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 the nurse at 724-773-3955 or in person in RAB 104 to schedule an appointment with the campus doctor. The campus nurse will have the required form available in the office at the time of your 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. This process can be completed online.
If directed to visit the Social Security Office in person, you must make an appointment. The Social Security Office is located at 350 Logan Lane, Ambridge, PA 15003. If you need transportation assistance 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
- 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. Please contact Jill Bender at [email protected] if you need assistance with transportation to get your permit.
For assistance studying for your driver's permit test, try this free online practice test.
Please note that once a student obtains their driver's permit, the university cannot assist with practice driving or taking the license test. Students are encouraged to participate in behind the wheel training with an approved instructor. Students are responsbile for any fees assocaited with driver's training. Please see Jill Bender for an updated list of driver's training companies in the area.