U.S. Driver’s License
Applying for an Illinois Driver’s License
International students are permitted to obtain an Illinois Driver’s License during their time in the USA. ISO assists International students in applying for a driver’s license by writing a Letter of Confirmation of Student Status for the applicant. This letter simply confirms that the applicant is a valid F-1 visa holder and is eligible to apply for a driver’s license. This confirmation letter is one of several required identification documents that the applicant must show to apply for an Illinois Driver’s License.
The following are general steps for applying for a driver’s license. Please follow the embedded links for more important details from the Illinois Department of State.
- Visit a Secretary of State facility
- Bring required identification documents
- Pay the appropriate fee
- Pass the appropriate exams (vision screening, written and/or driving)
A social security number is required to apply for an Illinois Driver’s License.
Applying for a Temporary Visitors Driver’s License
If you do not have a social security number, you may still apply for a Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL). The Secretary of State's office issues a TVDL for non-citizens of the United States who have been granted temporary, legal entry into this country and are temporarily residing in the State of Illinois and ineligible for a Social Security number. To check your eligibility for a TVDL and how to apply, visit the Secretary of State website and click “Temporary Driver’s License”