A driver’s license is a very important document because not only does it give the driver the legal right to drive it is also used to verify a person’s identity in many countries throughout the world.

What’s the DMV?

The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is the U.S. agency that is responsible for everything that is related to vehicles such as car registration.

The key requirement when translating a driver’s license for the DMV is when you get your driver’s license translated you will need a certified translation that indicates the translation is literal and has been completed word for word and is complete and accurate. Certification includes a signed statement that states the translation is a complete and accurate translation of the original driver’s license document. This is called a Certificate of Translation Accuracy.

How to translate a driver’s license for the DMV

It is quite an easy process getting your driver’s license translated if you follow the process which is described below:

1. Find a suitable driver’s license translation service. The one you select needs to be able to produce a translation that will meet the requirements of the local DMV office.
2. Request a quote and dispatch time but a driver’s license translation is usually completed between 24-72h from the time the original driver’s license is received.
3. Submit your license electronically to get your driver’s license translation which must include both the back and front of it. You must also provide your name, email address, and phone number.
4. As soon as your driver’s license translation is completed, the translator or translation services will make sure it has been reviewed to ensure accuracy. You will be sent an electronic copy and if you choose a hard copy by post.

There are 3 situations when you may require a translation of your driver’s license which are:

• You possess a U.S. license and you have the plan to visit and drive in another country.
• You have submitted an application for a job overseas that states you must have a valid driver’s license.
• You have an overseas driver’s license which you must show to the Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV).

International Driving Permits

If you intend to drive in New York the state requires you have an International Driving Permit (IDP), or international driving license. An IDP is the translation of a domestic or national driver’s license that provides the holder with the right to drive in all countries that recognize this document. The IDP can be legally used in 140 countries which includes the US, Australia, the United Kingdom, and Japan.

Can I provide a translation of my driver’s license?

No, this isn’t possible because a driver’s license is a legal document and you cannot translate it yourself according to DMV rules. You shouldn’t get family or friends to help you either as this is considered to be a conflict of interest which would result in the DMV rejecting your translation.

What is the cost of translating a driver’s license?

The price is calculated based on the following factors: 

• the driver’s license length;  
• the format; 
• the language combination. 

Even though a driver’s license is considered to be quite a common document, state translation requirements are not always the same. You should check your state’s requirements before submitting your driver’s license for translation.