Getting your driver’s license is an exciting achievement! It allows you to travel in the US more freely, find employment, and live your life more easily. Most US Citizens and Permanent Residents are eligible to get their driver’s license at 16 years old. However, the process for immigrants can be a bit more complicated and confusing, and the policies can differ from state to state. In this article, we will guide you through getting a driver’s license as an immigrant, even if your green card application is still pending.
The first step to getting a driver’s license as an immigrant is to know the requirements. Every state has different requirements for obtaining a driver’s license. You should check your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website to find out what documents are needed. Generally, you will need:
Depending on your visa type, you may be able to apply for your license by showing proof of maintaining that visa status. For example, students on the F-1 visa may show proof of an unexpired I-20 or their OPT EAD card. It is typically not possible to apply for a driver’s license on a B-1/B-2 visitor’s visa due to the requirement to show proof of residence.
Many immigrants cannot obtain a driver’s license until they have submitted their green card application. After you submit your application, keep in mind that some states require the I-797 Receipt Notice for your I-485 form as proof of lawful presence, while others require a copy of your Employment Authorization Document (EAD card). Some states may also require a Social Security Number (SSN) to apply for a driver’s license.
If you are a new driver, you may need to take a driver’s education course before you can get a driver’s license. These courses provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a safe and responsible driver. You can find a list of approved courses on your state’s DMV website.
NOTE: Depending on the state, this requirement may be waived if you have a current driver’s license from a country outside the US.
Depending on the laws in your state, there are several tests that you may need to take to get your driver’s license.
Check your local DMV website for more information about the tests required for your state.
Some states may have resources about the written and driving test in other languages. Check the DMV website for your state to see if they offer these resources.
If you have just arrived in the US and plan to drive, you may be able to use your driver’s license from your home country. However, the laws and requirements for driving in the US can vary by state, so it’s important to check the specific rules in the state where you will be driving.
In general, most states will allow visitors to use their valid driver’s license from another country for a limited period of time. For example, in Utah, you can use your home country’s driver’s license for up to 6 months, but other states have a much shorter time period. Some states may require an International Driving Permit (IDP) as well, which is a translation of your home country’s license into other languages. You can obtain an IDP from the American Automobile Association (AAA).
If you already have a US driver’s license, but it is expired or expiring soon, you should check your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website to find out what is required to renew your license.
Depending on your visa type, you may be able to renew your license by showing proof of maintaining that visa status. For example, students on the F-1 visa may show proof of an unexpired I-20 or their OPT EAD card.
Keep in mind that many immigrants are not able to renew a driver’s license until they have submitted their green card application. Some states require the I-797 Receipt Notice for your I-485 form as proof of legal presence, while some states require a copy of your Employment Authorization Document (EAD card). Some states may also require a Social Security Number (SSN) to renew a driver’s license.
NOTE: Many states allow you to renew your driver’s license months before your current license expires. Don’t wait until your driver’s license expires to renew your license!
By following the steps outlined above, you can apply for or renew your driver’s license and enjoy the freedom of the open road. Good luck!
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