International Student Services: Driver's Licenses

Please follow the steps below to obtain a driver’s license in Louisiana:  

• Step 1: Obtain a social security number.  

• If you have a job in the US, you are eligible for a social security number. Contact our Human Resources department at humanresources@mcneese.edu for information on how to apply.  

• If you do not have a job in the US, you will need to take the following steps: 

• Email internationaloffice@mcneese.edu to receive a document stating that you are not eligible for a social security number.  

• Take this letter, your passport, and your I-20 to the Social Security Administration office. They will provide you with a letter that you can use in lieu of a social security card to obtain a license.  

• Step 2: Apply for a temporary instructional permit.  

• Bring your social security card or alternate letter, your passport, and your I-20 to the Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV). 

• Apply for a temporary instructional permit at the office. This permit will allow you to enroll in the required driving licensure course.  

• Step 3: Take a Louisiana driving course.  

• In Louisiana, all candidates for a driver’s license must complete a short course at a local certified driving school. The course provides helpful details of road rules in the state and helps you prepare for the written portion of the licensure exam. Click here for a list of certified driving schools in the state. 

• Step 4: Apply for your driver’s license.  

• After you have completed your Louisiana driving course, return to the Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV). Be sure to bring your social security card or alternate letter, your temporary instructional permit, any documentation from your driving course, your passport, and your I-20.  

• While at the office you will take a written test and a driving test in which an evaluator rides in the car with you while you drive.  

• After you pass the exams, you will take a photo for your license, have your license printed, and pay any applicable fees.  

Because your I-20 is associated with a university in Louisiana, you cannot travel to another US state to obtain your initial driver’s license; you must obtain your licensure in Louisiana.  

However, if you previously lived in another US state and have an unexpired driver’s license from that state, you may visit the Louisiana OMV to have your license transferred. Fees may apply.  

Your Louisiana Driver's License can be renewed at the local OMV. You'll need to bring your I-20, passport, social security card or alternate letter, and your current driver's license.  

Please note that the OMV cannot extend your driver's license unless you have at least six months remaining on your I-20 (check your program end date); be sure to plan ahead.