Are you new to the US? You can typically drive with your foreign license for up to 90 days in most states. After that, you must obtain a US driver’s license from your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Each US state has its own rules and requirements, but don’t worry—here at Remitly, we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help immigrants navigate the licensing process across the United States of America.
Table of contents
US driving essentials
At first, getting a US driver’s license might seem complicated, but breaking it down into steps makes it manageable. Here’s what you should know about the general application process:
- After arrival, your foreign license typically remains valid for 60 to 90 days—the amount of time varies by state.
- You’ll need to visit your local DMV office to exchange your driving license.
- The process typically involves a written test, vision test, and road test.
- Total costs usually range from $50 to $150 USD, depending on your state.
Required documentation for a US driver’s license
Before heading to the DMV, gather these essential documents. Again, check your state’s specific requirements—the rules in District of Columbia may be different from those in Maryland, and different again from the rules in Georgia, and so on.
- Valid passport and visa or permanent resident card;
- I-94 arrival/departure record;
- Social Security card (or ineligibility letter);
- Proof of residence in your state (lease, utility bills dated within 60 days, etc.);
- Your current international driver’s license or International Driver’s Permit (IDP), if you have one;
- Some states will ask for a Social Security number or birth certificate—take a look at USA.gov if you are not a citizen but want to drive during your stay.
Money-saving tip: Avoid going to the DMV if you are missing any documents. Each visit usually requires a new payment, so having everything ready saves time and money. And required documents vary by state, so be sure to check with your state’s DMV.
Preparing for your written test
Known as the theory portion, the written test checks your knowledge of US driving laws and road signs. Most states require you to pass the written test before you can get behind the wheel to start practicing—check the specific rules of the state you’re in.
Here is how you can prepare:
- Download your state’s driver’s manual from the DMV website.
- Focus on road signs and traffic rules that might differ from your home country.
- Take free practice tests through your state’s DMV website.
- Study in your preferred language (many states offer tests in multiple languages other than English).
Insider tip: Book your knowledge test appointment on Tuesday or Wednesday mornings when DMV offices are usually less crowded.
Getting your learner’s permit
After passing the written exam, you’ll receive a driver’s permit. This means you can practice driving when accompanied by a licensed driver. Bear in mind that:
- The licensed adult driver must be 21 years of age or older in most states.
- Some states require you to hold this driving permit for a minimum period (usually 6-12 months) before taking the road test.
Important: Don’t skip the driving permit stage, even if you’ve been on the road for years. It’s a legal requirement in most states. Look for a registered driving school where you can take lessons.
Taking the road test
The road test will be held in person to evaluate your practical driving skills. To earn a full driver’s license, you’ll need to:
- Schedule an appointment (book two to three weeks in advance).
- Bring a registered, insured vehicle.
- Demonstrate critical skills like parallel parking and three-point turns.
- Show confident knowledge of traffic rules.
Pro tips for the driver’s test:
- Arrive early with all documents;
- Check that all vehicle lights and signals work;
- Adjust mirrors and the driver’s seat before the examiner arrives;
- Remain calm—examiners expect to see safe and confident driving.
Understanding US car insurance requirements
Driving in the US requires car insurance—it’s mandatory in almost every state. Even before getting your license, you should know:
- Most states require liability insurance at minimum to cover damage you might cause to others.
- Insurance costs vary widely based on your location, driving history, and other factors.
- You’ll need proof of insurance to register a car, and in some cases to take your road test, if you’re using your own car.
- Foreign insurance policies typically won’t be valid .
When starting out, new drivers in the United States often have higher insurance rates, but these usually decrease over time if you keep a good driving record.
Money-saving tips:
- Compare quotes from multiple insurance companies.
- Ask about special discounts for safe drivers or completing defensive-driving courses.
- Some insurance companies offer specific programs for international drivers.
Special situations and solutions
Different backgrounds might need different approaches to obtain a license:
- Had a license in your home country? Some states offer shorter processes for experienced drivers, especially if your country has a reciprocal agreement with the US. In most cases, you’ll still need to pass the written and road tests.
- No prior license? If this is your first time driving, you might need to complete a driver’s education course.
- Under 18? Additional requirements often apply. Most states have Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) systems, with conditions like mandatory supervised driving hours, limits on passengers, and nighttime driving curfews.
- Need to drive for work? Consider scheduling your test process around your work commitments. Some states offer expedited services if you need to get your license quickly.
State-by-state: key differences to know
While basic requirements are similar across states, there are significant differences. Here is some more specific information for some states to give you an idea:
California
- Must schedule appointments online through the CA DMV website.
- Written test available in more than 35 languages.
- Requires proof of insurance before the road test.
- Driver’s license options available regardless of immigration status.
- Must complete a 46-question written test and get at least 38 correct to pass.
- CA DMV Appointment System
New York
- Mandatory five-hour pre-licensing course.
- Written test available in 14 languages.
- Parallel parking is a mandatory test component, as well as other maneuvers.
- New York does not allow the exchange of foreign licenses—you must apply for a new license.
- Getting your NY DMV License
Florida
- If you are over 18, there is no waiting period between getting your learner’s permit and taking the road test.
- Written test available in six languages.
- Requires first-time drivers to complete the Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course.
- FL Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Texas
- Must complete the Impact Texas Driver (ITD) program
- Need to hold a learner permit for at least a week.
- Written test available in English and Spanish.
- Requires proof of Texas residency of at least 30 days.
- Must complete a six-hour Driver Education course if aged 18-24 and applying for first license.
- TX DPS Driver License Division
Washington
- Enhanced Driver’s License available (valid for Canada border crossing) for some nationalities.
- Knowledge test available in 12 languages.
- Must provide proof of Washington residence of at least 90 days.
- Some foreign license holders can skip the tests.
- WA DOL Driver Licensing
Pro tip: Requirements can change, so verify current rules on your state’s DMV website before starting the process.
Remember, you’re not alone in this process. Thousands of immigrants successfully get their US driver’s licenses every month. Take it one step at a time, and soon enough, you’ll be driving independently in your new American home. Need to open a US bank account to pay for your license? We’ve got you covered.
FAQs
Depending on your state, you can typically drive with your valid foreign license for 60 to 90 days after arrival. Verify the exact timeframe with your state’s DMV and ensure you have an International Driving Permit (IDP).
If you’re not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN), most states will still allow you to get a license. You must obtain a letter from the Social Security Administration stating your eligibility issues. This letter, along with your other immigration documents, can be used in place of an SSN.
In most cases, yes. While some states have reciprocity agreements with certain countries (meaning they might waive some requirements), most states require both written and road tests, regardless of your previous driving experience. However, requirements vary by state and country of origin.
Yes. When you move to a new state, you typically have 30 to 90 days to get a state license from there. However, you won’t usually need to retake the tests—you can generally exchange your valid license from your previous state for a new one in your new state of residence.
