According to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), you can drive
in New York State with a valid driver license from another state or country, as long
as it has not expired. While you aren’t required by the DMV to have an International
Driving Permit, the permit verifies in several languages that you have a valid driver
license. This is helpful to police officers who can’t read the language on your foreign
driver license.
An International Driving Permit can only be obtain in your home country. Contact
the authorities in your home country to get an International Driving Permit.
Can I buy car insurance and register my car in NY State if I only have a foreign driver's license? Yes, you can do both. HOWEVER, car insurance, which is mandatory in New York State,
may be more expensive if you don't have a U.S. driver's license. Insurance companies
often add a surcharge to the cost of your insurance if you don't have a U.S. driver's
license. Some automobile insurers believe that you need a NYS driver's license.
Applying for a NYS Driver's License
Eligiblity
You are eligible to apply for a NYS driver's license if you have a valid Form I-20,
DS-2019 or H-1B approval notice (I-797).
Your eligibility to apply for a New York State license is tied to your program dates.
Your authorized status in the U.S. must have a total duration of at least one year,
AND you must have at least 6 months remaining before the current expiration date on
your Form I-20, DS-2019 or H-1B approval notice (I-797).
How to Apply
Step 1: Study the NYS Driver's Manual
This is the “rules of the road” book. When you drive in NYS, you are expected to know,
and abide by, these rules. View the online manual here.
Step 2: Visit the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and Submit Application
Visit the DMV, fill out the application and pay the fee for the driver's license. Use the DMV’s Document Guide webpage to find out what documents you need to apply. You must bring originals of all your
documentation.
If you do not have a SSN or qualify for one, the DMV no longer requires a denial letter
from Social Security. You can complete the DMV form (click here) and sign it in the presence of a DMV representative.
NYS driver’s license fee rates for first-time drivers in the U.S. are available at
the DMV website (look for your age under Class D driver’s license). Non-U.S. citizens are only eligible
for a Standard IDs (not Enhanced or REAL IDs).
The closest DMV office to Stony Brook University is located at 250 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Hauppauge, NY 11788.
Step 3: Take a Written Permit Test
The written permit test is based on the information in the Manual. You will take this exam at the DMV.
You have the option of taking this exam online and when you pass, scheduling a reservation
with the DMV to complete application. The DMV website provides instructions on how to take the online exam. If you choose to complete
the exam online, you would do this BEFORE visiting the DMV office.
Step 4: Complete a 5-hour Mandatory Pre-licensing Course
Search through the DMV website for Pre-Licensing Courses near your zip code.
Step 5: Pass a Road Test
After you have completed steps #1-4, you may make an appointment for a road test when
you are ready to be tested.
Note: When you pass your road test, you will be required to surrender your foreign driver
license to the DMV road test examiner. The local DMV office will destroy your foreign
driver license after 60 days. If you plan to return to your home country and will
need your foreign driver license, ask the road test examiner how to make sure that
your foreign driver license is not destroyed.
Step 6: Stay Safe on the Road!
Driving while intoxicated (“DWI”) is a very serious crime in New York State. Do not
drink and drive.
In New York State, you must have a “hands-free device” to use your cell phone in the
car.
You must always wear your seat belt — it's the law!
