DMV Requires Proof of Foreign Licences
The Department of Motor Vehicles now requires applicants who hold a valid driver’s licence from another country or jurisdiction to provide an official Driver’s License Report from the issuing authority. The DMV says applications submitted without this verification will not be processed and urges applicants to obtain the report before applying to avoid delays.
The Virgin Islands Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has introduced a new requirement for anyone applying for a local driver’s licence who currently holds a valid licence from another country or jurisdiction. According to an announcement on the DMV’s official Facebook page, applicants must submit a Driver’s License Report obtained from the authority that issued their existing licence.
The report must verify both the status and validity of the foreign licence. The DMV warned that any application lacking this document will not be processed. The move aims to strengthen verification of overseas licences and to streamline the licensing process locally by ensuring the DMV has authoritative confirmation of a licence holder’s standing abroad.
The requirement applies to all applicants seeking to convert or obtain a Virgin Islands licence when they already possess a licence issued elsewhere. Practical steps for applicants Applicants are strongly encouraged to request the Driver’s License Report from their issuing authority before submitting their application in the Virgin Islands.
Many countries offer online portals where such reports or records can be requested; others require contact with a licensing authority by email, post or via an embassy or consulate. Because international requests can take time, applicants should plan ahead and allow extra time for processing, translation, certification or postage.
If the report is not in English, the DMV may require a certified translation. Applicants should also bring their original foreign licence and any other identification or residency documentation normally required by the DMV when they submit their application. What this means for BVI residents and incoming drivers BVI residents who previously obtained licences overseas — including long-term residents, returning nationals and newcomers — should take immediate steps to obtain the Driver’s License Report to avoid having their applications delayed or rejected.
The new verification step may affect the timeline for converting licences, so early preparation will help keep travel and transport plans on track. For further clarification, applicants should consult the DMV’s Facebook announcement or contact the DMV directly to confirm acceptable formats, any translation or certification requirements, and expected processing times.
The change was reported by local media and posted by the DMV on its official social channels.
Primary source: VINO