New to Wyoming? How to Exchange Your Foreign Driver's License in 2025

Welcome to the Cowboy State! As you settle into your new life in Wyoming, one of the most important practical steps you'll take is obtaining a local driver's license. While you can drive with a valid foreign license as a visitor, state law requires you to get a Wyoming license from the Department of Transportation (WYDOT) once you establish residency.

The process of transferring a foreign license can seem complex, but this guide will break it down into simple, actionable steps. We will cover residency rules, crucial reciprocity agreements that can save you time and effort, all the necessary documentation, and the tests you will need to take to drive legally in your new home state.

Step 1: Understand Residency and Reciprocity

The first thing to determine is how Wyoming's laws apply to your specific situation, which largely depends on your country of origin.

Establishing Wyoming Residency

You may drive in Wyoming on a valid, unexpired license from your home country for up to one year. However, once you become a resident of Wyoming (by accepting employment, enrolling in school, buying property, etc.), you must obtain a Wyoming driver's license to continue driving legally.

Reciprocity Agreements: The Key to Waiving Tests

This is the most critical piece of information for many international newcomers. A reciprocity agreement means the WYDOT Driver Services Program has an understanding with another country to recognize its licensing standards, which significantly simplifies the process for you.

• Countries with Reciprocity: Wyoming has driver's license reciprocity agreements with Germany, South Korea, and Taiwan.
• What This Means for You: If you hold a valid, unexpired non-commercial driver's license from one of these three countries, the state will waive the driving skills test (road test).
• What is NOT Waived: You will still be required to pass the vision screening and the written knowledge test. This is a key point: reciprocity in Wyoming does not exempt you from the written exam.
• All Other Countries: If your driver's license is from any country not on this list, you must complete the entire licensing process as if you were a brand-new driver. This includes passing the vision, knowledge, and full on-road driving skills tests.

Step 2: Assemble Your Essential Documents

The WYDOT Driver Services Program has very strict documentation requirements. All documents must be originals or certified copies. No photocopies will be accepted.

Required Documentation Checklist:

1. Your Valid Foreign Driver's License: You must be prepared to surrender your physical, valid license from your home country.
   • Certified Translation: If your license is not in English, you MUST provide a certified translation. An International Driving Permit (IDP) can serve this purpose but must be accompanied by your actual license.
2. Proof of Identity and Lawful Presence: This is a crucial step. For non-U.S. citizens, you will typically need a combination of the following:
   • A valid, unexpired Foreign Passport.
   • A valid, unexpired U.S. Visa and your I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.
   • A valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
3. Proof of Social Security Number: You must present your original Social Security card or other acceptable proof (like a W-2 form). If you are not eligible for a Social Security Number, you must provide a letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA) confirming your ineligibility.
4. Two Proofs of Wyoming Residency: You must provide two separate documents from different sources that show your name and current physical Wyoming address (PO Boxes are not accepted). These documents must be less than one year old. Examples include:
   • Utility bills (electric, gas, water).
   • A current, signed lease or rental agreement.
   • Bank or credit card statements mailed to your WY address.
   • A recent payroll stub.
5. Completed Application Form: You can get the "Driver License Application" form at the exam station or download it from the WYDOT website to fill out in advance.

Step 3: The Licensing and Testing Process

With your documents in hand, you must make an appointment to visit a driver exam station.

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

1. Make a Driver Exam Station Appointment: Schedule your visit online.
2. Present Documents: Provide all the required documentation from the checklist above.
3. Pass the Vision Test: An examiner will check your eyesight to ensure it meets state safety standards.
4. Pass the Written Knowledge Test: You must pass the multiple-choice test on Wyoming traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The Wyoming Driver License Manual is your essential study guide.
5. Surrender License and Pay Fees: Once you pass the tests, you will surrender your foreign license and pay the required fees.
6. Receive Your License: You will receive a temporary paper license, and your permanent photo license will be mailed to you.

For All Other (Non-Reciprocal) Countries:

1. Apply for an Instruction Permit: You must first pass the vision test and the written knowledge test. Upon passing, you will be issued a Wyoming Instruction Permit.
2. Practice Driving (Optional but Recommended): Even if you are an experienced driver, it is wise to practice on local roads to become familiar with any unique traffic patterns or signs before your road test.
3. Schedule a Skills Test: With your permit, you can now schedule your on-road driving skills test for a future date.
4. Pass the Skills Test: You must successfully pass the practical road test, which includes maneuvers like parallel parking, a three-point turn, and hill parking.
5. Get Your License: After passing the skills test, you will surrender your instruction permit and foreign license, pay the fees, and be issued your full Wyoming driver's license.

By meticulously gathering your documents and preparing for the required tests, you can confidently navigate the steps to becoming a legally licensed driver in your new home state.