UK to US driving license
 

I have a full UK driving license, and I will be moving to MO with my OH next summer. How do I get a license in the state of MO? What are the requirements? Am I allowed to drive on my UK one for a bit, if at all?

Thanks in advance!

Re: UK to US driving license
 

The state DMV is the go-to organization for driving/auto info. Here is the link to the MO DMV:

Missouri New License Application Info | DMV.org

Re: UK to US driving license
 

You can't switch a UK driving licence for a state drivers license, you will have to take the state required drivers ed and/or theory tests for whichever state you are living in then you have to do the road "test" (unless you're in NJ), which depends on the state, but is always much easier than the British driving test, and quite frankly is a complete joke in many states. It is no wonder that the standard of driving in the US is so appaling. You may be asked for your SSN, most states do.

You will be required to obtain a local drivers license within 10-90 days of taking up residence as defined by the state DMV (which has nothing to do with "residence" for IRS/tax, immigration, or any other purpose), depending on what the state allows. It looks like it's 30 days in MO, it certainly is to register an out of state car, though I can't immediately see the same time-frame stated for a DL. This may or may not be realistic, but so long as you have made a start on the process and are waiting for your test appointment you should be OK to drive (carefully).

Re: UK to US driving license
 

No. Dmv.org is a commercial aggregator site, not the state site itself. The correct link is here: http://dor.mo.gov/drivers/

Re: UK to US driving license
 

As Pulaski says.Note Owens caution use the correct website as a commercial website could create more problems and likely fees than it solves.

MO is fairly parochial ( I mean that in the nicest possible way) but my personal advice is to find the quietest possible DMV office you can far away from the madding crowds (think not in a city/ large urban area) and process your application there.

Re: UK to US driving license
 

I agree, I did the same in New York, far away from NYC, in the back of beyond. :)

Re: UK to US driving license
 

Thanks for spotting that -- speed kills! ;)

Re: UK to US driving license
 

It appears that you need an SS number or documentation before you can apply. http://dor.mo.gov/pdf/idrequirements.pdf

If a Social Security Number has not been assigned, the applicant must present
a letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA) regarding the status of
the applicant’s Social Security Number.

So maybe a trip to the local SSA first and get some form of documentation.

Re: UK to US driving license
 

The OP already has an SSN (right at the bottom of post #1). :)

Re: UK to US driving license
 

Still might be worth a trip to update the SSA record to reflect current status once he enters the country.

Re: UK to US driving license
 

Don't assume you can wing the theory test. (from my experience in MA) the goal of the test is to scare the bejesus out of 17 year old boy racers. You need to know the fines and suspension times for various stupid road tricks.

Re: UK to US driving license
 

And odd utterly useless stuff like blood alcohol levels and the shapes of road signs - most warning signs are yellow squares balanced on their corner - but what is the warning sign that is a yellow circle, a house shape, ..... and a pennant? Which they show you without the symbols or wording that usually appears on them. :confused:

Re: UK to US driving license
 

What does one do with the UK licence when they no longer live there? The DVLA won't let you change the address to an overseas one.

Is it acceptable to register it a a family member / friends place, just in case you need it again in the future?

Re: UK to US driving license
 

Keep it in a safe place...also keep a copy. If you move back to the UK you can get it renewed.

Re: UK to US driving license
 

Many people do register it to a relative's address, others think that it's pointless. I am on the fence. ..... If you move back to the UK you can easily get it reissued up to your 70th birthday.

When you visit the UK it is best to use your US/non-EU license anyway, because the police/courts can't put points on it. :sneaky: