Basically, yes, you can drive in the USA with your international driver's license (IDP - International Driver's Permit), but the details and regulations vary by state.
Conditions for driving with an international driver's license:
Short-term stay: If you are staying in the USA for less than a year (e.g., an exchange semester), you can generally drive with your international driver's license in combination with your European driver's license without any problems in most states.
International driver's license and national driver's license: The international driver's license is only valid in combination with your valid European driver's license. You must always have both documents with you.
Not a permanent solution: In some states, the international driver's license is only a temporary solution, and you must apply for a local driver's license as soon as you establish a permanent residence.
Note:
In states like California, Florida, or Texas, as an international student you are only allowed to drive with your international driver's license for a limited time (often between 3 to 6 months) before you need to obtain an American driver's license. Therefore, always check the specific regulations of the state where your university is located.
The international driver's license (IDP) is a translated and standardized driver's license that is recognized in many countries, including the USA. It is a supplement to your existing national driver's license and is valid in combination with it.
Applying for the international driver's license:
You must have a valid national driver's license.
You can apply for the international driver's license in your home country, for example, through ADAC or other automobile clubs.
It is generally valid for 1 to 3 years and costs around $15-20.
Bring your European driver's license, a passport photo, and your passport when applying.
Note:
Apply for the international driver's license before your departure to the USA, as you cannot obtain it on-site in the USA.
An American driver's license is required if:
You stay in the USA for more than a year and/or
You establish a residence in a state that requires a US driver's license.
You want to buy or insure a car: In many cases, insurance companies and car dealers require an American driver's license to register you as a driver or offer you insurance.
Steps to apply for an American driver's license:
To obtain an American driver's license, you must go through the process of the respective state. This normally includes:
Document verification:
Valid passport and visa (F-1)
I-20 form
SSN (if available) or a written confirmation that you do not have an SSN
Proof of your US residence (e.g., rental agreement, utility bill)
Valid European driver's license
Written exam: The written test is based on the traffic rules of the respective state. You can download the driver's manual online and prepare for it. Questions will cover traffic rules, road signs, and driving behavior.
Driving test: The practical test includes a driving evaluation with an examiner, where you must demonstrate safe driving and knowledge of traffic rules.
Vision test: Before the driving test, you must pass a vision test to ensure you do not have any visual impairments that could affect your driving.
Note:
The fees for obtaining a driver's license vary by state (approx. $30-$60). The entire process can take several weeks.
Advantages:
Easier insurance: With a US driver's license, you often get more affordable insurance rates.
Acceptance: The US driver's license is recognized as an identification document (e.g., at government agencies or when flying within the USA).
Longer validity: Most American driver's licenses are valid for 3 to 5 years, which is convenient for a longer stay.
Disadvantages:
Time commitment: Applying and taking the exams require time and preparation.
Costs: There are exam and application fees, which vary by state.
Limited validity in Europe: A US driver's license is not automatically valid in Europe. You would have to exchange it for a European driver's license upon your return.
Tip:
If you plan to stay in the USA for only one or two semesters, it is often sufficient to drive with your international driver's license. For a longer stay (e.g., 4 years for a bachelor's program), obtaining a US driver's license is worth considering.
If you haven't obtained a driver's license in Europe yet and want to start driving in the USA, you can directly attend a driving school in the USA. The process is much less extensive than in many European countries.
Requirements:
You must be at least 18 years old (in some states, 16 years old is sufficient).
You need the same documents as described above (passport, visa, etc.).
Procedure:
Apply for a learner's permit: You must first pass a written exam to obtain a learner's permit.
Supervised driving: With the learner's permit, you are only allowed to drive while accompanied by an adult who has a valid driver's license.
Take the driving test: After a certain number of driving lessons, you can take the practical driving test and obtain the regular driver's license.
Note:
The costs and time commitment for obtaining a driver's license in the USA are significantly lower than in Germany or Austria, making this option attractive.
Smarthlete recommends using the international driver's license if your stay is less than a year and you don't have major plans to buy a car or drive regularly. For longer stays or frequent driving, it is advisable to apply for an American driver's license.
If you have any questions or need support with obtaining a driver's license, our team is always here to assist you!