How to get a U.S. driver's license

Driving licences are issued by each state, not by the federal government. There is no national licence: you apply at the motor vehicle agency of the state where you live, and the rules, fees and waiting times are different in every state.

Where

Your state's DMV (in some states: MVA, RMV, BMV or DPS)

Typical cost

$30–$90 for a first licence

How long

1–8 weeks, depending on appointment availability

You need

Identity, immigration status, Social Security number, two proofs of address

1. Check whether you can use your foreign licence first

Most states let a visitor drive on a valid foreign licence for a limited period — often 30 to 90 days after you become a resident. Some states also want an International Driving Permit (a translation of your licence) alongside it. An IDP is not a licence on its own and must be issued in the country where your licence was issued; nobody in the U.S. can sell you a valid one.

Once you become a resident of a state, that grace period starts running. Do not wait until it expires to book your appointment — appointment slots are often weeks out.

2. Gather your documents

Nearly every state asks for the same four things:

1. Proof of identity and date of birth — your passport.
2. Proof of lawful status — your visa and I-94 record, green card, or employment authorization document.
3. Your Social Security number — or, if you are not eligible for one, a letter from the Social Security Administration saying so. A few states issue licences without any SSN.
4. Two proofs of your address in that state — a lease, a utility bill, a bank statement, or official mail. Printouts of online statements are usually accepted; letters addressed to someone else are not.

3. Decide whether you want a REAL ID

Since 2025, a standard state licence is no longer enough to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. A REAL ID licence — marked with a star in the corner — is. Getting one requires the same documents listed above, so ask for a REAL ID at your first appointment rather than paying again later.

A U.S. passport also works for domestic flights, so a REAL ID is not strictly required if you always carry yours.

4. Pass the knowledge test

The written test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits and alcohol laws. Most states publish a free driver's handbook and a set of practice tests — read the handbook for your specific state, because the questions come from it.

Many states offer the test in several languages, and some allow an interpreter. Check your state's DMV site before assuming you must take it in English.

5. Pass the road test

You take the road test in a car you provide. The car must be registered, insured, and in working order — a burnt-out brake light is enough to have the test cancelled on the spot. You will normally need a licensed driver to accompany you to the appointment.

Common reasons people fail:

• rolling through a stop sign instead of coming to a complete stop
• not checking blind spots by turning the head (mirrors alone are not enough)
• driving too far below the speed limit
• hitting the curb while parking

6. Get your licence

Most states give you a paper temporary licence the same day and mail the plastic card within two to four weeks. Keep the temporary one with you until the card arrives — it is a valid licence.