Driver's License for International Visitors (F-1 and J-1)
International students and scholars 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).
Access to a car, knowledge of Texas driving regulations, as well as testable driving skills are basic requirements for a driver’s license. You must provide your own vehicle when taking the driving test.
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Application Process
Click to learn more: Driver’s License Application Process
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Documents to bring to DPS
Required Documents (Original Copies):
- Review the Texas Department of Public Safety website to find out what documents you need to bring such as your
- Valid Passport
- Visa
- Form I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1)
- Most Recent I-94 printed
- Social Security Card, if you have one
- Recommended - proof of residence (utility bill, apartment lease).
- Click to learn more about Identification Requirements: Texas Department of Public Safety - Identification Requirements
For F-1 Students Only: A Proof of Enrollment Letter from International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)
- Use the Request Form to request a Proof of Enrollment Letter be written (processing time: 5 -10 business days).
- Review the Texas Department of Public Safety website to find out what documents you need to bring such as your
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Getting to the DPS in San Marcos
Directions to the DPS using the CARTS city bus:
- Take the CARTS city bus from the CARTS station, in front of the UPS Store (415 N Guadalupe St) near UAC, to the San Marcos Station. The CARTS bus normally arrives at 00:50 of the hour, from 7:30am – 5:30pm. (normally Route 5)
- When you arrive at the San Marcos Station, get on the connecting CARTS bus that goes by the DPS (normally Route 3 but ask the bus driver to be sure). The CARTS bus normally arrives near the DPS office every half hour.
- If you will also need a ride back to campus, make sure to ask the bus driver when the bus will be back to the DPS and ask where they can pick you up.
Address: Department of Public Safety (DPS) 1400 N I-35, San Marcos, TX 78666
DPS Phone: (512)-353-2770
CARTS Phone: (512)-805-7433