Can I drive in the U.S. with a foreign license?

The short answer: yes! 

All states allow foreign visitors to drive with foreign driver’s license for a certain period of time, but there are some conditions to be aware of that vary state by state. 

If your license is in a foreign language, for instance, you may also need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP). An IDP is certified proof accepted in 150 countries around the world that translates your foreign license into English along with your name, photograph, and driving privileges.

How to apply for a U.S. driver’s license

Once you are ready to apply for a U.S. driver’s license, the process is relatively straightforward with the following steps.

Contact your nearest Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)

You should first contact your local DMV, the U.S. government office responsible for licensing, to understand their specific rules and requirements.

You will need to book an appointment for your driver’s license with your local branch of the DMV, which you can typically do online or over the phone.