A licensed driver who moves to the District from another jurisdiction is required to convert their out-of-state driver license to a DC driver license if residing in DC for more than 30 days. A DC driver license is valid for up to eight years for US citizens and may vary for non-US citizens depending on visa classification. The knowledge and road skill tests are required, if your out-of-state drivers license has been expired for more than 90 days.
The former license must be relinquished to obtain a DC License. If you do not have your out-of-state license in your possession, we will accept a certified driving record (issued within the last 30 days) reflecting the license is in good standing and not expired for more than 90 days.
Non-US Citizens may be eligible for a DC driver license if they meet eligibility requirements.
The Patriot Act, Public Law 108-458, National Intelligence Reform Act of 2004 does NOT allow for social security numbers to be displayed on driver licenses or identification cards.
Requirements
You are a resident of DC
You have no outstanding debts to the District of Columbia or unpaid fines for moving traffic violations in other jurisdictions
You must provide documents from all of the following categories:
- Proof of Identity
- Proof of Social Security Number
- Proof of Current Residency
- Proof of Ability to Drive
Service Locations
To obtain a learner permit, you may visit any service location except the Adjudication Services, Brentwood Road Test Office and Inspection Station.
Steps
- Complete the Driver License Application*
- Provide the required documents
- Take and pass the vision screening test
- If you are a foreign national and trying to convert your foreign driver license*, you must also take a written knowledge test
- Take a photograph (DC law and policy requires a full frontal digital photo that shows either the ears or up to the hairline without exposing the hair)
- Pay the appropriate fees
- Relinquish your out of state driver license
- Obtain your DC driver license
If you possess a non-English language driver license from a foreign country, you must attach an English translation from your embassy or from a certified translator. The embassy translation must be on official embassy letterhead. The date of the translation must be on or after the actual date of the non-English language driver license. Certified translator copies must have a raised certification stamp.
NOTE: Please check the DMV Service Location page to find a location that processes international transactions.
The Document Verification Guide will assist you with determining which documents you will need to collect and bring to DC DMV. Click here to begin.
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