How Foreigners Can Get a U.S. Driver's License

What you need to get a U.S. driver's license as a non-citizen

A foreigner can get a U.S. driver's license in most states, but the documents required and the process vary by state. You will need proof of identity (usually a passport), proof of residency (a lease, utility bill, or bank statement with your current address), and a Social Security Number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Some states accept a foreign driver's license as proof of identity instead of a passport.

The residency requirement is the biggest hurdle. Most states require you to show you live at a specific address in that state — typically within the last 30 to 90 days. If you are staying with friends or family, you may be able to use a notarized letter from them stating you live there, though this varies by state. A few states accept a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, or a utility bill in your name.

You will also need to pass a written test on traffic laws and road signs, and a practical driving test. Some states waive the written test if you hold a valid driver's license from another country, but most do not. The written test is usually offered in multiple languages, and you can request an interpreter at the DMV.

Key Takeaways

You will need a passport or foreign driver's license, proof you live in the state, and either a Social Security Number or an ITIN.
Residency proof usually means a lease, utility bill, or bank statement showing your current address within the last 30 to 90 days.
Most states require you to pass both a written test on traffic laws and a practical driving test, though some waive the written test for holders of valid foreign licenses.
The written test is offered in multiple languages at most DMVs, and you can request an interpreter.
Processing times and fees vary by state, ranging from same-day issuance to several weeks.

How to get a Social Security Number or ITIN

If you do not have a Social Security Number, you will need to explore for one at a Social Security Administration office or online at ssa.gov. You will need your passport, proof of residency, and proof of your immigration status (such as a visa or I-94 arrival/departure record). The process usually takes one to two weeks.

If you are not may be able to access for a Social Security Number — for example, if you are in the country on a tourist visa — you can explore for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You explore through the IRS using Form W-7, and you will need the same documents: your passport, proof of residency, and proof of your immigration status. An ITIN takes about two to four weeks to arrive by mail.

Some states accept an ITIN in place of a Social Security Number for driver's license purposes. Check your state's DMV website to confirm whether your state accepts an ITIN before you explore for one.

State-by-state differences in requirements

Driver's license rules differ significantly across states. California, New York, and Illinois allow non-citizens to get a license without a Social Security Number, using an ITIN instead. Texas, Florida, and Georgia require a Social Security Number or proof that you are ineligible for one. Some states, like Washington and Colorado, have created special licenses for non-citizens that are marked differently from standard licenses.

Residency requirements also vary. Most states require you to have lived at your address for 30 days, but some require 60 or 90 days. A few states, like Nevada and South Dakota, have shorter residency windows or accept temporary addresses. Check your state's DMV website for the exact requirements before you gather documents.

The written test is available in multiple languages in most states, but the number of languages offered varies. California offers the test in 32 languages. New York offers it in 14. Smaller states may offer fewer options. If your language is not available, ask the DMV whether you can bring an interpreter.

What happens if you have a valid foreign driver's license

A valid driver's license from your home country can speed up the process in some states. A few states — including Arizona, Colorado, and Utah — waive the written test if you hold a valid foreign license. Most other states still require you to pass the written test, even if your foreign license is current.

Your foreign license does not replace the need for a U.S. license. You can drive legally in the United States on a foreign license for a limited time (usually 30 days to one year, depending on the state and your visa status), but you will need a U.S. license to rent a car, register a vehicle, or drive long-term. Some car rental companies will accept a foreign license with an International Driving Permit, but most require a U.S. license.

The written and practical driving tests

The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You will typically answer 30 to 50 multiple-choice questions, and you need to score 70 to 80 percent to pass (the exact threshold varies by state). The test is offered in multiple languages at most DMVs. You can usually schedule the test online or in person at your local DMV office.

The practical driving test involves driving with an examiner in your own vehicle or a DMV-provided vehicle. The examiner will ask you to perform basic maneuvers — parallel parking, three-point turns, lane changes — and will observe your overall driving behavior. The test usually lasts 20 to 30 minutes. You must have a valid learner's permit or a foreign license to take the practical test in most states.

If you fail either test, you can retake it. Most states allow you to retake the written test when ready or within a few days. The practical test usually requires you to wait a few days or weeks before you can schedule another attempt, depending on how busy your local DMV is.

Costs and processing times

The cost of a driver's license varies by state. Most states charge between $20 and $50 for a standard license, though some charge more for licenses that are valid for longer periods. A few states charge additional fees for non-citizens or for licenses that do not include a Social Security Number. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee.

Processing times also vary. Some states issue licenses on the same day you pass the tests. Others take one to two weeks to mail the license to you. A few states take longer if they need to verify your immigration status or your ITIN. Ask the DMV how long the process typically takes in your area before you explore.

What to bring to the DMV

Bring your passport or foreign driver's license, proof of residency (lease, utility bill, or bank statement), and your Social Security Number or ITIN. If you do not have a Social Security Number or ITIN yet, bring proof that you have applied for one — such as a receipt from the Social Security Administration or the IRS. Some states also require proof of your immigration status, such as a visa or I-94 record.

Bring the original documents, not copies. The DMV will make copies for you. If any of your documents are in a language other than English, bring a certified English translation as well. Some states accept notarized translations; others require translations from a certified translator. Call your local DMV ahead of time to ask what they accept.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a driver's license if I am on a tourist visa?

Yes, in most states. You will need to show proof of residency and either a Social Security Number or an ITIN. Some states require proof that you are ineligible for a Social Security Number before they will issue a license to someone on a tourist visa. Check your state's DMV website or call ahead to confirm.

What if my state requires a Social Security Number and I cannot get one?

Contact your state's DMV to ask whether you can use an ITIN instead, or whether there is a waiver process for people who are ineligible for a Social Security Number. Some states have created alternative licenses for non-citizens who cannot obtain a Social Security Number. A few states will not issue a license without one.

How long is a U.S. driver's license valid?

Most states issue licenses that are valid for four to eight years. Some states issue shorter licenses (two to four years) to non-citizens or to people without a Social Security Number. Check your state's DMV website to see how long your license will be valid.

Can I use my foreign driver's license to rent a car in the U.S.?

Most car rental companies require a U.S. driver's license. Some will accept a foreign license with an International Driving Permit, but policies vary by company and location. Call the rental company ahead of time to ask what they accept. An International Driving Permit is not a replacement for a U.S. license — it is a translation of your foreign license.

What if I fail the practical driving test?

You can retake it after a waiting period, which is usually a few days to a few weeks depending on how busy your local DMV is. You will need to pay the test fee again. Some states allow you to retake the test the next day; others require you to wait longer. Ask the DMV how long you must wait before scheduling another attempt.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.