Foreigners applying for a U.S. driver's license typically need to provide a valid passport, proof of legal residency such as a visa or green card, and proof of address within the state where the license is issued. They must also present their Social Security number or an official letter of ineligibility if applicable. Additional documents like an original birth certificate or immigration documents may be required depending on the state's specific regulations.
What Documents Does a Foreigner Need for a U.S. Driver’s License?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | REAL ID-compliant documentation | Foreigners applying for a U.S. driver's license must present REAL ID-compliant documents, including valid proof of identity such as a passport with a visa or an I-94 form, proof of Social Security number or ineligibility letter, and two proofs of state residency like utility bills or lease agreements. These documents ensure eligibility under the Department of Homeland Security standards for secure identification used for federal purposes. |
| 2 | Proof of lawful presence | A foreigner applying for a U.S. driver's license must provide valid proof of lawful presence, such as a permanent resident card, valid visa with I-94 form, or employment authorization document. These documents verify immigration status and eligibility for driving privileges in compliance with state-specific Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requirements. |
| 3 | Digital I-94 arrival/departure record | Foreigners applying for a U.S. driver's license must provide a valid passport, visa, proof of state residency, and a digital I-94 arrival/departure record accessible from U.S. Customs and Border Protection's website to verify lawful entry and duration of stay. The digital I-94 serves as an official electronic document confirming the traveler's admission status, critical for licensing authorities during the identity and eligibility verification process. |
| 4 | USCIS-issued Employment Authorization Document (EAD) | Foreigners applying for a U.S. driver's license must present valid identification such as a USCIS-issued Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which verifies legal work authorization and identity. The EAD serves as a crucial document alongside proof of residency and Social Security number or ineligibility letter required by state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offices. |
| 5 | Consular identification card (CID) | A foreigner applying for a U.S. driver's license may need a Consular Identification Card (CID) as a valid form of identification to verify identity and residency. The CID, issued by the applicant's home country consulate, helps establish legal presence and supports other documents like proof of address and social security status required by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). |
| 6 | Form DS-2019 (J-1 Exchange Visitor Document) | Foreigners applying for a U.S. driver's license often need to present Form DS-2019, which verifies their J-1 Exchange Visitor status and confirms legal residence for the duration of the program. This document, issued by the sponsoring exchange program, serves as proof of identity and lawful presence, essential for meeting state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) licensing requirements. |
| 7 | Proof of domicile or residential address | Foreigners applying for a U.S. driver's license must provide proof of domicile or residential address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement displaying their name and current U.S. address. Documents like a government-issued mail, rental contract, or mortgage statement are also accepted to verify residency requirements. |
| 8 | Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) approval notice | Foreigners applying for a U.S. driver's license must provide a Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) approval notice as proof of lawful presence, along with valid identification documents and residency verification. The DACA approval notice confirms eligibility for licensing under states that recognize DACA recipients, ensuring compliance with state-specific motor vehicle department requirements. |
| 9 | Temporary Protected Status (TPS) receipt | Foreigners applying for a U.S. driver's license with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) must present their valid TPS receipt notice as proof of lawful presence, alongside a valid foreign passport, Social Security number or ineligibility letter, and proof of state residency. This combination verifies identity and legal status, fulfilling state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requirements for license issuance. |
| 10 | State-specific non-citizen eligibility affidavit | Foreigners applying for a U.S. driver's license often must submit a state-specific non-citizen eligibility affidavit that verifies their legal presence and driving eligibility status, alongside standard documents like a passport, visa, and proof of residency. This affidavit varies by state, ensuring compliance with local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requirements and confirming the applicant's authorized stay and lawful driving eligibility. |
Introduction to U.S. Driver’s License Requirements for Foreign Nationals
Obtaining a U.S. driver's license is a crucial step for foreign nationals residing in the United States. Understanding the specific documentation requirements helps streamline the application process and ensures legal compliance.
- Proof of Identity - Applicants must provide valid identification such as a passport or consular ID to verify their identity.
- Legal Presence Documentation - Valid immigration status documents like a visa, work permit, or permanent resident card are required to confirm legal residency.
- Proof of Residency - Documents including utility bills, lease agreements, or bank statements are necessary to prove state residency.
Meeting these documentation requirements is essential for foreign nationals to successfully apply for and obtain a U.S. driver's license.
Valid Passport and Visa Documentation
| Document Type | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Valid Passport | Official government-issued travel document from the foreign national's home country. | Proof of identity and citizenship essential for applying for a U.S. driver's license. |
| Visa Documentation | U.S. visa stamped in the passport showing the legal authorization to stay in the United States. | Confirms lawful presence and eligibility for issuing a driver's license in most U.S. states. |
| I-94 Arrival/Departure Record | Electronic or paper form issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection upon entry. | Validates the duration of stay and immigration status required by state DMV offices. |
| State-specific Residency Proof | Documents such as rental agreements, utility bills, or bank statements proving residential address. | Required for establishing residency in the state issuing the driver's license. |
Proof of Legal Presence in the United States
Proof of legal presence in the United States is a mandatory requirement for obtaining a U.S. driver's license as a foreigner. Acceptable documents include a valid visa, permanent resident card, or an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
These documents verify your lawful status and eligibility to apply for a driver's license. It is essential to present original and current papers to meet state-specific Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) regulations.
Social Security Number or Ineligibility Letter
Foreigners applying for a U.S. driver's license typically need to provide a Social Security Number (SSN) as part of their documentation. The SSN verifies their work authorization and is a critical requirement for most state Departments of Motor Vehicles (DMVs).
If a foreign applicant is not eligible for a Social Security Number, they must obtain an SSN Ineligibility Letter from the Social Security Administration. This letter serves as proof of ineligibility and allows the applicant to proceed with their driver's license application under specific state guidelines.
Proof of Residency: Acceptable Documents
Proof of residency is a crucial requirement for foreigners applying for a U.S. driver's license. Acceptable documents must clearly show your name and current address within the state of application.
Common proof of residency documents include utility bills, bank statements, and rental or lease agreements dated within the last 60 days. Mortgage statements or official government mail such as tax documents also qualify. Documents must be original or certified copies and reflect an accurate residential address to meet state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) standards.
International Driver’s License or Home Country License
Foreigners applying for a U.S. driver's license typically need to present a valid International Driver's Permit (IDP) or their home country driver's license. An IDP serves as a translation of the foreign license and is recognized in most U.S. states, facilitating the licensing process. Some states may require both the original license and an official translation or IDP to validate driving eligibility.
Form I-94: Arrival/Departure Record
Foreign nationals applying for a U.S. driver's license must present Form I-94: Arrival/Departure Record as proof of lawful entry. This document confirms the individual's arrival date, immigration status, and authorized length of stay in the United States. The Form I-94 is essential for verifying eligibility during the driver's license application process at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Employment Authorization Document (If Applicable)
What documents does a foreigner need to obtain a U.S. driver's license? A foreigner must provide proof of identity, residency, and legal presence in the United States. An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) serves as valid proof of legal presence and work authorization if applicable.
Proof of Identity: Accepted Documents
Obtaining a U.S. driver's license requires proper documentation to prove your identity. Accepted documents must meet state-specific guidelines and verify your legal presence in the country.
- Valid Passport - A current passport from your home country serves as primary proof of identity and citizenship.
- U.S. Visa or ESTA - Your valid visa or Electronic System for Travel Authorization confirms your legal entry and status in the U.S.
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Ineligibility Letter - Providing an SSN or an official letter stating ineligibility helps verify your identity and eligibility for licensing.
What Documents Does a Foreigner Need for a U.S. Driver’s License? Infographic
