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In the United States, not all foreigners can choose a standard driver’s license . Those who have a tourist visa must apply for an international driving permit, while the undocumented have some benefits in certain states such as California, where the AB exists 60, a special driver’s license that grants the privilege to this sector of the population . On the other hand, those foreigners who are legal residents have the possibility of requesting this document, but also those who have a student visa, as long as they meet the following requirements:
1. Complete a driver’s license application form issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) of the state where you reside.
2. Schedule an appointment with the DMV. In many states, it can be done by calling a local DMV office or using the services that this agency has arranged online. The California DMV, for example, allows this through their official site .
3. Present proof of identity . In the case of foreigners, an I – 94 or a Green Card will be required.
4. Present documents that certify your address in the state where you apply for the license.
5. Pay the fees corresponding to the application for a driver’s license with the state DMV .
6. The DMV will take photos of the applicant. Your fingerprints may also be taken.
7. The applicant must pass an eye exam, but also a driving test, which is nothing more than a practical assessment that he will carry out in the company of a DMV agent to demonstrate your driving skills . This requirement is essential and mandatory even though the applicant has completed it in their country of origin.
8. Once all the steps are completed, the applicant will receive a provisional driver’s license with a validity of 90 days (3 months) , which is the estimated time for the DMV to deliver the credential original by mail, depending on the place of residence indicated by the corresponding documents.
For all US citizens of legal age, a driver’s license is essential to be able to operate any type of vehicle. In the case of foreigners residing in the country, this document acquires greater importance due to a constant: their immigration status. In that sense, it is best to take all the necessary measures to carry out this procedure before considering driving without a license in any part of the territory, a crime which can have serious consequences .
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