Introduction
State ID, License & Driving

To drive a car in the US, a driver’s license is required. A driver’s license can be used as proof of photo identification. Participants who don’t want to carry their passport around and don’t plan to drive a car may apply for a state-issued ID.

Part 1 Driver’s license
Part 2 Renting vs. buying a car
Part 3 Auto insurance and registration
Part 4 Police stops
Part 5 Traffic violations
Part 6 Car accidents
Part 7 Driving rules and etiquette
Part 8 I wanna ask...

Part 1 Driver’s license
State ID, License & Driving

Most states allow foreigners to drive with a valid, unexpired foreign license in English, but some states and car rental companies require an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a state-issued driver’s license. Participants without an IDP may apply for a state-issued driver’s license, but note that some states have minimum residency rules - Find out from your state’s motor vehicle field office for more information.

Step 1 Activate SEVIS record
Step 2 Gather required documents

If eligible to apply, gather the following documents, and then apply for your driver’s license or state ID by visiting the nearest motor vehicle field office of your state. Below lists the documentation required by most states when applying for a state-issue ID or driver’s license.

• Passport with your valid admission stamp and your visa
• Social Security Card
• Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record – Click HERE
• Form DS-2019 (original) with an Active status in SEVIS
• Two documents to establish your state residency
• Money to pay any fees

NOTE: The rules vary by state. Some states refer to the DMV as the Motor Vehicle Administration or Registry of Motor Vehicles

Part 2 Renting vs. buying a car
State ID, License & Driving

America is a country with expansive road networks, and many places require residents to have a car to get around. To drive in the US, participants may rent or buy a car. To rent a car, partipants can use carsharing or traditional car rental services. To purchase a car, participants may buy one online or at a dealership.

• Car rental, e.g., Zipcar (carsharing) or Enterprise (traditional)
• Get expert assistance
• Ensure the validity of the seller
• Evaluate the car’s condition, as used cars may have hidden issues

Part 3 Auto insurance and registration
State ID, License & Driving

In most states, auto insurance and valid registration are mandatory. Common car insurance companies are GEICO and State Farm. Registration can be obtained from your local DMV.

• Insurance types: Liability coverage (minimum), collision, comprehensive, etc.
• Taking a state-certified defensive driving course can save on car insurance/deduct points from driving records
• AAA offers roadside assistance, insurance and registration in one package

Part 4 Police stops
State ID, License & Driving

If you are driving and you notice red and blue flashing lights following you, it means that an emergency vehicle (police/firetruck/ambulance) is approaching you. Do the following in such situations:

• Pull your car over to the side of the road to let the emergency vehicle through
• Wait for the vehicle to pass before continuing on

If pulled over by police (they may speak through a megaphone), it is likely that you violated traffic laws. If you find yourself in this situation,

• Turn on your hazard lights and pull your car over slowly to a clear spot
• Turn off ignition, lower window, stay inside, and keep your hands on the wheel
• When prompted, hand over your license and registration

The officer will come to your window and give a reason for pulling you over. They should ask for your license and registration, then go back to their vehicle to look up your record. If you have no outstanding warrants, they will return your documents and give you a ticket, if applicable.

Other general advice/information for when you are pulled over:

• Do not panic, make sudden movements, or argue with the officer
• You can ask for the officer’s badge number to make sure they are legitimate
• The officer may perform a breathalyzer test to determine if you are DUI/DWI

Part 5 Traffic violations
State ID, License & Driving

In the US, traffic violations are generally considered civil infractions/violations. Listed below are the common traffic violations.

• Distracted Driving (e.g, texting while driving)
• Reckless Driving (e.g., speeding, running a red light or disobeying a sign)
• Driving under the influence
• Stalled vehicle, loading and unloading in prohibited areas, other parking violations, etc.

If you are caught violating parking/traffic rules, you will get a ticket with an explanation. Listed below are the general consequences.

• Paying a fine
• Losing “points” for major offenses like speeding/running red lights
• License will be suspended if there are too many points deducted over a set period
• Driver record, car insurance rates, and coverage eligibility get affected

If you don’t agree with the fine, you can dispute the ticket by going to court. If you owe a fine, pay immediately to avoid penalties.

Part 6 Car accidents
State ID, License & Driving

If you commit any traffic violations or get involved in a car accident during the program, report them to FUSIA immediately.

• Dial 911 to report the incident
• Stay calm and follow instructions from emergency personnel
• If there are other occupants in the car, check if they have any injuries
• Stay inside the vehicle to avoid more injuries unless the situation is dire (e.g., fire)
• Take note of the license plate number, car model, and the other involved driver
• When the police arrive, give them your license, registration, and insurance documents
• Try to get the name, address, phone number, and insurance provider of the other driver
• If you hit a parked car, write down your details and put it on the parked car’s windshield
• Do not “hit and run,” which can result in severe legal consequences.

After the accident, report to your insurance company immediately. You will most likely be asked to complete a form by your and the other car’s insurance company. Obtain a police report (usually available 24-48 hours after the incident) and complete the necessary procedures.

Part 7 Driving rules and etiquette
State ID, License & Driving

There are many things one should remember when driving or riding a car in the US. The list below provides some important tips and rules both drivers and passengers alike should remember.

General rules
• Drive with a valid driver’s license and a car that is insured and registered
• Avoid getting a ride from any novice driver or from strangers (passenger)
• Drive a vehicle that has valid registration and liability insurance at the very least
• If you get a ticket, pay the fine by the deadline
• When pulled over by the police, stay inside the car and comply with their requests
• If you have a flat tire, pull over and call for assistance

Preparation and safety
• Have roadside assistance membership, e.g., AAA
• Keep your car well-maintained, in good working order and the gas tank at least half full
• Check and adjust air pressure reguarly
• Check the weather, traffic conditions, and state driving laws for road trips
• Have a plan for dealing with a flat tire (e.g., a spare tire and emergency tire sealant kit)
• Get a tune up and check for problems before any road trips
• Beware of vehicle theft, keep doors locked, and park in well-lit areas

Crash prevention
• Wear your seatbelt whether you are a driver or a passenger
• Do not distract the driver while driving (passenger)
• Do not drive while intoxicated (DWI) or under the influence (DUI)
• Do not multi-task while driving (e.g., drive while using your phone)
• Do not drive in bad weather/road conditions
• Keep your distance and observe speed limits

On the road
• Random honking is illegal in some states, e.g., California and New York
• Open alcoholic containers are not allowed in the car in most states
• Don’t perform hit and runs
• Keep your eyes on the road, and both hands on the wheel
• Yield for pedestrians
• Stop at least 10 feet away from a school bus with its stop sign extended
• Be careful around large vehicles (e.g., buses)
• Drive on the right side of the road
• Never pick up hitchhikers

Part 8 I wanna ask...
State ID, License & Driving

Can I drive in the US with my foreign license?
It depends on the state(s) where you plan to drive. In California, Massachusetts, and New York, you can drive as long as you have a valid, unexpired license that presents your information in English and is lawfully issued by the country that you reside in. Some car rental agencies may require an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to a foreign license.

If I don’t have a foreign license or my foreign license was issued in another language, how can I drive in the US?
If your driver’s license is not in English and you plan to drive in the US, you should obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your country of residence prior to your arrival. Alterinatively, you can apply for a driver’s license issued by the DMV in your state of residence after your arrival in the US.

Can I apply for two different state-issued driver’s licenses at the same time?
In most states, you can only hold one driver’s license. Generally, you apply from your state of residency.

Can I skip the written/road test if I have a driver’s license from another country?
Most states recognize international driver’s licenses but require at least a written test. Georgia requires a US driver’s license for foreigners. Some states have reciprocal treaties with another country; for example, in Massachusetts, you are exempt from a written and road test if you have a foreign driver’s license from Canada, Mexico, South Korea, Germany, France, Taiwan, or one of the US territories. In California, a road test is required, regardless of your previous driving history.

Is car insurance a requirement?
Yes, car insurance is required in almost all states, whether you are temporarily renting a car or purchasing a car to use throughout your program. Most car rental agencies offer rental car insurance. If you purchase a car, popular car insurance companies in the US include Geico, State Farm, Allstate, and Progressive. Basic car insurance is known as liability insurance.

Will all states add the 30 or 60-day grace period to a driver’s license validity period?
No, not every state adds the 30 or 60-day period after the program end date to the driver’s license for an initial applicant and/or an applicant renewing a driver’s license. Many states choose to issue a benefit that is only valid until the program end date listed on the Form DS-2019. A nonimmigrant should consult with the local DMV office before applying for a state driver’s license or renewing a driver’s license.

Can I convert my license from another state in the US?
Provided that you have been to the US before, that you don’t have any physical disability or prior criminal history, and that you have a driver’s license from another US state which has not expired (or expired less than a year ago), you may renew or convert to another state’s license by paying the required fees. Proof of residence in the current state, along with proof of your current exchange visitor status, is required.

Why are driver’s licenses vertical in some states?
The layout of the license for under-21 drivers is vertical rather than horizontal format, so food servers and bartenders will more quickly be able to identify the holder as underage and therefore unable to be served alcohol.

No Results