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How to get a driver's license in Missouri as an immigrant

Everything a new arrival in Missouri needs to know, from driving on a foreign license to the documents the DMV accepts from non-citizens. Facts are quoted from official sources.

Quick answers

Drive on a foreign license?
Not stated in official sources
Deadline after moving
As soon as you establish residency in Missouri
License exchange without tests
Not stated in official sources
License without immigration status
No
No SSN?
Provide your SSN; if no SSN has been assigned, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration.

Driving on a foreign license

Deadline after moving: As soon as you establish residency in Missouri.

If your country is not on the list

A foreign license is not transferable; apply for a new Missouri license and take the four-part exam (written, vision, road sign and driving skills tests).

The four-part exam consists of a written test, vision test, road sign test, and a driving skills test. dor.mo.gov

Documents for non-citizens

Examples of accepted immigration documents:

  • Employment Authorization Document
  • Foreign passport with a U.S. visa and I-94
  • Other valid, unexpired USCIS immigration documents

License validity: Non-citizens may get a shorter expiration date based on the expiration date of the documents submitted.

Non-U.S. citizens must present the appropriate immigration documents indicating the applicant's status. dor.mo.gov

Social Security number

Provide your SSN; if no SSN has been assigned, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration.

If a Social Security number has not been assigned, the applicant must present a letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA) dor.mo.gov

Proof of residency

One document showing your name and Missouri address for a non-REAL ID card; two documents from two different sources for REAL ID.

Applicants for a non REAL ID-compliant card must submit one issued acceptable document to verify residency. dor.mo.gov

Step by step

  1. Gather proof of identity, lawful status (immigration documents), SSN or SSA letter, and Missouri address.
  2. Go to a Missouri State Highway Patrol driver examination station.
  3. Pass the vision test, road sign test and written test (80% to pass, 20 of 25).
  4. Pass the driving skills test with the Highway Patrol.
  5. Take your passed test results and documents to a Missouri license office and pay the fee.
  6. Expect a license that may expire with your immigration documents.

Fees

Class F driver license: $16.50 (up to 3 years) or $33 (up to 6 years); Class F instruction permit: $10.

The total cost of the Class F operator's instruction permit is $10.00, it is valid for 12 months, and can be renewed. dor.mo.gov

Prepare for the knowledge test Exam languages in Missouri

Checked against official sources on October 27, 2026. Rules change: confirm with the DMV before your visit. This is not legal advice.