This page contains information for Penn State Beaver international students who want assistance in obtaining a Pennsylvania driver's license. For information about the license process, refer to the PennDOT Driver & Vehicle Services website. 

Internationals who do not qualify for a Pennsylvania driver's license but who are in legal status in the United States can drive for one year with a valid foreign driver's license.  It is recommended that they also have an international driving permit.

Driver's manual and application form

Obtain a Pennsylvania Driver's Manual and Form DL-180: Non-Commercial Learner's Permit Application from the PennDOT site. Driver's manuals are available in a number of languages.

Physical exam

The application requires that a physical examination be completed. Enrolled students can request a physical by contacting Nurse Barb Kugel at 724-773-3955, [email protected], or in person in RAB 104 to schedule an appointment with the campus doctor. Be sure to take the application form with you to the appointment.

Social Security card

You will need a Social Security card or a Letter of Ineligibility, also referred to as a denial letter, from the Social Security Administration (SSA) stating that you are not eligible for a Social Security card. The Social Security office closest to Penn State Beaver is located at 120 Merchant Street, Ambridge, PA 15003. If you need transportation to the Social Security office, contact Jill Bender [email protected] to arrange a shuttle. 

Necessary documents

Gather the following original documents:

  • The completed DL-180
  • Valid Passport
  • Most recent I-94
  • Valid I-20 or DS-2019
  • Two proofs of residency in Pennsylvania. See PennDOT's Proof of Identity and Residency page for a list of acceptable documents. This information is available in a number of languages.

Driver's License Center

The closest Pennsylvania Driver's License Center is located in Chippewa Township. The address is 2580 Constitution Boulevard, Beaver Falls, PA 15010. Phone: 724-384-1083 or 1-800-932-4600. You can find the center's hours by searching for Beaver County the PennDOT website's location finder.