Hi Everyone,

My man will be here in ONE WEEK to visit for a month... we filed our I-129F at the end of April. He's entering the US on the VWP and has a valid driver's license in Germany (we don't think it'a an international license). Will he be able to drive when he gets here?

Thanks! Jen

He should get an internatioal driver license, it's available from a Automobile Club... I'd love to see the cop's face when he asks for a DL and it's in German...

My husband has been driving in the U.S. with his foreign driver license for over a year! He's gotten pulled over with it, no problem (one cop at a DUI checkpoint asked if he lived here, he said yes, and the cop said "If you're planning to stay here, you should get an American license." That was all). He even has car insurance with it. Personally, I think the international license is a waste of money - but if you'd feel more comfortable with it, go for it.

I think it may depend on the state and maybe even the cop. Some say the International one is good in case you get in to trouble or are in an accident. My Andrew is an ex-cop and he says not to worry about it but then mine is in English. I had one though when I visited and plan to get another before I return. Maybe ring your local police.

Stella.

Do you know if it's 'walk-in/walk-out' process?

He's working out of town all week, back early afternoon on Friday, and then leaving for the US on Monday...

Crap... wish I thought of this sooner....

yes the laws will depend on the state that you're in

It is here in the US... All an international DL is is a translation of his home countries license...

Useful site on license requirements

I was told by the DMV that I was allowed to drive here on my UK license for 6 months without having to take a US test. I would imagine it is the same for Germany as it is an EEC country.

The International Driver's License is just a document that confirms your foreign license is valid - I, personally, would't bother with one.

If he is going to be hiring a car, though, he may want to check with the hire-car company if they have any specific license requirements ile International permit.

This link has a section specifically referring to Germany - and it's in German. Thought it may help.

Good Luck and enjoy his visit.

I have been driving on my UK license, I was told that once i became a resident i "should" get a Michigan state License, so i guess i should perhaps do that now

Thank you, thank you, everyone!

As much as I think I have all of the details in my head, something like this happens to make me question my sanity...

Jen

It's a walk in, pay AUS$50, walk out process here in Australia. Requires a passport photo. I wouldn't worry too much, seems most don't. I am just one of those worrier's.

Stella.

Oh I just read the previous link. Thanks for that. I am not going to get the international drivers license now. You just saved me $50. Yipppeeee. So seems like not a such a big deal. Just handy for the cops cause it's in English.

Good luck to you and your man.
Stella.