Driver’s License – United States

In the United States, driver's licenses are issued by each state (or by Washington, DC), usually through its Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or an equivalent agency. The card shows the holder's photo, name, date of birth and address, the license class, any restrictions or endorsements, and the expiry date. In the US it is also widely used as proof of identity.

When do you need it translated?

• Applying to exchange it for a French licence through the ANTS, the French agency that handles driving licences. This is only possible for licenses from certain states, so check that yours qualifies.

• Driving in France while your US license is still recognised there, and showing it at a roadside check.

• Renting a car or taking out car insurance, if the company asks for it.

• Proving to an employer that you hold a license, for a job that involves driving.

Our translation

We translate everything on the front and back: printed details, restriction codes, signature and security mentions. Each state has its own design, which sometimes changed with the year of issue or differs for drivers under 21. Pick the version matching the state and period shown on your card.