J2 and F2 visa holders need to allow six to eight weeks for process verification. New students must wait at least two weeks from the start of the semester before going to the DMV to allow time for immigration record validation. Eligibility and ApplyingĪll F1/F2, J1/J2 visa holders are eligible for a state ID or driver's license as long as their I-20 or DS-2019 is valid for a minimum of six months or more in the future (including grace period). Students will receive a letter in the mail about returning to the local DMV office. Usually students have to wait for the DMV to verify immigration information with the DMV in Harrisburg. If the DMV cannot verify your immigration documents, you can check with the OIE to see if your I-20 is active. Please plan ahead! If you are thinking about getting a license or state ID, do it while you have six to eight months of study left, otherwise you may not be eligible for a document. Most non-immigrants and their dependents can obtain a Pennsylvania driver's license or state identification card.Ī state identification card is a good alternative to carrying a passport and is useful for opening bank accounts, paying via personal check, or going to bars or restaurants where alcohol is served. The Pennsylvania Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) oversees issuing of driver licenses and state identification cards.
