Exchanging a Foreign Driver's LicenseBackgroundVirginia law allows DMV to enter into reciprocal arrangements with foreign countries for the purpose of issuing driver's licenses without requiring knowledge and road skills testing. These arrangements can only be entered into with the approval of the Governor, provided the foreign country’s driver licensing standards and requirements meet or exceed Virginia's. Show
EligibilityFor applicants 18 years and older, Virginia DMV has reciprocal arrangements with the following countries:
If you are exchanging a foreign driver's license from a country listed above and you are at least 18 years of age, you may not be required to complete the knowledge and road skills tests; however, DMV must first verify the validity of your driver's license and confirm that it is in good standing with the foreign country prior to issuing you a Virginia driver's license. To start the application process, you will need to complete an "Exchanging a Driver's License from A foreign Country" application (DL 7) and submit it to DMV with a legible copy of your foreign license. *If you hold a license issued by Canada, you do not need to provide an "Exchanging a Driver's License from A foreign Country" application (DL 7). The validity of your license will be verified electronically at the DMV customer service center. Make an appointment for in-person service by visiting www.dmvNOW.com/appt and present your Canadian driver's license along with all other required identity and residency documents. If you do not hold a driver's license from a country listed above, you must meet all knowledge and road skills testing requirements. If you can prove that you held a driver's license, you may not be required to hold a learner's permit. Testing Requirements
If you choose not to take advantage of this driver's license reciprocity program, you must pass the two-part knowledge exam and road skills test. However, you may not be required to show proof of successful completion of driver education or hold a learner's permit for 60 days if you provide satisfactory evidence that you hold a foreign license. If you attempt the knowledge and/or road skills tests and fail, you are no longer eligible to have your tests waived. You will be required to successfully complete the knowledge and road skills exams prior to being issued a Virginia driver’s license. Submitting Your DocumentsYour first step is to complete the "Exchanging a Driver's License from A foreign Country" application (DL 7) and submit it to DMV with a legible copy of your foreign license. The fastest and easiest way to have your document(s) processed is by submitting them online. Click the “UPLOAD ONLINE” link below to submit your documents. It's fast, easy and secure! If you are unable to upload your documents online, DMV can still accept them by one of the other methods listed below:
If you prefer to submit your DL7 application and a copy of your foreign license in person at a DMV office, see How to Schedule a Driver License Service Appointment for instructions on how to schedule an appointment online to submit these documents in person. Once you submit your application and a copy of your foreign driver's license, DMV will verify it with the issuing country. If your license is verified and is in good standing, you will receive an approval letter. Next StepsAllow 15 days for processing. DMV will notify you by mail after your driver's license has been verified and provide you with instructions about scheduling an appointment for in person service at a DMV office. Before visiting DMV, ensure that you have met all of the requirements for obtaining a Virginia driver's license or driver privilege card. If you choose not to take advantage of this driver's license reciprocity program, you must pass the two-part knowledge exam and road skills test. However, you may not be required to show proof of successful completion of driver education or hold a learner's permit for 60 days if you provide satisfactory evidence that you held a foreign license. How can a foreign driver get a US driver's license?Note that every state has different requirements for how to get a driver's license.. Verify you have all the appropriate documentation.. Apply for your license.. Take the written exam and driver's exam (if needed). Register your car.. How long can you drive with a foreign license in the US?You can drive legally in the U.S. for one year using a driver's license from your home country and an International Driver's Permit (IDP).
Can I exchange my foreign driver license in New York?To get a New York State driver license, you must pass a written test, complete a 5-hour pre-licensing course, and pass a road test. See Get a driver license. When you pass your road test, you must give your foreign driver license to the DMV road test examiner.
Can I exchange my foreign driver license in NJ?You may transfer both your license and registration in one transaction by making an appointment for a transfer from out-of-state. Make sure to bring all required documents. (Same link en Español).
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