Driver’s License & State ID
During their authorized stay in the United States, international students might need or want to obtain a Driver’s License or State ID. In general, the following documents are Acceptable Identification Documents for international students and can be used for the appropriate document application:
- Your most recent I-20
- Group A, Written Signature: Passport and I-94 Record
- Group B, Date of Birth: F-1 Visa
- Group C, Social Security Number: Social Security Card or Form SSA-L676 (SSN letter of ineligibility)
- Group D, Letter on Official School Letterhead
- An Enrollment Verification Letter, issued by the Office of Registration and Records, can serve as “Letter on Official School Letterhead”
- On the “Enrollment Verification” request select “Enrollment Verification” and “Anticipated Degree Completion”
- Under Delivery Option choose “Mail” and write your address in the provided boxes
- A Tuition Invoice can be obtained from Student Financial Services
- An Enrollment Verification Letter, issued by the Office of Registration and Records, can serve as “Letter on Official School Letterhead”
The below sections are intended to provide you with information, eligibility and how to apply for each document.
DRIVER’S LICENSE
International students are able to drive on a valid foreign driver’s license for up to 90 days after your arrival in the U.S. After the initial 90 days International Students have two options for driving in Illinois:
- If you have a Social Security Number you may apply for a regular Driver’s License.
- If you do NOT have a Social Security Number you may apply for a Temporary Visitor’s Driver’s License (TVDL).
Applying for an Illinois Driver’s License
- Visit a Secretary of State facility
- Bring required identification documents
- Pay the appropriate fee
- $5 for persons age 18-20
- $30 for persons age 21+
- Pass the appropriate exams (vision screening, written and/or driving)
Applying for a Temporary Visitors Driver’s License (TVDL)
The following are general steps for applying for a Temporary Visitor’s Driver’s License.
- Visit the closest TVDL designated Secretary of State Facility
- TVDLs can only be obtained from designated locations
- Bring required identification documents
- Pay the appropriate fee ($30)
- Pass the appropriate exams (vision screening, written and/or driving)
STATE ID
If an international student does not want to obtain a driver’s license but still wants an identification card, they can apply for a State ID. State IDs can help prove identity when banking, traveling, or in other situations. Please note – international students that do not have a Social Security Number cannot obtain a State ID.
Applying for a State ID
The following are general steps for applying for a State ID.
- Visit a Secretary of State facility
- Bring required identification documents
- Pay the appropriate fee
- $5 for persons age under 18
- $20 for persons age 18+