Can I use my foreign driver's license in the United States?
Yes – a valid driver's license from another country is also valid in New York State (NYS). While a resident of another country with a driver's license from the country can obtain a NYS driver's license, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) does not recommend this unless you become a resident of NYS.
You may wish to obtain an International Driving Permit. The permit only verifies that you hold a valid driver’s license in your home country. Your foreign driver’s license, not the International Driving Permit, allows you to drive in NYS. Contact the authorities in your home country to get an International Driving Permit. If you are not a resident of the U.S., you cannot apply for an International Driving Permit in the U.S.
You are not required to have an International Driving Permit to drive in NYS, but the permit has value because it verifies, in several languages including English, that you have a valid foreign driver's license. Any police officer who cannot read the language on your foreign driver's license can read the International Driving Permit.
How do I get a New York state driver's license?
If you do not have a driver's license from your home country, view the steps involved in obtaining a NYS driver's license on the .
You will need to pass a written test to obtain your license. Go online to find some .
If you have never driven before, the DMV recommends you take a driver education course. Search the web for driving schools in the area.
The first step in obtaining a NYS driver's license is to gather proofs of identify and date of birth. Find more information on the .
Please note that the New York DMV does not accept electronic signatures on I-20s. If you plan to apply for a New York driver's license, you should request a hard copy I-20 from ISSS using the .
If I don't have a Social Security Number (SSN), how can I get a NYS driver's license?
If you are going to be working on-campus while attending 91ÉçÇø, you must apply for a Social Security Number. Once you get your SSN, you can begin the process of applying for a driver's license.
If you will not be working, you can still apply for a Standard New York driver license. The explains the documents needed for a Standard license if you do not have an SSN.
Can I buy a car in the U.S.?
Yes, but it is a complicated (and expensive) process. You should read the requirements for buying or selling a vehicle on the .
The ISSS recommends that, if you purchase a car, it should be from a major car dealership only, and not from an individual. If you have any problems with the car after you buy it, it is easier to work with a dealership. It is extremely difficult to hold a private seller responsible if the car needs repairs.
There are several tools available for finding both new and used cars sold by dealerships:
NOTE: By listing these websites, 91ÉçÇø is not recommending any particular website or dealership.
Owning a car in the U.S. can be costly, so be sure you understand the total cost of ownership, including car insurance costs.
Will I need insurance on my car?
Yes! The ISSS strongly recommends you get quotes from different insurance companies.
The DMV has information about car insurance on their website. Note that, while NYS has some minimum insurance levels, the DMV recommends you consider increasing the amounts of your liability coverages, depending on your needs and the assets you would like to protect. Agents from any of the major insurance companies can help you in obtaining the proper coverage.
What should I do if my NYS driver's license has or will expire?
Your NYS driver's license has two dates:
The bottom one is when your license expires.
The top one is when your I-20/DS-2019 expires.
If you have obtained an extension of stay, or have an Optional Practical Training (OPT) card, you should go to the DMV so the "immigration expiration" date on your license can be adjusted.
You can be issued a ticket for driving past the "immigration expiration" date if you are stopped for a traffic violation. If you can prove to the court that your immigration status did not actually expire, you may be able to contest the ticket.
ISSS strongly recommends that you always carry your passport and I-20/DS-2019 when driving so you can always show proof of a valid immigration status. This can help to ensure the U.S. Border Patrol is not called if you are pulled over for a routine traffic stop.
Do I need a NYS ID?
No – your passport or driver's license serve as proof of age. You can learn more information by visiting our New York State Identification Card webpage.
What is DWI and DWAI?
DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) and DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) – by alcohol or drugs – are extremely dangerous and considered very serious crimes throughout the U.S. The ISSS encourages you to NEVER drive after having anything to drink. The cost of a taxi is much cheaper than the consequences of a . If you are arrested for alcohol or drug-related driving charges, you will likely face criminal penalties, and your F-1 or J-1 visa will be automatically revoked by the U.S. Department of State. If you are arrested for a DWI/DWAI, it is important that you speak with an ISSS advisor as soon as possible so that we can help you.