Driver’s License & State ID


As an international student/scholar, you are eligible to obtain a North Carolina driving license or a state ID Card. It is encouraged that you obtain either one or the other for identification purposes in the United States.

A driving license will allow you to operate a car and serve as a means of identification.

A State ID card will serve as a means of identification however it will not allow you to operate a car.

Please note, for new students and scholars only, the DMV will not process your application for a driver’s license or state ID card unless you have completed the online and in-person immigration check-in with the Center for Immigration Services & Support.

IMPORTANT: Please allow 7-10 days for the SAVE system to update your registration in SEVIS before going to the DMV.