Canadian Getting an Ohio Driver's License

[twin810s 23]

So it's nearing my move date (moving to Ohio from Ontario) and I'm trying to sort out as much as I can in advance. This is the issue I'm trying to figure out right now: I can't get an Ohio driver's license until I get my SSN, which, it seems, I won't get till 2 to maybe 8 or so weeks (or who knows how long) after GC approval. I do currently have a valid Ontario DL. Can I drive in Ohio (as a resident) on my Ontario DL until I get my SSN and can get my Ohio DL? What about insurance? I obviously can't get Ohio insurance without Ohio plates/registration/DL, but I have valid Ontario insurance. Will it be void once I move? Will my Ontario plates be voided once I import my car? Can I just continue using my Ontario driving credentials for a few weeks until I get the appropriate Ohio docs, or am I just SOL and doomed to spend my first weeks in America sitting on the couch, getting fat and watching Netflix, waiting for my SSN?

Edited May 20, 2014 by twin810s

[Krikit 1,164]

GEICO was happy to insure me and my vehicle until I received a new license and registration. All I had to do was update their records when everything had been processed.

Yes, you can drive on your ON license in the meantime.

Edited May 21, 2014 by Krikit

[NikLR 13,227]

Your driver's license should be good in Ohio for a specific amount of time. It varies by state. I'm not sure how long it is in Ohio but you can ask at the DMV. Many states allow you to just renew as if it's an out of state license.

Also you can be added to your spouse's insurance.

And you can go int to get an SSN anytime after you POE, so if you want to do it right away then go. You don't have to wait. Once you have that you can go to the DMV as long as you have all the documents they require. Remember your endorsed visa becomes a green card valid for 1 year.

http://www.bmv.ohio.gov/driver_license.stm

[twin810s 23]

Thanks for the info. Makes me feel a bit easier.

Many states allow you to just renew as if it's an out of state license.

Ohio' BMV has no such reciprocal program. They do not recognize any out of state (let alone country) licenses. Anyone moving to Ohio needs to start from scratch as a new driver in their licensing system - written test, and often the road test and maneuverability test too (look it up - it's silly)... the whole nine yards. I have read differing accounts of having to take the road/maneuverability test. I think it's just a 50/50 thing, whether or not you have to take it.

Thanks for the tips!

[NikLR 13,227]

Thanks for the info. Makes me feel a bit easier.

Ohio' BMV has no such reciprocal program. They do not recognize any out of state (let alone country) licenses. Anyone moving to Ohio needs to start from scratch as a new driver in their licensing system - written test, and often the road test and maneuverability test too (look it up - it's silly)... the whole nine yards. I have read differing accounts of having to take the road/maneuverability test. I think it's just a 50/50 thing, whether or not you have to take it.

Thanks for the tips!

Wow, that's so silly!