Bob

It's handy to show it because it usually means you don't have to go through all the new driver requirements of x hours of classes, getting the drivers permit and holding it for y period and all that kind of rubbish. You can just go do the theory and then the drivers test. Does depend on the state though.

uktoyank

This site for NJ DMV says no need to hand your foreign license in exchange

state.nj.us/mvc/Licenses/LicensesNon-Citizens.htm

Michael

I hear that if you are missing your front teeth, Alabama automatically issues a driver's license.

AdobePinon

Here ya go!

scrubbedexpat099

Illegals can get licenses, but not swap them.

WJS

Have been away for a few days and just returned this afternoon. Thank you for all the useful information. Bob hopefully I won't have to take the test but will take my UK license to show if needed.

Petitefrancaise, thank you so much for posting that information, I never thought to look at the French embassy site. Sadly it is bad news in regards to a reciprocating arrangement but because of you at least now I know!

It is worrying what you said about the photo card here in France. I have spoken to the insurance company and it isn't a problem with them. In fact I even had them email this statement to me to be sure. But she did say it wasn't a problem for them in regards to the photo card expiring but she said she couldn't say how the police here would view it.

I will have to weigh it up and depending on how much longer we will be staying here perhaps it is worth the hassle to switch over before moving to the US. Can I ask how it affected you?

Thank you again for taking the time to post that information for me.

petitefrancaise

Well, I had no choice about swtiching my UK license for a french one - stopped by gendarmes for routine inspection and when I couldn't produce photocard, they issued me with a notice to get a french one asap.

Went along to the prefecture with what I thought was all the right documents but it turned out that I needed an attestation from DVLC showing what categories I was allowed to drive. DVLC were great and provided it in French! So, I went back with that and all the other bits of paper and they did a straight swap at the prefecture, license came through in a week or so.

It was super easy for me here, just ssn, proof of address, visa in passport and french license. Swapped over - ie they took my french license from me. However, if I go back to the UK, I will have to take my test again I think. That's rubbish!!

Pulaski

I am fairly certain you can reapply to have you UK licence reissued without a new road test, and I am certain that is the case if you return to the UK to live l within the validity of your original (most recent) UK licence, which was (is?) your 70th birthday.

petitefrancaise

thank god for that. My ability to parallel park has not improved over the years!