Driving in Nevada with a Foreign Driver's License

Yes, people with a valid and current driver's license issued from a foreign country may drive in Nevada. You do not need to apply for a Nevada driver's license unless your foreign license expires or you become eligible for a Nevada license.

To drive in Nevada with a foreign license, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Validity of License: The foreign driver's license must be valid and current. Once the foreign license expires, you must either renew your foreign license or, if eligible, apply for a Nevada driver's license.
  • International Driver License (IDL): An IDL is not required for foreign visitors, but if you have one, it must be accompanied by a valid government-issued driver's license. An IDL is simply a translation of your license and is not valid on its own.
  • Translation of Foreign License: If your foreign driver's license is not in English, it is strongly advised to carry a certified translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP) to avoid potential language barriers with law enforcement.

Eligibility for a Nevada Driver's License

  • Immigrants: Certain immigrants, such as green card holders, may be eligible for a Nevada driver's license.
  • Tourists and Exchange Students: Tourists and exchange students are not eligible for a Nevada driver's license.
  • Non-Citizens: Non-citizens can contact the Nevada DMV and provide their status code to check if they are eligible for a Nevada driver's license.

Requirements for Obtaining a Nevada Driver's License

Eligible foreigners who wish to get a Nevada driver's license must complete the following:

  1. Written Test
  2. Vision Test
  3. On-Road Driving Test

For more details on driving in Nevada or applying for a driver's license, visit the Nevada DMV website.