International Students and Driver’s License in Illinois

1. What are the regulations for international students obtaining a driver’s license in Illinois?


In order to obtain a driver’s license in Illinois, international students must meet all the same requirements as US citizens. This includes providing proof of identity, residency, and legal presence. In addition, they must pass a vision test, take a written examination, and complete a behind-the-wheel driving course. International students will also need to provide documents that prove they are in the United States on a valid visa or are eligible for employment. All international students must also have valid car insurance before applying for a driver’s license.

2. Are there special requirements for international students in Illinois to obtain a driver’s license?


Yes, there are. International students in Illinois must meet the same requirements as any other driver license applicant, but they must also provide additional documentation to prove their identity, age, legal status in the United States and their residence in the state. This includes a valid passport, visa or other immigration documents, and a document showing their current address.

3. How long do international students have to wait to obtain a driver’s license in Illinois?


In Illinois, international students may need to wait up to 90 days before they are eligible to apply for a driver’s license. International students must present valid immigration documents, Social Security number, proof of address, and other necessary documents to obtain a driver’s license.

4. Does Illinois accept foreign driver’s licenses from international students?


Yes, Illinois does accept foreign driver’s licenses from international students, provided that the license is valid in the student’s home country and that the student has a valid passport. An international student who wishes to drive in Illinois will need to obtain an International Driver’s License, which can be obtained through the American Automobile Association (AAA).

5. Are international students eligible to apply for a driver’s license in Illinois if they have valid student visas?


Yes, international students with a valid student visa are eligible to apply for a driver’s license in Illinois.

6. What documents do international students need to bring when applying for a driver’s license in Illinois?


International students applying for a driver’s license in Illinois must bring a valid passport, proof of their legal presence in the United States, their social security number (SSN), proof of Illinois residency, and proof of completion of a state-approved driver’s education course. The documents must be originals or certified copies.

7. Are there any restrictions on what type of vehicles international students can drive with a driver’s license in Illinois?


Yes, all drivers, including international students, must follow the restrictions set by the state of Illinois. Drivers must have a valid driver’s license, and any vehicles they operate must meet Illinois vehicle registration and safety requirements. Additional restrictions may also apply if the driver is under 18 years old.

8. What is the minimum age requirement for international students to obtain a driver’s license in Illinois?


In Illinois, the minimum age requirement for international students to obtain a driver’s license is 18 years old.

9. Is a written test an obligatory requirement for international students who want to obtain a driver’s license in Illinois?


No, a written test is not an obligatory requirement for international students who want to obtain a driver’s license in Illinois. In order to obtain a driver’s license, international students must provide documents proving their identity and residency, pass the vision test, and pass the driving test.

10. How long does it take for an international student to obtain a driver’s license in Illinois?


According to the Illinois Secretary of State website, international students can apply for a driver’s license once they can prove their identity, lawful presence, and residency in Illinois. To prove these things, they must present documentation from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or from their school. The process of obtaining a driver’s license can take anywhere from 1-3 weeks depending on availability of the documents presented.

11. Is there a grace period for an international student to renew their driver’s license in Illinois?


Yes, international students can renew their driver’s license up to one year after it has expired without penalty or additional requirements.

12. Are there any special benefits or discounts for international student drivers with a license in Illinois?


Some auto insurance companies in the Illinois area offer special discounts for international students. These discounts are usually based on the student’s scholastic record, and can range from 5-25% off of the regular rate. It is important to compare insurance companies to check for any additional discounts or benefits that may be available.

13. Can an international student use their foreign driving experience when applying for a driver’s license in Illinois?


Yes, an international student may use their foreign driving experience when applying for a driver’s license in Illinois, provided they can provide proof of the experience.

14. Does Illinois require international students to take additional tests if they want to obtain a driver’s license?


Yes, international students in Illinois must take the same tests as US citizens to obtain a driver’s license, plus an additional written test.

15. Are there any restrictions on the type of cars that an international student can drive with a driver’s license in Illinois?


Yes, international students with a valid driver’s license from their home country can drive in Illinois. However, the vehicle must be registered and insured in Illinois, and the driver must have an Illinois Drivers License. Additionally, for certain types of vehicles, such as motorcycles or large commercial vehicles, the driver may need to have additional licensing.

16. What is the process of obtaining a driver’s license for an international student residing in Illinois?


To obtain a driver’s license for an international student residing in Illinois, the student must first obtain a valid U.S. passport or visa. The student must then pass a written knowledge test, a vision test, and driving skills test. Afterwards, the student must pay the application fee and submit the required documents to the Secretary of State’s office. The documents required include proof of identity, two proofs of residency, a social security number or letter of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration, and the student’s international driver’s license. Once the student has passed all tests and submitted all required documents, the Secretary of State’s office will issue the student a driver’s license.

17. Can an international student transfer their foreign driver’s license to Illinois?


No, international students are not able to transfer their foreign driver’s license to Illinois. To obtain a driver’s license in Illinois, an individual must meet all the requirements and pass the written and road tests.

18. Is there any specialized training or courses available for international student drivers in Illinois?


Yes, there are specialized training and courses available for international student drivers in Illinois. The International Student Driving Program offered by the Illinois Secretary of State provides a comprehensive driving education program that is specifically designed for international students, which includes driver’s license testing, driver’s education classes, and behind-the-wheel driving instruction.

19. Can an international student exchange their foreign driver’s license for one from Illinois?


No, an international student cannot exchange their foreign driver’s license for one from Illinois. International students must pass a written and/or road test in order to receive an Illinois driver’s license.

20. Do the laws concerning obtaining a driver’s license differ for international students compared with other residents of Illinois?


Yes, the laws differ for international students compared to other residents of Illinois. International students must provide proof of lawful presence in the United States, such as an F-1 visa, I-20 form, or a valid passport, to obtain a driver’s license. Additionally, international students may need to pass an additional road skills test and present additional documents to verify their identity.