Driver's License & State ID
Driver's licenses in the United States are issued by each state of residence, but once obtained, a driver can drive legally throughout the U.S. with any state license. Most students, especially those who live off-campus opt to get a Louisiana driver's license during their time in the United States.
State identification cards (ID cards without driver privileges) are recommended for students who are degree seeking, but who don't intend to drive. The state ID card provides additional identification during a student's time in the U.S.
It is important to review U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement guidelines for applying for a driver's license or state identification card prior to going to a Louisiana Department of Motor Vehicles office. The Department of Motor Vehicles website includes information about obtaining a driver's license for non-immigrants who are licensed drivers in their home countries. Students may visit any of the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles locations. The closest locations are in Lafayette, Vermilion, St. Martin, St. Landry, and Iberia parishes.
Required Documents:
Required Documents:
- Valid Passport
- I-94 (can be printed via DHS' I-94 website)
- Valid SEVIS I-20 or DS-2019 (Your I-20 or DS-2019 must show that there are AT LEAST 30 days left in your program of study.)
- Full-time letter obtained from the Office of International Affairs
- Your last paid tuition/fee receipt
- Schedule of classes/transcript (recommended)
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Students who are obtaining a driver's license for the first time will be required to enroll in a driver education program. There are multiple driver education programs in the Lafayette area. More information is available on the Office of Motor Vehicles website.