Foreign students applying for a driver's license in the US typically need to provide a valid passport, a student visa (such as an F-1 or J-1), and proof of residency like a lease agreement or utility bill. They must also present their I-20 or DS-2019 form, alongside a Social Security Number or a letter of ineligibility. Additional requirements often include passing a written knowledge test, a vision exam, and a road skills test, depending on state regulations.
What Documents Does a Foreign Student Need for a Driver’s License in the US?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | I-20 Form Endorsement | A foreign student must present a valid I-20 Form with an endorsement from their designated school official (DSO) to apply for a driver's license in the US, confirming their legal status and enrollment. The I-20 endorsement verifies the student's current eligibility and is essential for motor vehicle departments to process the license application under temporary visitor regulations. |
| 2 | SEVIS I-901 Payment Confirmation | Foreign students applying for a driver's license in the US must present the SEVIS I-901 payment confirmation to prove their valid F-1 or M-1 visa status. This document, along with a valid passport, I-20 form, and proof of residence, is essential for DMV verification and license eligibility. |
| 3 | Nonimmigrant Visa Status Verification | A foreign student applying for a driver's license in the US must provide Nonimmigrant Visa Status Verification, typically including a valid I-20 form issued by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and a current Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record. These documents confirm legal temporary presence and eligibility under F-1 or M-1 visa status, required by Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to process the license application. |
| 4 | DSO (Designated School Official) Letter | A foreign student must provide a DSO (Designated School Official) letter verifying their enrollment and eligibility to apply for a driver's license in the US, which confirms their legal student status and authorized stay. This letter, along with a valid passport, visa, I-20 or DS-2019 form, and proof of residence, is essential for DMV verification during the license application process. |
| 5 | F-1/J-1 Visa Compliance Document | Foreign students applying for a U.S. driver's license must present a valid F-1 or J-1 visa, an unexpired passport, and the Form I-20 or DS-2019 to prove legal student status and visa compliance. Proof of residency, such as a university housing letter or utility bill, along with a Social Security Number or a letter of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration, are also required for license eligibility. |
| 6 | International Student DMV Checklist | International students applying for a US driver's license must present a valid passport, Form I-20 or DS-2019, proof of residence such as a utility bill or lease agreement, and their valid visa or I-94 arrival/departure record. The DMV may also require proof of enrollment at a US educational institution and a Social Security Number or an official letter of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration. |
| 7 | Form DS-2019 (Exchange Visitor Certificate) | Foreign students applying for a driver's license in the US typically need to present Form DS-2019, the Exchange Visitor Certificate, as proof of their legal J-1 visa status and participation in an exchange program. This document, along with a valid passport, I-94 form, and proof of residency, is essential for verifying identity and eligibility at the Department of Motor Vehicles. |
| 8 | I-94 Arrival/Departure Record Printout | A foreign student must provide an I-94 Arrival/Departure Record printout as proof of legal entry and current immigration status when applying for a driver's license in the US. This document verifies the student's authorized stay and is required alongside other identification and residency proofs. |
| 9 | Residency Proof for Non-Citizens | Foreign students applying for a driver's license in the US must provide residency proof, which typically includes documents such as a valid rental agreement, utility bills, or an official letter from their university confirming on-campus housing. Non-citizens may also need to present a valid visa along with the I-94 form to establish legal presence and residency within the state issuing the license. |
| 10 | DMV “Legal Presence” Review Form | Foreign students applying for a driver's license in the US must submit the DMV "Legal Presence" Review Form, which verifies their lawful status through documentation such as a valid passport with F-1 or J-1 visa, I-94 immigration record, and I-20 or DS-2019 form. This form is critical for confirming eligibility and complying with state-specific requirements during the licensing process. |
Introduction to Driver’s License Requirements for Foreign Students
```htmlWhat documents does a foreign student need to obtain a driver's license in the US? A foreign student must prepare specific identification and residency documents to meet state requirements. These documents typically include a valid passport, visa, I-20 or DS-2019 form, and proof of residency such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
```Valid Passport and Visa Documentation
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | A current and unexpired passport from your home country is essential. It serves as your primary identification and proof of nationality when applying for a driver's license in the US. |
| Visa Documentation | A valid visa or entry permit that confirms your legal status as a foreign student in the US. This includes student visas such as the F-1 or J-1, which must be up to date and valid throughout the licensing process. |
Proof of Legal Presence in the United States
To obtain a driver's license as a foreign student in the US, you must provide proof of legal presence in the country. Acceptable documents include your valid visa, I-20 Form, and I-94 Arrival/Departure Record. Your driver's license application will be processed only after verifying these legal documents with the Department of Homeland Security.
Form I-20 or DS-2019 for Student Status Verification
Foreign students applying for a driver's license in the US must verify their student status using specific immigration documents. The Form I-20 or DS-2019 serves as primary proof of lawful student status required by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Form I-20 is issued to F-1 visa holders, indicating enrollment at a SEVP-certified institution. DS-2019 applies to J-1 exchange visitors and confirms eligibility for student or exchange programs during the license application process.
Social Security Number or Ineligibility Letter
Foreign students applying for a driver's license in the US must provide specific documentation related to their Social Security Number (SSN) status. If you are ineligible for an SSN, an official ineligibility letter is required to proceed with your application.
- Social Security Number (SSN) - Most states require an SSN to issue a driver's license, serving as proof of legal work authorization or residency.
- Ineligibility Letter - This official document, issued by the Social Security Administration, confirms that you are not eligible for an SSN, allowing you to apply without one.
- Additional Identification - Along with the SSN or ineligibility letter, you must present valid immigration documents such as your visa, I-94, and passport for identity verification.
Proof of Residency in the State of Application
Foreign students must provide specific documents to prove residency when applying for a driver's license in the US. Proof of residency confirms your address within the state where the license is requested.
- Utility Bills - Recent utility bills like electricity or water statements show your residential address in the state.
- Lease or Rental Agreement - A signed lease agreement acts as official confirmation of your housing within the state.
- Bank Statements - Bank statements that include your name and state address help verify your residency for licensing authorities.
Providing accurate proof of residency is essential to meet state driver's license application requirements.
Completed Driver’s License Application Form
To obtain a driver's license in the US as a foreign student, a completed Driver's License Application Form is essential. This form collects personal information, residency details, and driving history necessary for processing your license.
Submitting a fully filled and signed application form speeds up the review process and ensures compliance with state regulations. Accurate completion of this document is a critical step towards legally obtaining your driver's license.
Proof of Enrollment at an Accredited Academic Institution
Proof of enrollment at an accredited academic institution is essential for foreign students applying for a driver's license in the US. This document verifies your status as an active student, usually through a current class schedule, enrollment verification letter, or tuition receipt. Presenting this proof ensures compliance with state requirements and facilitates the license application process.
Required Identification Documents Checklist
Foreign students applying for a driver's license in the US must prepare a specific set of identification documents to meet state DMV requirements. These documents confirm identity, legal presence, and residency within the state.
The required identification documents checklist typically includes a valid passport, visa or I-20 form, and proof of Social Security number or a Social Security denial letter. Applicants must also provide two proofs of state residency, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement. In some states, an original or certified birth certificate may also be necessary.
What Documents Does a Foreign Student Need for a Driver’s License in the US? Infographic
