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Drivers License & Social Security

Drivers License & Social Security

Texas Driver's License Information for International Students

Important Note on Selective Service Registration

When filling out the driver's license application, you may be told that you must register for the Selective Service. It is crucial to understand that you are NOT required to and should NOT sign up for it. If you have any questions or encounter any issues, please contact International Affairs.

Texas Driver's License for International Students

International students who will be in the U.S. for longer than 30 days and plan to drive a car should obtain a Texas Driver's License at the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).

Requirements for a Driver's License:

  • Access to a car
  • Knowledge of Texas driving regulations
  • Testable driving skills

Vehicle for Driving Test: You must provide your own vehicle when taking the driving test, along with Proof of Insurance or a statement affirming you do not own a vehicle.

Nearest Driver's License Office: Find the location of the nearest Driver's License Office by visiting: DPS Contact Us

Texas ID Card for Non-Drivers

If you do not plan to drive in the U.S. but desire a U.S. form of identification, you may apply for a Texas ID Card at the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).

How to Apply for a Texas ID Card: Instructions are available on the TxDPS website: How to Apply for a Texas Identification Card

How to Apply for a Texas Driver's License

For detailed instructions, refer to the TxDPS website: How to Apply for a Texas Driver's License

Required Documents for Application: When visiting a TxDPS location, certain documents are required to apply for a driver's license or identification card. Essential documents include:

  • Lawful presence/identification
  • Social Security (if applicable)
  • Two proofs of residency (address)

Document Specifics:

Note for Individuals Not Eligible for an SSN: Individuals not eligible to receive an SSN must complete a Social Security Number Affidavit (Form DL-13), which is provided at the Driver License Office when applying for your Texas Driver's License.

Driver's License Reciprocity

If you have a valid driver's license from another U.S. state or U.S. territory, you do not have to take the knowledge exam if you surrender your out-of-country driver's license.

Texas also has license issuance reciprocity with Canada, France, Germany, South Korea, and Taiwan only. If you have a valid, unexpired license from any of these countries, you do not have to take the knowledge exam if you surrender your out-of-country driver's license.

Applying for a Driver's Permit

  • Applicants aged 18-24 years old: Must complete a 6-hour Adult Driver Education course online at a driving school.
  • Applicants over the age of 24: Can either take the 6-hour Adult Driver Education course or take the computer test at the DPS office.
  • Applicants younger than 18 years old: A "B" restriction will be added to your license, meaning it is a license to practice. When practicing, a person 21 years or older must be in the car at all times when driving.

Impact Texas Driver Certificate: At the time of the road test, ALL applicants must present the completed Impact Texas Driver Certificate before the road test.

Appointments for DPS Services

Everyone who visits the driver's license office must have an appointment.

  • Applicants can set up an appointment online via the website or by visiting the DPS office.
  • Walk-in appointments are available if there is availability. Please note that a walk-in appointment set for you does not guarantee the appointment will be for the same day. You may have to return later in the day or another day.

When setting up your appointment online:

  • Ensure the correct office is selected; some locations have a Commercial Driver's License Office on the premises.
  • Select the accurate reason for your visit (e.g., "first time applying for a driver's license or identification card").

Schedule your appointment here: Driver License Services Appointments

SAVE Case Check

Agencies may need to verify your immigration status to process your application using the SAVE Program. CaseCheck, a free and fast service, allows you to track the progress of your SAVE verification case online.

If you are experiencing trouble with verifying your immigration status with the Department of Public Safety, check the SAVE System to see the status of your immigration verification with DHS.

Additional Information & Resources

Disclaimer: This information was last updated in March 2025. We recommend that all students visit the official Department of Public Safety website to ensure they have the most up-to-date information.

How to Get a Social Security Number (SSN)

A Social Security Number (SSN) is a nine-digit number issued to U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens that is required for any type of employment (on-campus, Curricular Practical Training (CPT), or Optional Practical Training (OPT)) within the USA.

Important Considerations Before Applying

  • Waiting Period: Wait at least 10-15 days after your check-in with the Office of International Affairs (OIA) for your name to be active in the SEVIS system before applying for your SSN.
  • F-1 Students & Off-Campus Employment: F-1 students MUST talk to the Office of International Affairs (OIA) for off-campus CPT and OPT employment authorization processes BEFORE starting a position. The process of applying for CPT and OPT takes time, so contact OIA as early as possible to determine your eligibility.

Steps to Apply for a Social Security Card

Applying for a Social Security card is free and simple. Follow these steps:

  1. Visit the Social Security Website: Go to the Social Security Administration website.
  2. Locate Forms: Click on the "Forms" tab (usually found at the bottom of the page) to be directed to various applications.
  3. Find the Application: Click on "Application for a Social Security Card (SS-5)."
  4. Complete the Application: The application is often hyperlinked within a PDF. You can choose to fill it out online or print it off. Be sure to fill it out in BLUE or BLACK ink.
  5. Apply In Person: Since you are applying for the first time, you will need to apply in person. This is typically on a first-come, first-served basis. You will need to get a ticket and then wait for your name to be called.
  6. Find Your Nearest Office: To locate your nearest Social Security office, use the SSA office locator. Enter your zip code and click "Locate." The closest office, along with its address and contact information, will be displayed.

Scheduling Appointments

You can schedule, reschedule, or cancel an appointment by:

  • Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778) Monday through Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. local time.
  • Contact your local Social Security office directly.

Required Documents for SSN Application

When applying for a Social Security Card, you will need to provide at least two documents to prove your:

  • Age
  • Identity
  • Work-authorized immigration status

You must take ALL of the following original documents with you when applying:

  • Unexpired Passport/Visa
  • DS-2019 (J-1 students & scholars only)
  • I-20 (F-1 students only)
  • I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
  • Offer a letter of employment
  • Completed Application for Social Security Card (Form SS-5)

Receiving Your SSN Card

The Social Security Office may take 2-4 weeks to mail your SSN card to you.

Important Note for Mailing Address: If your name is not on the lease for your house or apartment, in addition to your name and address, you should include "c/o" (care of) followed by the name of the person who is on the lease (e.g., relative's name or landlord).

Working While You Wait: While you wait for your SSN card, your employer can use a letter from the SSN office stating you applied for a number. Your immigration documents can also prove your authorization to work in the United States. For more information, refer to this SSA publication on employer responsibilities.

Questions or Concerns

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Social Security application process, we encourage you to contact the Social Security hotline at 1-800-772-1213. This hotline is available Monday – Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Social Security Office (Closest to Campus)

  • Address: 3438 E SOUTHCROSS BLVD, SAN ANTONIO, TX 78223
  • Phone: 1-800-772-1213
  • TTY: 1-800-325-0778
  • Fax: 1-833-950-3023

Hours:

  • Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Saturday - Sunday: Closed

For information on office closings and emergencies, please contact the office directly or check the official SSA website.

Disclaimer: This information was last updated in March 2025.