Living in the U.S.

Resources for students living in the U.S. attending Palo Alto University (PAU).

 

If you want to apply for California Driver’s License or ID you need to bring your I-20, I-94 and passport to the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) see addresses below. To apply for a driver's license you will need to take a vision test, a written test on California driving laws*, and an in car driving test. If you have just arrived in the United States you will need to wait at least 10 days to allow time for DMV to see your activated SEVIS record.  *Here is a free permit practice test to help you prepare for the written test.

 

If you want to avoid a long wait, it is highly recommended to make an appointment online. Two bay area DMV offices are:

F-1 students who are eligible to work on-campus and have on-campus jobs are eligible for Social Security Numbers. F-1 students who have been approved for Optional Practical Training or Curricular Practical Training, are also eligible to apply for a Social Security Number. You must provide your passport, I-20, I-94 card and employer letter. The Social Security Administration will only accept original documents and accept requests that are 30 days or less from your on-campus or CPT work start date! The two closest Social Security offices to PAU are:

 

1st Floor 701 N. Shoreline Blvd.

Mountain View, California 94043

(800) 772-1213

 

Here are some health insurance providers for F-1 international students and J-1 visiting scholars/professors:

 

•   Passport valid up to 6 months in the future

•   Valid F-1 visa

•    I-20 (travel signature on page 3 must be dated no later than 6 months)

Students on post completion Optional Practical Training must also present:

•  Valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

•  Letter from Employer on company letterhead, dated and signed by your supervisor.