Applying for a State Driver's License
F-1 Visa students must present original immigration documents – not copies – when applying for a driver's license from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Required documents include
- Passport – must be valid for at least 60 days after the date you apply for your driver's license
- I-20 or DS-2019 form – must be valid for at least 60 days after the date you apply for your driver's license
- Printout of your I-94 Arrival/Departure record
- Proof of residence – you must provide at least two documents that include your name and address. Examples
include
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- Rental or lease agreement with the signature of the owner (landlord) and the tenant (resident)
- Utility bill
- Employment documents
- Medical documents
- Proof of payment of resident tuition at a public institution of higher education located in California
- Change of Address confirmation by the U.S. Postal Service (Form CNL 107).
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Be sure to bring your driver’s license from your home country to present to the officer at the DMV, as it may exempt you from the driving test.