US Driving Licence?

[chloe 1]

www.international-license.com

Hi all,

Just wondering if anyone has any experience of the International Driving Document

Seems like a handy thing, but looks potentially dodgy?

Anyone done this before?

X Chloe

Edited November 24, 2006 by chloe

[Candace 2]

This looks handy for if you have a license in a foreign language and need to rent a car, but you don't mean for living in the US?

Some states allow holders of certain countries' licenses to forego the driving and/or written examination, check out the Department of Licensing for the state you are living in/moving to. But to my knowledge you cannot drive permanently in the US on a UK license for example.

[Waiting in Vancouver 6]

I know all states are different but this is what I found in the FAQ for Illinois Driver License web site (Illinois is the state where I live). Visit the website for the state that you are in/moving to and you will probably find the answers similiar to these.

I hold an International License. Is this valid in Illinois?

No. This license is not recognized as a valid drivers license in Illinois.

I also found this on the Illinois web site.

I'm visiting from another country. Can I drive?

You may drive in Illinois with your valid license from your own country during your stay. This also applies to your spouse and children, living with you while attending an Illinois college or university. You may want to read Illinois' Rules of the Road.

And then this.

I just moved to Illinois. How do I get a driver's license and Illinois license plates?

As a new Illinois resident, you may continue to drive on your valid out-of-state driver's license for 90 days. CDL holders must obtain an Illinois CDL within 30 days of becoming an Illinois resident.

Just so you know CDL means Commercial Drivers License.

Edited November 25, 2006 by Waiting in Vancouver

[KarenCee 3]

Before my husband was able to get a GA DL we were told to get an International Driver's License from AAA. This information came from the DMV. What a load of bull! The AAA says they do NOT issue a driver's permit for this reason. We had to finally wait til his EAD came through to get his license. *sighs* Don't get me started on THAT experience...it was horrendous.

[laptop 0]

I used to hold an International licence - never did me any good - in any any country - ever!!

Generally, you can drive in the USA on your UK licence for 90 Days. You may find it a bit of a hassle to get insurance on a UK licence - but call around and you will get it sorted.

I went to the DMV as soon as i got here to get the forms and the Highway Code (which is free).

You need to have your Social Security No in order to take the test - as well as your passport and birth certificate.

You take a written (multiple choice) test first, then a few days later you do the driving test.

I did mine a few weeks ago - all very easy - your licence comes in the mail 2 weeks later.

Good Luck!!

[alix 20]

I guess it depends from State to State. I'd check with the DMV in your city.

I got my Arizona Driver's license with only my passport in hand (and a tourist visa!). I had to take both the written and the road tests (I guess it's because I'm from Brazil). The only thing is that the validity of the card is the same as my I-94. I renewed it when we moved to another city. I'll have to renew it when I get back because it's only valid until December (I've been away from the US since July). I won't have my SSN by then (I heard it takes a bit longer than the GC), so I hope it won't be an issue.

I had an international license but not one insurance company will accept it, that's why I went ahead and got the Arizona one. At least I can drive my husband's care and not be afraid of an accident.

[pj1959us 0]

All states are different so you will want to review your state's requirements and whether or not an International license is recognized. If you look at your state's DMV website it will outline what documents you will need to obtain a license and how to prove residency. Not all states will mail the license, David just went in and after his very short driving test (around the block ), written test, photo and paying the $10.00 got his license handed to him. He was astounded!