In much of the United States, a car isn’t a luxury. It’s how people get to work, groceries and the doctor. Even if you won’t drive, a driver’s license is the most common form of ID, used for everything from opening accounts to boarding domestic flights.
Getting a license as a newcomer is mostly paperwork and patience. This guide covers the general process. Rules vary by state, so always check your state’s DMV (sometimes called BMV, MVD or Department of Public Safety) website.
Can you drive with your foreign license?
Usually for a while, yes. Many states allow visitors to drive with a valid foreign license, often recommended alongside an International Driving Permit (IDP), which translates your license. But once you become a resident, most states require a local license within a set time.
| Situation | General rule |
|---|---|
| Tourist or short visit | Foreign license (plus IDP) is usually fine |
| New resident (moved to the state) | Must get a state license, often within 30–90 days |
| Student on F-1 | Varies; many states treat students as residents after a period |
| Worker on H-1B or L-1 | Usually treated as a resident; switch within the state deadline |
An IDP is only valid together with your original license, and it must be obtained in your home country before you travel.
Documents most DMVs ask for
Since the REAL ID rules took full effect in May 2025, most states issue REAL ID–compliant licenses that need more documents. For visa holders, expect to bring:
- Passport with your US visa
- I-94 arrival record, printed from the CBP website
- Status documents, such as your I-20 (F-1), DS-2019 (J-1), I-797 approval notice (H-1B, L-1) or EAD card
- Social Security number or proof you aren’t eligible (some states accept an SSA denial letter)
- Two proofs of state address, such as a lease, utility bill, bank statement or official mail
- Your foreign license, if you want test waivers
Tip: Check your I-94 before your appointment. If your name, date or class of admission is wrong, the DMV may not accept it, and fixing it takes time.
Step-by-step process
1. Book an appointment
Many DMV offices require appointments, and in busy cities slots fill up weeks ahead. Book as soon as you have an address.
2. Study for the written (knowledge) test
Every state publishes a free driver’s handbook. The written test covers road signs, right of way, speed limits, alcohol laws and state-specific rules. Many states offer the test in several languages. Practice tests online help a lot.
3. Pass the vision test
A simple eye test at the DMV. Bring your glasses or contacts if you use them.
4. Get a learner’s permit, if required
Some states issue a permit after the written test and require practice driving before the road test. Adults with foreign driving experience can often take the road test sooner.
5. Take the road test
You usually bring your own car, which must be registered, insured and in good condition, with a licensed driver accompanying you. The examiner checks basics like stops, turns, lane changes, parking and following traffic rules.
6. Receive your license
Many states give you a temporary paper license and mail the card within a few weeks.
Skipping tests with a foreign license
Some states have reciprocity agreements with certain countries, letting holders exchange their license without written or road tests. For example, several states have agreements with countries like Germany, France, South Korea or Taiwan. The list differs by state and changes, so check your DMV’s site.
Visa holders: what’s different
- Your license may expire when your immigration status ends, not after the usual four to eight years
- When you renew your visa or status, you may need to visit the DMV again with new documents
- A pending extension sometimes isn’t accepted, so plan renewals early
- Some states issue licenses to residents regardless of immigration status, but these may be marked “not for federal purposes” and aren’t valid as REAL ID
Costs
Fees usually include the application, the knowledge test and the license itself. In most states the total is modest, often under $100, but it varies. Budget extra for driving lessons if you need them, and for a car rental or lesson car for the road test.
Car insurance and a new license
Insurance companies look at US driving history. New licensees usually pay more at first. Some insurers consider foreign driving records, so ask. See our guide to car insurance without US driving history for ways to lower the cost.
Not driving? Get a state ID
If you don’t plan to drive, you can get a state ID card with the same documents. It works as everyday photo ID and, if REAL ID–compliant, for domestic flights.
Common mistakes
- Waiting until your foreign license can no longer be used legally
- Bringing copies instead of originals
- Mismatched names across passport, I-94 and SSN records
- Booking a road test without a properly insured car
Driving rules that surprise newcomers
- Right turns on red are allowed in most places after a full stop, unless a sign says otherwise
- School buses with flashing red lights mean everyone must stop, in both directions on most roads
- Speed limits are in miles per hour
- Four-way stops work on a first-come, first-go basis
- Police traffic stops: stay in the car, keep your hands visible and follow instructions
State examples
Rules differ a lot. These examples show the range; always confirm on the official site.
| State | Notable points |
|---|---|
| California | New residents are expected to get a California license within 10 days of becoming a resident; knowledge and drive tests are generally required |
| Texas | New residents generally have 90 days; license validity for many visa holders is tied to their authorized stay |
| New York | Some foreign license holders can exchange without a road test depending on country; others take a 5-hour pre-licensing course and road test |
| Florida | New residents generally must get a Florida license within 30 days of establishing residency |
| Washington | New residents generally have 30 days; some countries have reciprocity agreements |
Preparing for the road test
- Take one or two lessons with a local driving school to learn how examiners score
- Practice in the area around the test center
- Check your car before the test: lights, signals, horn, brakes, registration and insurance card
- Adjust mirrors and seat before starting, and use signals every time
- Come to a full stop at stop signs, behind the white line
- Check blind spots over your shoulder when changing lanes
Common reasons people fail: rolling stops, not checking blind spots, speeding in school zones, poor parallel parking and hitting the curb.
Teen and family members
Spouses and teenage children may need their own licenses. Teen drivers usually follow graduated licensing rules with a learner’s permit, supervised hours and restrictions on night driving or passengers. Adding a teen driver to your insurance can raise premiums sharply, so compare quotes first.
When your status changes
If you get a new visa, an extension or a green card, update your license. Bring your new approval notice or card to the DMV. If your license shows a limited-term expiration date tied to your old status, a new status may allow a longer license.
Lost or stolen license
Report a stolen license to the police if it was part of a theft, then request a replacement from your DMV, often online. You may need to show identity documents again. Consider placing a fraud alert with credit bureaus if your wallet was stolen with other IDs.
Getting around before you have a license
- Public transit, rideshare and car-sharing services
- Bikes and e-scooters in many cities
- Carpools with coworkers or classmates
- Rental cars, which usually accept a foreign license plus passport
Having a plan for the first month means you won’t feel pressure to drive before you’re ready or legally allowed.
