Being one of the most technologically advanced countries globally, the US is always one step ahead – and so do its people. The workforce is huge, and most people drive to work, so acquiring a driving license is imperative.
Hedges & Company quotes that 9 out of 10 people residing in the United States of America drive, which makes a total of 243.4 million licensed drivers in the country. Immigrants are not excluded from the rule and must get a driving license if they plan to drive on the roads in America one day. Now, one may question how an immigrant applies for a driving license. What is the procedure? Is it even necessary? And much more.
This blog post will guide you in applying for a US driver’s license as an immigrant, but before that, let us discuss how important it is to earn a driver’s license in the US.
Why Is It Important To Obtain a Driver’s License In The US, Especially As An Immigrant?
A driver’s license is quite precisely a document that legally qualifies you as a driver in the United States. Here is why it is so important to have one, especially as an immigrant:
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Legal Requirement:
The US is a land of dreams and one of the most sought-after places to settle down. One of the factors contributing to its popularity is how strong the law and order is. If you are in the US, you must strictly follow the government’s guidelines, or there will be consequences.
Just like not having cheap auto insurance in Garland could lead to tickets, fines, and license confiscations, not having a license could also lead to the same consequences, even more so given you are an immigrant. There is always a fear of deportation.
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Mobility:
As an immigrant, a driver’s license gives you the freedom and mobility to go about your day as you want in the US. Be it grocery shopping, business appointments, or any household errands you need to run; mobility is a much-needed facility.
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Entrepreneurship opportunities:
The quality of life you lead in the country comes down to your actions. As an immigrant, it is difficult to establish yourself in a foreign land. Acquiring a driver’s license gives you the mobility to help fulfill your entrepreneurial pursuits, including all sorts of business-related activities. Find a reliable car insurance agency for commercial auto cover if you use your car for commercial purposes.
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Assimilation:
Integrating into an American Society is the most important aspect of living in the US. By acquiring a license, you uphold the standards the state sets for the commitment to the nation.
Are Immigrants Allowed to Apply For a Drivers License in the US?
In most states of the US, immigrants are eligible to apply for a driver’s license. However, it exclusively depends on what state you are living in and what your immigration status is. There are varying rules and regulations in different states around the United States. In some places, you are also allowed to use the foreign license you have from 6 to 12 months.
A list of some states in the US that allow immigrants to obtain a driver’s license are:
1) California
2) Colorado
3) Connecticut
4) Delaware
5) Minnesota
6) Nevada
7) New Jersey
8) New Mexico
9) New York
10) Oregon
11) Rhode Island
What Are Some Driver’s License Requirements For Immigrants?
The most common requirements while applying for a driver’s license in the US as an immigrant are:
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State Residency:
You could be required to be a resident in your state to qualify for a driver’s license. Again, the residency requirements vary from state to state.
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Legal Presence:
Having a valid immigration status, proper work permit, and other affiliated documents is very necessary to qualify for applying for a driver’s license.
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Identification Documents:
Needless to say, you must possess valid identification documents when applying for a driver’s license anywhere; this includes a passport, your arrival and departure records, utility bills, and other contracts that prove your residency, etc.
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Proof of Insurance:
Auto Insurance in Garland is a requirement for obtaining a driver’s license, which is consistent with the regulations of every state in the US; the coverage requirements and limits may vary, but proof of insurance is a MUST-HAVE before applying.
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Vision and Knowledge Test:
You are required to pass a basic knowledge test comprising knowledge regarding road signs, traffic regulations, etc. Along with that, a vision test is also required before applying for a license. You must fulfill the basic visual acuity standards to ensure it is safe for you to drive on the road.
Preparing For “The Test”
Now that you have a basic understanding of the requirements for a driver’s license let’s shift to how one applies for it:
- See if you fall in the eligibility criteria set by your state, mostly according to your immigration status. Some categories are excluded from acquiring a driver’s license.
- Accumulate proof of residency in the form of lease agreements, electricity bills, etc, as mentioned before.
- Gather all the other required documents. Refer to the paragraphs above to know what documents are important.
- Understand the driving regulations of your state. Your local DMV may provide material from which you can learn all the basics.
- Do your best on the written and vision tests.
- If applicable(based on age and state requirements), you may have to enroll in a driver’s education course to qualify for a license.
- Ace the road skills test. Remember, practice makes a man perfect!
- Purchase reliable car insurance and go to your local DMV office to finish the rest of the procedure.
- After fulfilling all the requirements and passing the compulsory test, you shall receive your much-awaited driver’s license.
- CELEBRATE!
In Conclusion:
It is not easy leaving your home country and moving to a foreign land, but some decisions are needed to be made. We hope this blog helps you navigate the complex procedure of applying for a driver’s license as an immigrant. All The Best!
