Is important to note that, like with many other things in the US, different states have different rules for driving and transportation. Therefore, you will need to visit the website or get in touch with the relevant state agency responsible for transportation in the state where you will settle. See this article for more information specific to Division of Motor Vehicles.

If you are moving directly from another country to the US for work, and you do not know how to drive, we recommend obtaining your Driver's License BEFORE moving to the US. This will be much easier and faster than learning how to drive in the US, and you can just transfer your country’s license to a US license when you arrive.

You can typically continue using a foreign license for a limited time. With your residency in the US, depending on the state you are living in, you only have 30 to 90 days to get your US driver's license. In most cases, this means that you will have to apply for a new driver’s license as if you were getting it for the first time. However, some countries have reciprocity agreements with the US that allows their citizens to simply exchange their original license for the American one.

The details of the procedures, like the documents you need to present and fees you need to pay, will differ from state to state but the general steps are usually the same.

Before you go to the local branch of the Department of Motor Vehicles, make sure you have all the right documents with you:

You will then need to fill out an application form with your personal details.

The legal age for driving varies throughout the country, so make sure that you are eligible to apply for a license. However, if you are 21 or older, this will not be a problem.

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The fees for a driver’s license, once again, depend on the state you are residing in. Some states charge a one-time fee that can be anything from $30-90, while others might charge you a small sum ($5) every year. In some states you are charged for the application, and in others, for issuing the document.

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In order to obtain your license, you will need to pass both a written and a driving test.

Written tests include 20-50 questions about the traffic rules and regulations of the state. The tests might be timed or not and you might have an option to take the test in your native language as well. You can study your state’s DMV handbook and practice taking the test online.

Once you pass the written test, you will have to schedule your driving test. If you currently have your international license, you may be able to take the driving test on the same visit to the DMV. If you do not have an international license, you may receive a Learner's Permit and need to wait several months before taking the driving test.
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In the driving test, expect to be asked to show your driving, parking, and reversing skills and the knowledge of all signals and controls. The exam can take from 30 to 40 minutes (in your car).

If you fail the driving test the first time, some states will require you to wait a few days or weeks before you can try again. There might be additional fees for extra tests that you take. Also, in some places, three failed attempts mean that you must restart the application process all over again.

You need to get your vision tested before you are certified to drive. You usually do it at your local DMV office or get a medical professional to issue you a vision test report.

If you need glasses or contacts to drive, a special restriction might be placed on your license. Drivers with very low vision might also get additional restrictions that will only allow driving during the daytime or if they are wearing special lenses.

This step might also come in earlier before you take your driving test.

Once all the documents are submitted and the exams are passed, you might immediately receive your driver's license. If not, you will be issued a temporary (paper) license that will be valid for 30-90 days, depending on the state. In this case, you will receive your permanent license mailed to your current address.
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A driver’s license in the US serves as a form of an ID that you use for legal age, in the bank, for your bills, and in most places that require ID. (You can use this instead of an EAD/Green Card if you would prefer to keep your immigration documents safe at home.)

In most states, driver’s licenses are valid for eight years, but it varies. Some states require renewal after four years, while others let you keep your license until you turn 65. You can check the license renewal information of your location online.

Some US states have reciprocity agreements with other countries. This means that if your driving permit has been issued in one of these countries, you will be able to simply exchange it for a US driving license of that state (and typically vice versa) without having to take any tests. Those countries include:

Again, note that the eligibility for the exchange depends on the state you are in, as reciprocity agreements are state-specific. Also, keep in mind that you might still be required to pay the appropriate fees and get your vision checked to receive your US license equivalent.

If your country is not on this list, it might still be worthwhile to inquire about any new reciprocity agreements.