Moving to the U.S. comes with a long to-do list. One task that’s easy to overlook is getting an International Driver’s License before you leave your home country.
What Is an International Driving Permit?
An International Driving Permit (IDP), often called an International Driver’s License is a translation of your valid driver’s license. It is recognized in more than 180 countries and includes your driver information in multiple languages.
You must apply for an IDP in your home country before relocating. The United States does not issue IDPs to foreign residents.
Where Do You Get One?
The process varies by country. In many places, you can apply through the government agency that issues driver’s licenses, a post office, or an authorized automobile association.
Check your country’s official website for requirements, fees, and processing times before you travel.
Why Get an IDP?
An IDP can help you start driving sooner after you arrive in the U.S. It may also make the process of obtaining a U.S. driver’s license easier, depending on the state where you’ll live.
Each state has its own licensing requirements, so be sure to check with your state’s motor vehicle agency after you arrive.
Many states allow new residents to drive with an IDP for a limited time. Eventually, you’ll need to obtain a U.S. driver’s license.
Depending on the state, you may need to:
- Pass a written knowledge test
- Complete a vision screening
- Take a road test
- Provide proof of identity and residency
- Pay the required licensing fee
Some states have agreements with certain countries that may simplify the process.
Extra Support for IAS Customers
When you purchase, finance, lease, or arrange a long-term rental through IAS, you’ll also receive access to an online defensive driving course designed for your new state.
These courses can help you learn local driving laws, build confidence behind the wheel, and may even qualify you for an auto insurance discount, depending on your state and insurance provider.
Free Online Driving Course
IAS offers additional support for the safety of relocating healthcare professionals. Many expatriates, while experienced drivers are likely unfamiliar with local driving rules and laws in their new state and new drivers may lack the essential defensive driving skills designed to help prevent hazards before they occur. For every customer that orders a vehicle through our program, they are given access to one of the premier online driving schools in the United States where they can take a convenient course, at their own pace, designed specifically for their new state of residence.
The benefits of online driving courses for healthcare professionals relocating to the U.S.
Not only do these convenient safety courses reduce risk, but some states also require the completion of a defensive driving course to secure a state license. These courses may offer savings to those individuals who participate. Many insurance companies offer discounts up to 10% on auto insurance premiums with a certificate of completion.
About International AutoSource
As an industry leader providing vehicle solutions to the healthcare community for over 20 years, we know how important it is for healthcare professionals to have their own transportation and we have tailored our programs to meet their unique needs. The IAS Healthcare Advantage Program provides vehicle financing with no U.S. credit history backed by exclusive protections, privileged pricing and dedicated full-service support that are not available anywhere else. IAS is about making an international healthcare professionals journey to the U.S. one step easier by getting them ready to drive when they arrive so they can focus on their job assignment. Check out these helpful resources for international healthcare professionals.
