Applying for a Driver’s License
To obtain a driver’s license, you will need to visit one of the nearby locations of the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV). You should bring your passport, your I-94, and a DS-2019 that is valid for at least 30 days. A Social Security Number may also be required, or a letter from Social Security Administration stating that you are not eligible for an SSN.
One of the following motor vehicle locations to apply for a driver’s license may be nearest to you:
- 7979 Independence Blvd. (Phone 225-925-6146)
- 12690 Perkins Rd. (Phone 225-366-6600)
Both offices open from 8:00 AM until 4:00 PM. For detailed information about traffic laws, driver’s licenses, office locations, and more, view the Louisiana OMV website here.
Driving Regulations & Safety Tips
US Driving Regulations
When driving a car in the US, remember the following:
- Fasten your seat belt while driving and make sure everyone in the car does the same.
- Do not text while driving.
- Follow speed limits posted on signs along the road; speeding tickets can be expensive.
- It is illegal to pass a stopped school bus that is loading or unloading children.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or certain drugs is a crime.
A Department of State Policy implemented on November 5, 2015, requires consular officers to revoke nonimmigrant visas of individuals arrested for, or convicted of, driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated (or similar arrests/convictions), when such arrest or conviction occurred within the previous five years. This means that a consular officer can revoke an individual’s visa (visa stamp in passport), even if the individual is physically in the United States. The consular officer will inform the visa holder (usually by e-mail), if the visa is revoked or cancelled. If this happens, the individual may continue to stay in the United States, but their visa is no longer valid for future travel to the United States. An individual whose visa has been revoked, and who departs the United States, must re-apply for a visa and may return to the United States if a new visa is granted. For more information, follow this link.
Annual Vehicle Safety & Emissions Inspections
Louisiana requires yearly safety and emissions inspections. There are many locations in Baton Rouge where a car can be inspected. Check the sticker on your car to learn when the inspection sticker expires. To find an inspector, look for a large bright orange sign at the business entrance announcing that the business is an official State of Louisiana vehicle safety and emissions inspector. To have your car inspected, you must provide unexpired proof of car insurance, the vehicle registration, and your driver’s license. You should have all three items in your car at all times.
Annual inspection costs about $20, and if your car passes the inspection, a sticker will be placed on the windshield with a new expiration date. If the car fails the inspection, you will be told what the car needs to pass. You will have 30 days after a failed inspection to make repairs and have the car re-inspected. For more information about car inspections, visit this website.
Police & Car Accidents
If you get pulled over by police, do not step out of your car unless the officer asks you to do so. Simply open the window and wait for the police officer to come to you. The officer will ask for your 1) driver’s license, 2) the registration for your vehicle, and 3) proof of insurance; make sure you always have these items with you while you are driving.
If you are involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage, stop your vehicle immediately if it is clear and safe. Do not leave the scene of the accident. Call the police and ask for an ambulance if it is needed. Call your insurance company as soon as it is practical to report the accident.
General Safety Tips
For emergencies, dial 911. For non-emergencies, call the Baton Rouge police at (225) 389-2000 or the LSU Police at (225) 578-3231.
Baton Rouge is a lovely city with friendly residents, but there are areas of the city which have higher rates of crime. The Baton Rouge Police Department has a very comprehensive list of safety tips on the city website. Below are some general tips:
- Avoid walking alone at night. Call Campus Transit for a ride instead.
- Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in parking garages, deserted or dimly-lit areas, or at ATMs (automatic teller machines at banks).
- Don’t leave belongings visible in your parked car.
For additional information, see the Louisiana Drivers Handbook at this link.
Alternate Forms of Transportation
Public Transportation
Public transportation is limited in Baton Rouge but is available as follows:
Taxis & Rideshare Services
- Yellow Cab of Baton Rouge is one of the main taxi services in the area; their phone number is (225) 926-6400.
- You can also search online for rideshare services, such as Uber.
- The standard tip for a driver is 15% of the fare.
Cycling
Please note that most roads in Baton Rouge do not have bike lanes or a bike path. It is likely that if you decide to use your bicycle for transportation, you will be riding on the road along with cars and other vehicles.
Many people ride their bikes along the Mississippi River Levee. The path is 4.5 miles long and has lighting, rest areas, water fountains, parking, and scenic views, making it a great place for family recreation. In addition, it extends all the way to the Riverfront Promenade in Downtown Baton Rouge, so it provides a great link between LSU campus and that part of the city.