Updated April 22, 2026
Driving License in United States for Expats
Yes, for 30-90 days depending on state. After that, you must convert to a United States license. Good news: the official test is available in English.
Key Facts: United States Driving License for Expats
- Test Authority
- DMV — Department of Motor Vehicles (varies by state)
- Official Test Language
- English, Spanish (most states)
- Grace Period
- 30-90 days depending on state
- Processing Time
- 1-2 weeks (same day in some states)
- Theory Test Required
- Yes (if no exchange agreement)
- Practical Test Required
- Yes (if no exchange agreement)
- Medical Exam
- Not required
- Total Cost
- $20-$90 (license fee only, no driving school required)
Eligibility by Nationality
EU/EEA Citizens
Must obtain a US license. Requirements vary by state. Foreign license valid temporarily.
US/UK Citizens
US citizens moving between states may need to transfer license. UK citizens must obtain new license.
Other Non-EU Citizens
Must obtain a US license. Some states accept foreign licenses for a limited period.
Students
Most states allow students to drive with foreign license and IDP. Some states issue licenses to F-1 visa holders.
Required Documents
- ✓Valid passport
- ✓Visa or immigration documents
- ✓Social Security Number (or SSN ineligibility letter)
- ✓Proof of state residency (two documents)
- ✓Foreign driving license (if applicable)
- ✓I-94 arrival record
Costs Breakdown
- Conversion/Exam Fee
- $20-$90 (varies by state)
- Medical Exam
- Not required for standard license
- Translation
- Not usually required
- Total Estimated
- $20-$90 (license fee only, no driving school required)
License Exchange Agreements
Direct Exchange (No Test Required) · 5
License Exchange Agreements
Direct Exchange (No Test Required) · 5
Canada (most states)Germany (some states)South Korea (some states)France (some states)Taiwan (some states)
No Agreement (Full Test Required): Most countries - full written and road tests required
Tips for Expats in United States
- Each state has its own DMV and rules - research your specific state
- Social Security Number (SSN) required in most states
- REAL ID compliant license recommended for domestic flights
- Test available in English and Spanish in most states
- No mandatory driving school in most states - can self-study
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive in the US with my foreign license?
You can drive temporarily with a valid foreign license and International Driving Permit (IDP) in most states. The grace period is typically 30-90 days after establishing residency, depending on the state.
Do I need a Social Security Number to get a US license?
Most states require an SSN. If you are not eligible for one (e.g., on certain visa types), you can obtain an SSN ineligibility letter from the Social Security Administration to present at the DMV.
What is a REAL ID and do I need one?
REAL ID is a federal standard for state-issued IDs. Since May 2025, you need a REAL ID compliant license (or passport) to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings. It is recommended when applying for a new license.
Can I take the DMV test in a language other than English?
Most states offer the written test in Spanish, and some states offer additional languages including Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and others. Check your state DMV for available languages.
Do I need to take driving lessons in the US?
Most states do not require formal driving lessons for adults (18+). You can self-study for the written test and practice driving with a licensed driver before taking the road test.