Foreign Driver’s License: If you have a foreign driver’s license or international driver’s license, you can drive in the state of Indiana for one year from your original date of entry into the US without restriction. Please note, you must have the ID translated into English if it’s not already listed.
Indiana Driver’s License: To obtain an Indiana driver’s license, you will need to take tests at the BMV. Please prepare the documents as required. It is highly recommended to study before the test. You will be required to take both a written and driving test.
If you have a driver’s license from your home country and want to apply for an Indiana driver’s license, please visit this Residents with Out-of-Country Licenses page on the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles website.
Requirements for a Car: You are required to have a driver’s license, car registration (through the BMV) and car insurance.
Required Paperwork for Indiana License
Unexpired passport
Valid visa
Form I-94 (printed)
Form I-20
Social Security Card
If you do not have a social security number, you must obtain a “proof of ineligibility” from the Social Security Administration (SSA). (See Social Security Number section)
Two proofs of address (Indiana residency)
Bank statement dated within 60 days of application
Utility company, credit card, or doctor bill issued 60 days of application
Letter from Residence life (on campus) or lease / rental agreement (off campus)
W-2 Form (issued by employers for tax purposes based on your income)
You will be able to pay via cash or possibly loan. If buying from a person, you will need to likely pay with cash or cashier’s check. If you buy from a dealership, they might have financing options.
If financing, please note you will be responsible for monthly payments, or your car may be taken back.
Obtain car insurance
All drivers are required to have car insurance. This is an additional expense that is completely required without exceptions. Some options are:
You will need to go to a BMV location in order to receive a license plate and registration for your vehicle. This is required prior to driving the car on the road.
Make sure you check what documents will be required for this appointment.
Obtain parking permit for Indiana Tech
You will need to have a parking permit for campus. Visit Parking Permits for more information on this process.
BMV Locations
There are three locations for the BMV in Fort Wayne, which are listed below. You are able to Make an Appointment but it is not required. You will want to check the hours of operation for each location as they are different.
BMV New Haven License Branch 709 Lincoln Highway West New Haven, IN 46774-2137 260.749.5178
BMV Fort Wayne Pine Valley 10204 Coldwater Rd Fort Wayne, IN 46825-2035 260.489.0690
BMV Waynedale Branch 6011 Bluffton Road Fort Wayne, IN 46809
Requirements to Own a Car
If you plan on driving or purchasing a car, you must have this car registered with the BMV and you must have car insurance. Having a license, registration and insurance are three requirements by law.
If you need insurance, you can run an internet search for “Car Insurance Indiana” and start there.
Disclaimer: Indiana Tech cannot help you locate, negotiate, or pay for a vehicle. The process is unique to each car and seller, and it is important that you fully research everything on your own. It is your responsibility to be licensed, fully register your car, and have car insurance for any vehicle you own while in the United States.
