International Students and Driver’s License in Kentucky

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


International students in Kentucky must have valid immigration documents and a foreign license to obtain a driver’s license. To obtain a driver’s license, international students must bring: their immigration documents, such as their passport and visa; their foreign driver’s license; two proofs of residency; and their Social Security number if available. International students must also pass a written and road test to obtain a driver’s license. Those under 18 must also meet the same requirements as other minors who apply for a driver’s license in Kentucky.

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


Yes. According to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, international students must show that their presence in the United States is authorized under federal law and provide a valid passport or visa. Additionally, they must provide proof of residency in Kentucky, a valid Social Security number or proof they are ineligible for one, proof of name and date of birth, and pass a vision screening and written and/or driving tests.

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


International students do not have to wait to obtain a driver’s license in Kentucky. As long as they have a valid passport, visa, and I-20 form, they can apply for a driver’s license immediately.

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


Yes, Kentucky does accept foreign driver’s licenses from international students. However, foreign drivers must possess an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by their home country and a valid passport in order to drive legally in Kentucky.

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


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

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


International students applying for a driver’s license in Kentucky need to bring the following documents:

1. Proof of legal presence in the United States (passport, visa, I-94, I-20, etc.)
2. Proof of Kentucky residency (utility bill, bank statement, etc.)
3. Social Security Card or letter from the Social Security Administration
4. Proof of identity (birth certificate, passport, valid state ID, etc.)
5. Two documents proving your name and address (utility bill, bank statement, etc.)
6. A valid medical/visual exam form signed by a medical professional or vision specialist dated within the last year
7. Any documents related to previously earned driver’s licenses from other states (if applicable)
8. A completed application for a Kentucky driver’s license and applicable fees

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


Yes, there are restrictions on the type of vehicles international students can drive with a driver’s license in Kentucky. For example, international students who have an F-1 visa are only allowed to drive vehicles that are registered in the United States and have a valid U.S. license plate. Furthermore, international students are not allowed to drive commercial vehicles such as tractor-trailers or buses, nor may they drive motorcycles or mopeds.

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


In Kentucky, 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 Kentucky?


No, a written test is not an obligatory requirement for international students who want to obtain a driver’s license in Kentucky. However, international students must still meet the other requirements set by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, such as providing proof of identity, residency, and insurance.

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


According to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, the process for an international student to obtain a driver’s license in Kentucky typically takes around 30 to 60 days. The applicant must first obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) from their home country, then pass a written test and vision screening at a local Circuit Court Clerk’s office, and finally pass the road test at a local Driver Licensing Regional Office.

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


Yes, Kentucky allows international students a 30-day grace period to renew their driver’s license.

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


No, there are no special benefits or discounts for international student drivers with a license in Kentucky.

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


No. International students must follow the same steps as anyone else when applying for a driver’s license in Kentucky. This includes taking the required written and road tests.

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


Yes, international students must present their passport and I-94 card, as well as a valid driving license from their home country in order to obtain a Kentucky driver’s license. Additionally, they must pass a written knowledge test, vision screening, and road skills test.

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


Yes, foreign students must have an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their valid driver’s license from their home country in order to legally drive in Kentucky. The IDP must be obtained prior to arriving in the United States from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Additionally, international students who are under the age of 18 must adhere to Kentucky’s Graduated Driver License (GDL) restrictions when driving. These restrictions limit the number of passengers and nighttime driving hours for teen drivers.

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


In order to obtain a driver’s license in Kentucky, international students must provide the following documents:

1. Valid passport and I-20 form
2. Completed application for a Kentucky non-commercial driver’s license
3. A valid Form I-94 with an unexpired endorsement of continued stay
4. Proof of Kentucky residency (utility bill or rental agreement)
5. Proof of Social Security number (SSN) or proof of ineligibility for an SSN
6. Documentation showing legal name change, if applicable
7. Payment for the Kentucky driver’s license fee

Once the required documents have been provided, international students must pass a vision, written and driving test in order to obtain their Kentucky driver’s license.

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


No, international students are not eligible to transfer their foreign driver’s license to Kentucky. According to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, you must apply for a Kentucky driver’s license if you are a non-resident and have been in the state for more than 30 days.

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


Yes, international student drivers in Kentucky can take a specialized driver’s education course that provides an International Driver’s Permit, which allows them to legally drive in the state. This course is offered through the Kentucky Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and it includes instruction in traffic laws and safety regulations. Additionally, the Kentucky DMV offers an online driver’s education course specifically designed for international students.

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


No. Kentucky does not allow foreign driver’s licenses to be exchanged for a Kentucky driver’s license, regardless of the visa status of the applicant. In order to obtain a Kentucky driver’s license, international students must first pass the written and road tests administered by the state.

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


Yes, international students must fulfill extra requirements when applying for a driver’s license in Kentucky. International students must provide valid immigration documents to demonstrate their eligibility to stay in the United States. They must also present a valid passport, visa, and proof of enrollment at an educational institution. In addition, international students must pass the written and practical tests required for all license applicants in Kentucky.