Dominican Driver's License

[lynn2329 0]

My SO has a valid driver's license in the Dominican Republic. Is there a way to get this validated in the US so that he is able to drive right away?

[Cathi 5,610]

No, he must obtain a valid driver's permit then license in the state that you reside in. You cannot transfer a license from a foreign country.

[Ryan H 3,790]

Moved from IR-1/CR-1 Progress Reports to Moving Here and Your New Life In America forum.

**Organizer hat off**

No, he must obtain a valid driver's permit then license in the state that you reside in. You cannot transfer a license from a foreign country.

This is not always the case. Some states do allow allow people who moved to the state from another country to apply for a license as if they have moved from another state (i.e. no need to obtain a permit first). For example, people who move to Washington from Germany, South Korea, or British Columbia who possess a valid license don't need a permit first.

OP, check with the licensing authority of the state you will be living in.

[reese1 68]

Check with your DMV some states allow you to drive with a foreign license with or without having an international drivers permit as long as the I-94 is valid. However, once I-94 expires you will have to do like mimolicious stated get a permit then license and that will also have to be done after AOS. Any permit you get before AOS will only be temporary and they will not renew until AOS. Some countries you do not have to obtain permit first, not sure if DR is one of them.

Edited November 25, 2012 by reese1