Drivers License
Depending on where you are from you may or may not need to get a US drivers license. The United States has a reciprocity agreement with many countries that allow you to drive in the US with your foreign license.
International Driver’s Licenses and Reciprocity
International treaties, as well as state and federal laws, govern the operation of commercial and noncommercial vehicles by people licensed to drive by other countries. An individual may operate a noncommercial motor vehicle using a license issued by his or her home country. While operating a passenger vehicle in this state, nonresident drivers who hold a driver’s license issued by a country other than the United States must have in their immediate possession their valid license to operate a motor vehicle issued by that country and, if no English translation appears on the front or back of the license, one of the following:
- A valid international driving permit.
- A document containing a photo and an English translation that substantially corresponds to an international driving permit if the license to operate a motor vehicle is issued by a country that does not issue an international driving permit.
Courts and law enforcement officers should not seize and destroy foreign driver’s licenses pursuant to section 625g of the Michigan Vehicle Code.
Driver's License Application Process: The Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) has the latest Michigan Driver Handbook, forms and instructions on how to apply for a Michigan Driver License.
Once you have all the required documents from the Applicant Checklist, schedule an appointment with the SOS office. Please schedule your appointment through the SOS online booking system. The closest location is in the Shops at Centerpoint: 3601 28th St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512.
Automobile Insurance
Auto Insurance is required when you purchase or lease a vehicle in the US. You must have proof of insurance at the time you sign your purchase/lease agreement. Finding a good insurance company can be challenging if you've never had to do it before. There are many different coverage options and companies to choose from. Here are some resources to help with getting quotes or comparing quotes to see what is better.
https://www.usnews.com/360-reviews/insurance/auto/top?s=g&m=p&cid=19891…
Learn more about car insurance requirements for MI drivers here.
Social Security Card
Working in the US requires an employee to have a social security number (SSN). International students can only obtain a SSN after the receive an offer for employment. Here are the steps you need to take to apply for a SSN through the Social Security Administration (SSA).
- Apply for and receive an offer for employment.
- Complete the SSN application
- Gather your supporting documentation (passport, I-20, I-94, offer letter)
- Take your paperwork to the local SSA location and apply for your SSN
Location Information: The Grand Rapids Social Security Office Is Located On Knapp Street Within The Celebration Village Retail Area. The Office Is Situated North Of The Meijer Shopping Area Along Knapp Street Just West Of The Beltline (m37) Intersection. The Office Is A One-story, Stand Alone Building Easily Accessible Via Bus Route 15 On The Rapid. Ample Parking Is Available.
3045 Knapp St Ne
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Website: ssa.gov
Phone: 1-877-319-5710
TTY: 1-616-363-4128
Hours of Operation
Monday 9:00am - 4:00pm
Tuesday 9:00am - 4:00pm
Wednesday 9:00am - 12:00pm
Thursday 9:00am - 4:00pm
Friday 9:00am - 4:00pm
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
Academic Resources
Have you had a chance to visit the digital library? Did you know they have a ton of resources to help you be successful in your classes. To check out all the library has to offer visit the International Student Library Guide for more information.
Connect with Academic Advising to assist with scheduling classes, changing majors or answering questions related to academic policies and procedures.
Health and Wellness Resources
Did you know that Davenport provides on campus health and wellness services? The Wellness Center, based on Davenport University’s W.A. Lettinga Campus, houses Counseling Services and Health Services. Currently enrolled Davenport students are eligible to use all services within the Wellness Center.
Schedule and appointment to meet with a nurse: https://www.davenport.edu/health-services
Check out the counseling services available to students: https://www.davenport.edu/campus-life/counseling
To learn more about the International Student Health insurance program check out the Davenport Home page on the Gallagher Student Health & Special Risk website. This is where you can download the current summary of benefits, FAQ's and benefits highlights. It's also where you would waive or enroll coverage, during the open enrollment window.
Student Moving and Storage Resources
Two Men and a Truck have a customized student storage package for those students who need a place to store their belonging over the summer. If you are wondering what to do with your stuff this summer check www.twomen.com for more information or view the attached flyer for details.
Need a US phone number
Campus SIMs in partnership with Mint Mobile provides students with a SIM card at no charge for easy activation to get a US phone number associated with your current cell phone. You can find more information on the Davenport Campus SIMs page.