I want to get a driver's license, but I don't have a social
security number, what should I do?
For the purpose of obtaining a driver’s license, learner permit or state ID, you must provide a letter from the US Social Security Administration stating that you are not eligible. Follow the steps outlined below.
- Go to the Social Security Administration office located in the Federal Building in downtown Syracuse (100 South Clinton street; 4th floor). Explain that you would like to apply for a driver's license/ learner permit/state ID and state yuor visa type.
Explain that the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has asked for your SSN, which you do not have. Request a letter which explains to the DMV that SSN's are not issued for the purpose of obtaining a driver's license. The Social Security office will give you a letter which you may take to the DMV.
- Bring the letter to the DMV within 30 days of issuance along with other necessary documents (please refer to http://international.syr.edu/driving_in_us.htm#required_docs_for_drivers_license) and apply for a driver’s license/learner permit/state ID.
Additional Regulations for Students Applying for OPT or Academic Training:
- Based on the current DMV policy, the local office will issue a DL/permit/state ID with a notice indicating that your temporary visitor status will end on the same date as the expiration of your I-20/DS-2019.
- If you are planning to undertake Optical Practical Training after your graduation, you will need to present a new I-20 reflecting the OPT approval to the DMV officer.
- If you present a new I-20 with an approved OPT before the completion of your studies, DMV will issue you a driver’s license/permit/state ID indicating that your temporary visitor status will expire at the same time when you complete your OPT.
- If you come in during your OPT, DMV will need to see your EAD card before issuing any documents. The visitor status expiration date placed on your driver’s license will then reflect the end date on your EAD card.
- Students in J-1 status undertaking academic training will need to present an updated DS-2019 indicating a period of approved academic training.
Also see: