F-1 students are permitted to drive with a valid out-of-country driver's license for 30 days after arriving to the US. After this period, F-1 students must go to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) to obtain a Florida Driver's License.
BEFORE going to the FLHSMV: 1. Complete the Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education exam.
- Only F-1 students who DO NOT have an out of country driver's license are required to complete this exam. The FLHSMV website provides a list of approved organizations that offer the exam. The results are automatically sent to the FLHSMV, but please print a confirmation/certificate to bring with you.2. Study for the written knowledge test.- Download a copy of the Florida Driver Handbook. 3. Schedule online appointments for the written knowledge and Class E driving exams.
BRING to the FLHSMV:
- Form I-20 (endorsed within the past 12 months)
- Passport and visa
- Electronic I-94 record
- Valid out of country Driver's License (if applicable)
- Proof of residential address (2 forms)
- Social Security Card OR Social Security Denial Letter (obtained from the Social Security Office)
- If living on-campus, please contact the Residence Life Office to obtain a residency letter.
- Other forms of proof include: utility bill, paycheck stub, credit card statement or bank statement.
- Check made payable to Florida Department of Highway Safety and Vehicles. Cash is also accepted. Debit/credit cards are NOT accepted.
- Print-outs of your appointment confirmations.
Upon arrival at the FLHSMV, applicants will complete the written knowledge test and a driving test for a Class E License. Applicants must bring their own car or a friend's car with proof of insurance and registration.