Question: Can I get Missouri driver’s license if I am an international student?
Answer: International students can apply for a Missouri driver’s license. In most cases, international students will have to pass both a written test and a driving test before they can apply for the license.
Steps for getting a license:
- Prepare for the Tests
Review the Missouri Driver Guide (PDF) to prepare for the tests. - Request a Driver’s License Letter from the OISS.
The license office will only accept the letter within 30 days from the date it is written. If you plan ahead, you can use the letter for both the written test and the driving test. Otherwise, you will need to request another letter. - Collect Your Documents
F-1 Students Enrolled Full-Time
- Passport
- I-20
- I-94 (print I-94 online)
- Proof of Residential Address in Missouri (for example: bank statement, housing contract, utility bill, phone bill)
- Social Security Number (SSN) or SSN Refusal Form SSA-L676*
J-1 Students Enrolled Full-Time
- Passport
- DS-2019
- I-94 (print I-94 online)
- Proof of Residential Address in Missouri (for example: bank statement, housing contract, utility bill, phone bill)
- Social Security Number (SSN) or SSN Refusal Form SSA-L676*
*If you do not have an SSN, you must apply for a Refusal Letter (Form SSA-L676) from the Social Security Administration to prove that you do not need an SSN. You should take all of the documents listed above with you when you apply for the SSA-L676.
- Take the Written Test.
Once you pass the written test, you will be issued a learner’s permit, which will allow you to legally drive only when an adult licensed driver is in the vehicle with you. You can use this permit to practice driving. - Take the Driving Test.
You must bring a car for this test. During the driving test, an officer will evaluate your driving. You will also take a vision test and a road sign test at this time. Testing is done on a walk-in basis. - Apply for the License.
After you have passed the driving test, you should apply for the Missouri License at the License Office.
You can find more information about getting a Missouri Driver’s License, or (a non-driver) Missouri State ID, as well as information about the closest Testing and License Offices on the OISS website.
Written By: Jeanne Pizarro, International Student Advisor