Overview

• Homeland Security advises F and M student visa holders to wait up to 10 days after arrival so I‑94 records populate and SAVE verification can complete before visiting a DMV.
• Texas issues licenses through the Department of Public Safety and requires a valid, federally verifiable immigration status to qualify.
• Texas applicants must present a current passport, proof of immigration status such as an I‑94, evidence of state residency like leases or utility bills, and a Social Security number.
• Florida’s motor‑vehicle department requires original identity evidence, a Social Security number, and two proofs of in‑state residence, and it continues to invalidate licenses for people without legal status under its 2023 policy.
• For Florida commercial permits and licenses, two residency proofs must be in the applicant’s name and an FLHSMV address certificate is not accepted, while standard licenses generally last eight years with renewals allowed up to 18 months early and address changes due within 30 days.