Resources > Orientation

Living in the US

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...

www.fusia.net/safedriving

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

www.fusia.net/safedriving

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.

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