific identification and residency documents. The EAD serves as a critical government-issued ID verifying lawful presence and eligibility for driving privileges in the United States. |
| 4 | SAVE Program Clearance | Foreign nationals must obtain SAVE Program clearance to verify their immigration status before applying for a US driver's license, ensuring eligibility under federal law. Required documents typically include a valid passport, visa, I-94 form, and proof of residency, all verified through the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program. |
| 5 | I-94 Arrival/Departure Record Automation | Foreign nationals need to present their I-94 Arrival/Departure Record, which is now accessible through automated online retrieval, to verify lawful entry and authorized stay when applying for a U.S. driver's license. This electronic I-94 record streamlines the documentation process, ensuring accurate immigration status verification vital for obtaining state-issued driving credentials. |
| 6 | Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) | A Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) serves as crucial proof of U.S. citizenship for foreign nationals applying for a U.S. driver's license, verifying the applicant's identity and citizenship status. This document is accepted by most state DMV offices as part of the required identification and residency documentation to authorize license issuance. |
| 7 | Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection (SENTRI) Card | Foreign nationals seeking a US driver's license using a Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection (SENTRI) card must present the SENTRI card as a valid form of identification along with proof of lawful presence, residency documents, and Social Security number or proof of ineligibility. The SENTRI card expedites verification through the Department of Homeland Security's trusted traveler program, facilitating the driver's license issuance process by confirming the traveler's authorization status. |
| 8 | Digital Identity Credentialing | Foreign nationals must present proof of identity, lawful presence, and residency, such as a valid passport, visa, and Social Security Number or ITIN, to obtain a US driver's license; digital identity credentialing systems increasingly facilitate secure verification of these documents. Integration of biometric data and encrypted digital IDs enhances the authorization process by streamlining identity verification and reducing fraud risk during foreign nationals' licensing applications. |
| 9 | Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL) | Foreign nationals applying for a Temporary Visitor Driver's License (TVDL) in the US must provide valid proof of identity, such as a foreign passport with a valid visa, proof of residency in the issuing state, and proof of legal presence or lawful temporary status. The TVDL application often requires additional documents like Social Security denial letters, and proof of vehicle insurance, ensuring compliance with state-specific authorization and licensing regulations. |
| 10 | Electronic Document Authentication (e-Verification) | Foreign nationals seeking a US driver's license must provide documents that pass Electronic Document Authentication (e-Verification), including valid passports, visas, and I-94 arrival/departure records. This electronic verification system ensures the authenticity of immigration status and identity, streamlining the authorization process for state DMV offices. |
Introduction to Authorization Documents for Foreign Nationals
Foreign nationals seeking a US driver's license must provide specific authorization documents as part of the application process. These documents verify legal presence, identity, and residency within the state. Common requirements include a valid passport, visa or immigration status proof, and a state-issued proof of address.
Eligibility Requirements for Foreign Nationals
| Eligibility Requirements for Foreign Nationals to Obtain a US Driver's License |
|---|
| Foreign nationals seeking a US driver's license must provide specific documents to prove identity, residency, and legal presence. Essential documents typically include a valid passport, visa, and proof of lawful status such as an I-94 arrival/departure record or Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Proof of state residency is required, which can be demonstrated through a utility bill, rental agreement, or bank statement showing the applicant's address. Social Security Number (SSN) is often necessary; if not eligible, a letter of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration is accepted. You must also pass written and practical driving examinations according to the state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) guidelines. Some states may require additional documentation or proof of enrollment in a driver education program. Verification of eligibility varies by state, so it is important to consult the specific DMV website for precise requirements. |
Valid Passport and Visa Documentation
Foreign nationals must present a valid passport as primary identification when applying for a US driver's license. This passport confirms identity and citizenship status required by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
A valid visa or approved immigration document is also necessary to prove lawful presence in the United States. These documents include work, student, or tourist visas, which must be current and unexpired.
Form I-94: Arrival/Departure Record
Foreign nationals require specific documentation to obtain a US driver's license, with Form I-94 playing a crucial role. This document serves as official evidence of lawful entry and legal status in the United States.
- Form I-94: Arrival/Departure Record - It is issued by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) upon entry to the US, recording the date of arrival and authorized length of stay.
- Proof of Legal Presence - The I-94 confirms a foreign national's legal status, which state DMV offices rely on to validate eligibility for a driver's license.
- Electronic and Paper Versions - The I-94 can be accessed online through the CBP website or provided as a paper document at the port of entry, both accepted for driving license applications.
Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
What documents does a foreign national need to get a US driver's license with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)?
A foreign national must present a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) as proof of legal presence in the United States. The EAD typically serves as a primary identification document for submitting an application for a US driver's license.
Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
To obtain a US driver's license as a foreign national, your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) is a crucial document. It serves as proof of your lawful status and identity in the United States.
- Proof of Legal Status - Your Green Card verifies your eligibility to reside and apply for a driver's license in the US.
- Identity Verification - The card includes your personal details and photo, confirming your identity to the DMV.
- Residency Requirement - It demonstrates your permanent residency, meeting state requirements for a driver's license application.
Proof of Residential Address
Proof of residential address is a critical requirement for foreign nationals applying for a US driver's license. Acceptable documents include utility bills, lease agreements, or official bank statements that clearly display your name and physical address.
Documents must be recent, typically dated within the last 30 to 60 days, to meet state-specific regulations. Ensuring the address matches the application helps verify residency and fulfill the state's identification criteria.
Social Security Number or Ineligibility Letter
Foreign nationals applying for a US driver's license must provide a valid Social Security Number (SSN) or an official SSN ineligibility letter. This document verifies their eligibility status for Social Security benefits, which is critical for identity confirmation.
If an applicant is not eligible for an SSN, the Social Security Administration issues an ineligibility letter that must be submitted to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This letter proves the applicant's lawful presence and supports the driver's license application process. Presenting either the SSN or the ineligibility letter ensures compliance with state and federal requirements for licensing.
Translating and Certifying Foreign Documents
Foreign nationals must provide original or certified copies of their foreign driver's licenses when applying for a US driver's license. Translating these documents into English by a certified translator is often required to ensure accuracy and validity. Certification confirms the authenticity of the translation, facilitating smooth verification by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
What Documents Does a Foreign National Need to Get a US Driver’s License? Infographic
