How do I get a US drivers licence?

[cornwallloz 1]

I've been trying to read what to do online, but I'm still not sure if I have to take a driving test and what sort of appointment I should schedule to get my licence here. I have a UK drivers licence, and I'm now living in Florida. I have probably been driving on my foreign licence for far too long and I've been putting it off because I'm not sure how to do it! Please help!

[Harpa Timsah 13,258]

Each state issues their own DLs, so you will need to read up on the rules for Florida.

Google "Florida DMV" or "Florida Driver's license" and find the rules.

[Pitaya 2,577]

http://www.dmvflorida.org/drivers-license.shtml

[Girl from Celebes 588]

I've been trying to read what to do online, but I'm still not sure if I have to take a driving test and what sort of appointment I should schedule to get my licence here. I have a UK drivers licence, and I'm now living in Florida. I have probably been driving on my foreign licence for far too long and I've been putting it off because I'm not sure how to do it! Please help!

My husband and I went to DMV in Key West, FL, the other day. We did not have an appointment - my husband renew his car registration and license plate-. My husband suggested you go to DMV in Orlando to get better idea how it works.

Here the link about DMV in Orlando.

http://www.dmvflorida.org/orlando-dmv.shtml

[cc13 25]

My husband had four attempts going to the DMV for his license here in Florida... it is not one of his more liked "Welcome to America" experiences.... Here are a couple of links that may prove useful. The GoGatherGet one, is very useful as it will tell you exactly what you need to bring based on your immigration status.

http://www.gathergoget.com/

http://www.flhsmv.gov/html/dlnew.html

Edited May 27, 2014 by cc13

[cornwallloz 1]

My husband had four attempts going to the DMV for his license here in Florida... it is not one of his more liked "Welcome to America" experiences.... Here are a couple of links that may prove useful. The GoGatherGet one, is very useful as it will tell you exactly what you need to bring based on your immigration status.

http://www.gathergoget.com/

http://www.flhsmv.gov/html/dlnew.html

Thanks for the links, and all the ones above, they are all ones that I have read before. What confuses me is the Florida DMV website at first says that once they see the right ID, a card will be issued within 30 days. But then underneath that it goes on about needing to take a first time drivers test and alcohol course. Getting to the DMV is a very long way for me, I can't really afford to go without knowing if its just a matter of bringing documents or if I need to complete tests etc. I don't want to go down there and just be turned away. Did your husband have to take a test?

Edited May 27, 2014 by cornwallloz

[cc13 25]

My husband had four attempts going to the DMV for his license here in Florida... it is not one of his more liked "Welcome to America" experiences.... Here are a couple of links that may prove useful. The GoGatherGet one, is very useful as it will tell you exactly what you need to bring based on your immigration status.

http://www.gathergoget.com/

http://www.flhsmv.gov/html/dlnew.html

Thanks for the links, and all the ones above, they are all ones that I have read before. What confuses me is the Florida DMV website at first says that once they see the right ID, a card will be issued within 30 days. But then underneath that it goes on about needing to take a first time drivers test and alcohol course. Getting to the DMV is a very long way for me, I can't really afford to go without knowing if its just a matter of bringing documents or if I need to complete tests etc. I don't want to go down there and just be turned away. Did your husband have to take a test?

first off, if you have all the docs and jump through the hoops of fire they want for extra paperwork (or just bring it all the first time.. unlike us) , it is issued on the spot, when you pass the written and road test.

yes, he had to do the driving test. but seriously, it is not a big deal. if you have driven a car EVER you will be fine... . it is basic . he left the parking lot of the DMV was asked to turn right onto a road then back into parking lot where he did a 3 point turn and pulled into a parking space. that was it. you might want to review the written test questions... as they are all multiple choice but do have questions set out to fool you, if you read them twice, never having driven in america you will still do fine.

best of luck

it is the paperwork needed to be able to take the test that is the kicker... as long as you have that you are golden.