Visa Categories
Driver's License & Pennsylvania State ID
Most nonimmigrants in lawful status can apply for a driver's license or a State ID card. Even if you don't plan to drive in the U.S., applying for a State Identification Card is advisable. This way, you can securely leave your passport at home and carry the State ID as your primary identification.
If you possess a valid foreign driver's license from your home country, you are authorized to drive in Pennsylvania for up to one year from entering the United States or until your foreign license expires, whichever comes first. While international driving permits are highly recommended, they are not mandatory.
Please be aware that several states, including Pennsylvania, require that nonimmigrants should have at least six months remaining on their qualifying immigration document to be eligible for a driver's license.
Notably, the Pennsylvania Department of Motor Vehicles no longer requires a verification letter from our office when applying for a Driver's License.
Below are the steps to apply and the supporting documents required to establish your legal presence in the United States.
To apply for an American driver's license or State ID:
Wait at least ten calendar days from your date of entry into the U.S. before applying for a driver's license or ID.
Be aware that several states require nonimmigrants to have a minimum of six months remaining on their immigration document (e.g., I-20, DS-2019, I-797, etc.) to be eligible for a driver's license. Temporary Workers with an original Receipt Notice from USCIS can extend their license eligibility.
- Valid Passport
- Valid U.S. Immigration Visa Stamp (except for Canadian nationals)
- I-94
- Two Documents to Prove PA Residency: This includes tax records, lease agreements, mortgage documents, W-2 forms, and utility bills (e.g., water, gas, electric, cable, etc.).
- Original DS-2019 (for J Exchange Visitors), or Original I-797 (for H-1B, O-1, some E-3s, and TNs). Note that several states require nonimmigrants to have at least six months remaining on their immigration document (e.g., I-20, DS-2019, I-797, I-20, etc.) to be eligible for a driver's license.
- Social Security Card (SSN), Receipt Notice, or Social Security Rejection Letter.
- A physical examination conducted by a physician, physician assistant, certified registered nurse practitioner, or chiropractor, and completion of Form DL-180, "Non-Commercial Learner’s Permit Application."
Please ensure you have all these documents ready for your application.