Technically, you can get a car in the United States with an international driver’s license. Additionally, at this point and time, it is not legally required for dealerships to ask for your Social Security Number in order to sell you a car. Many of them choose to do it because they want to check your credit history. Or because they want to be selective about the people they sell cars to. The most important thing is that your international driver’s license has to be valid, it cannot be expired. Lenders who specialize in providing car loans for internationals in the U.S., such as Lendbuzz, require a driver’s license for identity verification purposes. In order to secure your car loan, you are able to provide your international driver’s license. (Remember that it can’t be expired.)

While you are fine to drive with your foreign license for some time, keep in mind the actual time allowed may vary for each state. Insurance may also be higher on an international license. I suggest getting a license from your state as soon as possible. Without a credit history, getting a loan will be tough.

I recommend getting a vehicle that is durable, Honda or Toyota are great vehicles. if you dont have any credit, and you dont have the cash up front, I also recommend to get a vehicle at the Auto Auction. FYI, buying a vehicle at a auto Auction does most often do not have vehicle warranty. Welcome and and good luck.

with no credit score it is almost impossible to get a car loan. in my case a bought a used car in cash and Progresive insurance accepted our international driver license for our car. took around 7 months to get your first credit score

Actually, you can drive with your international license for only 30 days or 6 mo (tourist visa). After that, if you become a resident you must have the DL from your state. (that's the law in California at least) my suggestion is: apply for DL in your state, pay everything in your credit card to build your credit. After you get your license from the state you go ahead and buy a new car. Nowadays, the rental cars has selling many good cars for a low price. Hertz, avis, budget. They have the own financial support or you can loan from your bank.

Some states may not accept international driving license (Heard this and not verified fact). please verify this in your state and be mindful of international drivers’ license requirement if you were to travel between the states via car. Pull over by cops will be hugely expensive.

Try a website called carvana. They are very lenient with financing.

Thank you all for you input. I appreciate it. One more thing, anybody taken advantage of the "foreign business professionals plan" offered by some brands / dealerships? https://www.reydelvw.com/professionals-plan.html

No but I’d stay away from VW.

@S B haha care to elaborate?

I’ve had 2 Jettas. Both were expensive to repair. one had electrical problems and the other had engine problems. They won’t last here in the US. from Google: “The Volkswagen Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 12th out of 32 for all car brands. This rating is based on an average across 345 unique models. The average annual repair cost for a Volkswagen is $676, which means it has above average ownership costs.”

@S B That’s good to know. Thanks

first car you can buy beaten down car just fur work and neighborhood shopping

you can get decent car for 5000 dollars. Once comfortable and you bill ip for credit go for a good car. First year in us is struggle but adventurous

@Rahul another great practical advice. Thanks Rahul

must you get a new car? just go and get auction car you just arrived you have a long way to go no rush in life