I have faced a situation where I had to always carry my passport during the initial days of my stay in the United States. I used to be very careful and diligent while carrying my passport to show my age proof or for other identity reasons, worried I might lose it. I would suggest all the immigrants to apply for a state identity card or driver’s license when they arrive to the United States. A driver’s license might take a while since you may need to get acquainted to the road system, traffic rules and the high ways here, but getting a state identification card should be quick.

What documents do you need to carry to the State DPS (Department of Public Safety)?

The basic documents necessary to apply for state id are:

• Original Passport and Visa
• I-94 card
• H-4 approval notice (I-797)
• H-1B approval notice (I-797) of your spouse
• Any Utility bill (one or two), which is on your name with current address on the bill

Other documents you might consider taking:

• Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN): This number can be obtained through a tax consultant, when your spouse files his/her tax. You need to specifically ask for ITIN for yourself, not your spouses.
• Ineligibility letter from SSN Office: You can go to the Social Security office, show your passport and they provide all the H-4 candidates with a denial letter.
• Lease Agreement Papers, if you are on the rental apartment lease.
• Bank accounts statements.
• Medical Insurance.
• International Driver’s license or any identity proof if you have any.

Did you or your spouse apply for a state identification card or driver’s license in the U.S? Did you have to provide any extra documentation? Please comment in the blog post or write to us at [email protected]. This shall help our visitors.