From Foreign Roads to the Bayou State: How to Get a Louisiana Driver's License

Welcome to Louisiana! As you begin to settle into your new life, obtaining a state driver's license is a vital step for navigating our unique and beautiful state. If you hold a driver's license from another country, the process can seem confusing. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from special agreements with certain countries to the step-by-step process for all newcomers.

The Most Important Question: Does Louisiana Have an Agreement with My Country?

This is the first thing you should determine. Louisiana's Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) has reciprocity agreements with a specific list of countries. If you hold a valid, unexpired driver's license from one of these nations, the process is significantly easier.

The countries with Louisiana driver's license reciprocity are:

• France
• Germany
• Republic of Korea (South Korea)
• Switzerland
• Taiwan

What Reciprocity Means for You

If your license is from one of these five countries, you are exempt from taking the knowledge (written) test and the road skills test. You will only need to pass the vision screening, provide the correct documentation, and pay the fees. This is a major advantage that saves you significant time and effort.

The Process for Drivers from Reciprocal Countries

If you are fortunate enough to have a license from France, Germany, South Korea, Switzerland, or Taiwan, here is your streamlined process:

1. Gather Your Documents: You'll need your valid foreign license, proof of identity (passport), proof of lawful U.S. status (visa, I-94), and two proofs of Louisiana residency. (More details on documents below).
2. Get a Translation (If Necessary): If your license is not in English, you must obtain a certified translation.
3. Visit an OMV Office: You must visit an official OMV location.
4. Surrender Your Foreign License: Be prepared to surrender your foreign driver's license to the OMV.
5. Pass Vision Test & Pay Fees: You'll take a simple vision test, have your photo taken, and pay the required fee. You will then be issued your new Louisiana driver's license.

The Full Process for Drivers from All Other Countries

If your country is not on the reciprocity list, you must go through the entire licensing process like any new driver in Louisiana. This includes the vision, written, and road skills tests.

Step 1: Gather Your Complete Documentation

This is the most critical part of the process. You must have all the correct original or certified documents before you can even begin.

• Proof of Identity and Lawful Presence: Your unexpired foreign passport with a valid U.S. Visa and an I-94 arrival/departure record are the primary documents. A Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or other valid USCIS documents are also acceptable.
• Your Valid Foreign Driver's License: You must present your current, unexpired license.
• Certified English Translation: If any part of your foreign license is not in English, you must provide a complete, certified translation. This can often be obtained from your country's consulate or a professional translation service.
• Proof of Social Security Number (or ineligibility): You need to present your Social Security card. If you are not eligible to receive one, you must get a letter from the Social Security Administration office confirming this.
• Two Proofs of Louisiana Residency: You must provide two separate documents that prove you live in Louisiana. These must show your name and current physical address and be dated within the last 90 days. Common examples include:
  • Utility bills (electric, water, gas)
  • Lease or mortgage agreement
  • Bank statement
  • Payroll stub

Step 2: Study the Louisiana Driver's Guide

You must learn the rules of the road in Louisiana to pass the written test. The official Louisiana Driver's Guide is your textbook. Study it thoroughly, paying close attention to traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can download it for free from the Louisiana OMV website.

Step 3: Pass the Vision and Written (Knowledge) Tests

Take all of your documents to an OMV office. There, you will:

1. Submit Your Paperwork: An OMV agent will review and verify all your documents.
2. Take the Vision Test: A quick screening to check your eyesight.
3. Take the Written Test: This is a multiple-choice test on a computer based on the Driver's Guide.

Upon passing these tests, you will be eligible to take the road test. You may be issued a learner's permit to practice legally.

Step 4: Schedule and Pass the Road Skills Test

This is the final test of your driving ability.

• Scheduling: You can schedule your road test at an OMV office or, often more quickly, at a third-party driving school authorized by the state.
• The Test: You must provide a vehicle that is properly registered, insured, and has a valid Louisiana inspection sticker ("brake tag"). An examiner will ride with you and assess your ability to safely handle the vehicle in traffic and perform specific maneuvers, such as parallel parking and a three-point turn.

Step 5: Get Your Louisiana License

After successfully passing the road test, you will pay the required fees and have your picture taken. Congratulations, you will be issued your official Louisiana driver's license!

The process requires careful preparation, but by following these steps, you can successfully navigate the system and earn your license to drive in the Bayou State.