The Illinois Office of the Secretary of State is responsible for the issuance of drivers licenses in the state of Illinois. International students and scholars are typically eligible for a Temporary Visitor Driver's License (TVDL) or a regular driver's license.
Please note that while international students can drive with a valid driver's license from their home country, it is not recommended. If you do drive with a driver's license from your home country, please be sure to carry a translation just in case.
Temporary Visitor Driver's License
To be eligible for a Temporary Visitor Driver's License, you must be:
- A non-citizen of the U.S.
- Granted temporary, legal entry into this country
- Temporarily residing in the State of Illinois
- Ineligible for a Social Security number
- Be authorized to be in the country for at least one year and have at least six months remaining on an authorized stay (I-20)
A Temporary Visitor Driver's License is valid for three years or for the period of time the individual is authorized to stay in this country, whichever ends sooner.
The Illinois Office of the Secretary of State has more information about facilities, requirements and costs.
Regular Driver’s License
You will need to fulfill the identification requirements of the Secretary of State (PDF) to apply for a license.
You will be required to take a vision and written test. If you do not have a driver’s license from your home country or your home country drives on the left side of the road, you will be required to take a driving test. The driving test must be taken in your own vehicle.