Getting Driver’s License and State ID

In the United States, driver's licenses are issued by states rather than the federal government. A driver should obtain a driver’s license from the state they reside in. Each state governs the rules for obtaining a driver’s license. Information regarding the issuance of Missouri driver’s licenses to F and J Visa holders is listed below.    

 Steps to Obtain a Missouri Driver’s License 

  1. Take the written test: For a copy of the Missouri State Driver’s Manual, you can go to http://www.dor.mo.gov/mvdl/drivers/dlguide/. You can also pick up a paper copy at the Springfield Contract Office.  This manual will help you study for the written portion of the test and provide you with Missouri driving laws. 
  1. Obtain a learner permit: After passing the written driver's license test, you will be issued a learner permit. This will allow you to legally drive only when an adult licensed driver is with you. Use the permit to learn or practice how to drive.    
  1. Take the driving test: An officer will evaluate your driving. You will need to bring a car to use.  
  1. Apply for driver’s license: Once you have passed the driving test, you can then apply for your driver’s license at a license office.

Required Documentation 

You MUST take these items with you when you apply for the Missouri Driver License: 

  • Passport with US visa 
  • I-94 (Check Expiration Date) 
  • I-20 (Continued Attendance) or DS-2019  
  • Proof of Residency  
  • Most recent bank statement 
  • Housing rental contract for current residence 
  • Most recent utility bill (including phone, electric, gas, water, sewer/trash or cable) 
  • Personal property tax receipt 
  • Recent paycheck with your local address 
  • Any official letter issued within the last 30 days by another state or local governmental agency 
  • Social Security Card or a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not eligible for a social security card (SSN Refusal Form SSA-L676). 

     Social Security Administration 

     1570 W. Battlefield, Suite 100 

     Springfield MO  65807 

     (417) 866-6925 

**For F-2 or J-2 dependents, they must take the I-20 or DS-2019 with them and an Enrollment                         Letter stating their spouse is a full-time student of MSU.  

***Non-Driver’s Licenses can be obtained using the same documentation as above. You will not need to        take a test to obtain a Non-Driver’s License.  

 

Useful links from the Missouri Department of Revenue: 

Missouri Driver Guide 

Title and Registration when purchasing a vehicle 

Driver Licensing Checklist 

 

 

 

 

 

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