How to Get a Driver's License in the USA: A Complete Guide
Moving to the USA is not only a new stage in life, but also a lot of everyday issues that need to be resolved immediately. One of them is getting a driver's license. It is difficult to move around in most states without a car, public transport is not developed everywhere, and taxis and car sharing can significantly affect the budget.
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However, the process of getting a license in the US can seem complicated: different states have their own rules, the exams are not as easy as they seem, and additional requirements are often added for immigrants. Mistakes in preparation can lead to retakes, wasted time and money.
In this guide, we will analyze the entire process of obtaining a driver's license: from collecting documents to successfully passing the exam. We will analyze what mistakes beginners make, how to avoid them, and what resources will help you prepare without stress.
Why get a driver's license in the USA?
Many visitors wonder: if I have a license from another country, why do I need an American license? However, there are several reasons why it is better to get a local license:
- Legality and convenience – In many states, you can drive with a foreign license only for a limited period (30 to 90 days). After that, you will need an American driver's license.
- Identification document – a driver's license in the USA is used instead of a passport to confirm identity, when buying alcohol, renting an apartment and in other situations.
- Car insurance – Insurance for US license holders is usually cheaper than for drivers with foreign licenses.
- Employment – Many job postings require a US driver's license, even if the job does not involve driving.
Thus, getting a license in the USA is not just an opportunity to drive a car, but an important step towards adapting to a new country.
Who can get a driver's license in the USA?
In the United States, driver's licenses are issued at the state level, not by the federal government. This means that different regions may have different requirements. However, there are a few universal rules:
- Driver's licenses are available to U.S. citizens, permanent residents (green cards), international students, and temporary workers with appropriate visas.
- In some states, you can get a license without legal status documents (for example, in California and New York).
- If you already have a driver's license from your home country, in some cases you can exchange it or go through a simplified procedure to obtain an American license.
- Most states require that an applicant for a driver's license be at least 16 years of age.
Before beginning the process, it is important to check your specific state's DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) requirements.
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How to Get a Driver's License in the USA: A Step-by-Step Process
Collection of documents
Before applying to the DMV, please have the following documents ready:
- International passport or other identification document.
- Proof of residential address (e.g. utility bill, rental agreement).
- Social Security Number (SSN) or a certificate stating that you are not eligible for one.
- Visa or documents proving legal presence in the United States (if applicable).
Passing a medical examination
You will need to pass a vision test before taking the exams. Some states may ask health questions, such as questions about diagnoses or problems that affect your ability to drive.
Passing the theoretical exam (Knowledge Test)
This is the first mandatory stage. The theoretical test includes:
- Road signs and their meanings.
- Basic traffic rules.
- Driver behavior in emergency situations.
- Consequences of violations (fines, license suspension, DUI - driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs).
Many DMVs offer the option to take the test in Russian. However, the wording of the questions can be complex, and often the translations leave much to be desired. Therefore, it is important to pass the test before the exam. DMV Test на русском языке to understand the situation and simplify the training.
Examples of difficult questions on the theory exam
1. What should you do if several cars are approaching an intersection at the same time from different directions?
- A) Politely flash your headlights to let them pass you
- B) Let cars on the right pass in front of you
- C) Always move first
- D) Give way only to pedestrians
2. What does a solid yellow line in the middle of the road mean?
- A) Overtaking is permitted on both sides
- B) Traffic is prohibited on this lane.
- C) Overtaking is prohibited in both directions.
- D) Overtaking is permitted if there is no oncoming traffic
3. At what blood alcohol level (BAC) is it illegal to drive a vehicle in most states?
- a) 0.02%
- B) 0.05%
- c) 0.08%
- D) 0.10%
4. How to parallel park correctly?
- A) Start with straight wheels and move backwards at an angle
- B) Turn around in front of the parking space and enter forward
- C) Use only mirrors without turning your head
- D) Drive close to the curb and turn the steering wheel sharply
5. What sign is used to indicate a construction zone?
- A) Blue with white symbols
- B) Green with white symbols
- C) Orange with black symbols
- D) Yellow with black symbols
Фото: Depositphotos
Obtaining a temporary permit (Learner's Permit)
After passing the theory you will be given Learner's Permit — a temporary permit that allows you to practice driving under the supervision of an experienced driver. Not everyone needs one, but in some states you can’t sign up for a practical test without one.
Practical Driving Test
On test day, the DMV instructor will check:
- The ability to start moving and stop.
- The ability to safely change lanes and make turns.
- Confidence when parking (including parallel).
- Observance of signs, traffic lights and speed limits.
- Reaction in non-standard traffic situations.
5 Most Common Reasons Why You Fail a Practice Test
- Incorrect parking – errors when parallel parking or reversing.
- Disregard for signs and traffic lights – for example, failure to obey a STOP sign or driving incorrectly at a traffic light.
- Uncertain driving – Moving too slowly, constantly stopping or being hesitant can be perceived as a lack of experience.
- Ignoring "blind spots" – examiners check how the driver monitors the surroundings and uses mirrors.
- Exceeding the speed limit or improper maneuvering – failure to observe speed limits or sudden lane changes.
Tip: Before your test, be sure to practice on a typical route used by DMV instructors.
How to prepare for the exam?
- Learn road signs and traffic rules of the USA – many signs may differ from those usual in the CIS.
- Use practice tests – they will help you get used to the wording of the questions.
- Practice on exam routes – you can often find the routes that examiners take to conduct the test.
- Take lessons from an instructor – If you have little experience, this will help you master key skills.
Obtaining a driver's license
If you pass the test, the DMV will issue your license immediately on an A4-sized piece of paper and then mail it to you as a plastic card within a few weeks.
How much does it cost to get a driver's license in the USA?
Costs vary from state to state. Average costs:
- Application fee: $30 to $100.
- Theoretical exam – $10-$50.
- Practical exam – $20-$80.
- Driving courses (if required) – from $200.
The total cost can range from $100 to $300, not including the cost of driving school.
Is it possible to get a license without knowing English?
Yes! In many states you can take the theory exam in Russian. However, the practical exam is always in English, but examiners use simple commands:
- "Turn left" – turn left.
- "Turn right" – turn right.
- "Stop" - stop.
- "Change lane" - change lanes.
📌 Tip: Learn key phrases and rules in advance to avoid stress during the exam.
What fines await drivers in the USA?
Ignorance of the law does not exempt you from liability, and it is important to understand what you can be fined for:
Fines may vary depending on the specific city and the circumstances of the violation. Some states also impose demerit points, which can lead to a temporary license suspension.
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Frequently asked questions and answers
What to do if you don’t pass the exam the first time?
You can retake the test. The number of attempts is limited, but the DMV usually allows multiple retakes for an additional fee. It is better to identify weak points in advance and practice additionally.
Is it possible to take the exam in another language?
The theory test can be taken in Russian in some states, but the practical exam is in English. However, most of the examiner's commands are very simple.
Is it possible to drive trucks with a regular license?
A regular driver's license (Class D in most states) allows you to drive vehicles with a maximum weight of 26 pounds (000 kg). However, if you are transporting goods or driving vehicles heavier than this limit, you will need a CDL (Commercial Driver's License). To do this, you need to pass separate tests, which can be found on Road2Ready.com/testy-cdl/, and successfully pass the practical exam.
How quickly can I get a license?
If you have driving experience, the whole process can take 2-4 weeks. If you are just learning, the time frame can stretch out for several months.
Are Russian or Ukrainian licenses valid in the USA?
Some states allow you to temporarily use an International Driving Permit (IDP) in combination with your national license. But after a few months, you will need a U.S. license.
Conclusion
Getting a driver's license in the United States is a process that requires preparation. However, if you study all the steps in advance, practice on real tests, and approach the exam with confidence, passing it will be much easier.
Good luck on the road and pass your exam successfully!
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