Hi! So as an incoming international freshman during Fall 2020, I was wondering what the next steps to take are in terms of paperwork and documents. I know I have to send the I-20 when I get the paperwork from my university, but I’m wondering how I could get an American driver’s license and other required documents so I can get a head start. Thanks!
You won’t be able to get a driver’s license until you actually move to a US state, but you can start looking online at what the requirements are. In the meantime, before you travel to the US, you should obtain an international license, which will enable you to drive until you obtain a local license. You will also probably need a local bank account, but that may have to wait until you have a visa and a local address. You could also investigate TransferWise, a kind of virtual bank that is good at dealing with expats and travelers. Talk with your school’s international students office, as they will have been through this all before and should be able to provide useful guidance.
What other “required documents” would you need?
Visa and your country’s ID is about it. You don’t need a drivers license because there should be available transportation at your school. You probably want your own credit card but that would come from your home bank.