New to Oregon? A Step-by-Step Guide to Exchanging Your Foreign License

Welcome to the beautiful state of Oregon! As you settle into your new life, one of the most important steps to ensure your mobility is obtaining a valid Oregon driver's license. While you can drive on your valid foreign license as a visitor, the law requires you to get an Oregon license shortly after establishing residency.

The process of transferring an international license can seem confusing, but the Oregon Driver & Motor Vehicle Services (DMV) has a clear pathway. This guide will walk you through every step, from understanding crucial reciprocity agreements to gathering your documents and taking the required tests.

Step 1: Understand Residency and Reciprocity Rules

The first step is to determine how Oregon's laws apply to you, which largely depends on your country of origin and your residency status.

Establishing Oregon Residency

You can drive in Oregon with a valid, unexpired driver's license from your home country. However, once you become an Oregon resident, you must obtain an Oregon driver's license. You are considered a resident if you take actions such as working, paying tuition, or remaining in Oregon for six months or more. It is best to begin the licensing process as soon as you establish residency.

Reciprocity Agreements: The Key to Waiving Tests

The most significant factor in your licensing journey is whether your home country has a reciprocity agreement with Oregon. These agreements can make the process much simpler.

• Countries with Reciprocity: Oregon has driver's license reciprocity agreements with Germany, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan.
• What This Means for You: If you hold a valid, unexpired standard passenger car license from one of these four countries, the drive test (road test) will be waived. You will, however, still be required to pass the vision screening and the written knowledge test.
• All Other Countries: If your driver's license is from any country not on this list, you must complete the full licensing process as if you were a new driver. This includes passing the vision test, the knowledge test, and the full on-road drive test.

Always check the official Oregon DMV website for the most current information on reciprocity agreements, as they can change.

Step 2: Assemble Your Required Documents

The Oregon DMV has strict documentation requirements to prove your identity, legal presence, and address. All documents must be originals or certified copies.

Required Documentation Checklist:

1. Your Foreign Driver's License: You must present your physical, valid, and unexpired license. It must be surrendered to the DMV.
   • Certified Translation: If your license is not in English, you must provide a certified translation of the license from an approved translator.
2. Proof of Legal Presence, Identity, and Date of Birth: For most non-U.S. citizens, this will be:
   • A valid, unexpired Passport from your country of origin.
   • A valid U.S. Visa along with your I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.
   • Other valid immigration documents, like an I-20 or DS-2019.
   • A valid Permanent Resident Card (Green Card).
3. Proof of Social Security Number (if applicable): You must provide your Social Security card if one has been issued to you.
4. Proof of Oregon Residency: You must provide two separate documents showing your name and current physical Oregon address. PO Boxes are not acceptable. Common examples include:
   • Utility bills (electric, gas, water, etc.)
   • A current, signed rental or lease agreement
   • Bank statements or credit card bills
   • An Oregon vehicle title or registration card

You can find a complete, detailed list of acceptable documents on the DMV's website.

Step 3: The Licensing and Testing Process

With your documents prepared, you must make an appointment at a DMV office to begin the process.

For Reciprocal Countries (Germany, Japan, S. Korea, Taiwan):

1. Make a DMV Appointment: Schedule your visit online.
2. Present Documents: Provide all the required documentation listed above.
3. Pass the Vision Test: Your eyesight will be checked to ensure it meets state standards.
4. Pass the Written Knowledge Test: You must pass a multiple-choice test covering Oregon's traffic laws, signs, and safe driving practices. The Oregon Driver Manual is your essential study guide.
5. Pay Fees and Get Your License: After passing the tests, you'll pay the required fees and surrender your foreign license. You will receive a temporary paper license, and your permanent card will be mailed to you.

For All Other (Non-Reciprocal) Countries:

1. Apply for an Instruction Permit: You must first pass the vision screening and the written knowledge test. Upon passing, you will be issued an Oregon Instruction Permit.
2. Schedule Your Drive Test: With your permit, you can now schedule your on-road drive test. You can do this with the DMV or a licensed third-party testing provider.
3. Pass the Drive Test: You must pass the practical, on-road examination to demonstrate your driving skills.
4. Get Your License: After successfully passing the drive test, you will return to the DMV (if you used a third-party tester), surrender your permit and foreign license, pay the fees, and be issued your full Oregon driver's license.

By carefully following these steps and preparing all your documents in advance, you can ensure a smooth transition to becoming a licensed driver in Oregon. Welcome to the road!