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New to the U.S.
For international newcomers: documents, driving, banking, English classes and support.
Checklist
Your first weeks
In your first few weeks, save your I-94 record, get a phone and a bank account, apply for a Social Security number if you are eligible, and enroll children in school.
- Social Security office
- 1249 S. Vinnell Way, Suite 101, Boise
- When to apply for an SSN
- About 10 days after you arrive (students: 48 hours after reporting to school)
Driving in Idaho
Visitors who are not Idaho residents can drive on a valid license from their home country.
- Visiting
- Drive on your valid home-country license; carry it with you
- Moved here
- Get an Idaho license within 30 days
Banking & credit
You do not need a Social Security number to open a U.S.
- SSN needed for a bank account?
- No; an ITIN or passport works at many banks
- Get an ITIN
- Form W-7 with a tax return; about 7 weeks
English & interpreters
The College of Western Idaho and Learning Lab both teach English to adults for free, and local libraries host free conversation groups.
- Free classes
- College of Western Idaho (Boise and Nampa) and Learning Lab (Garden City)
- Practice speaking
- Free conversation groups at Boise and Meridian libraries
Refugee & immigrant support
Two resettlement agencies work in Boise, the International Rescue Committee and the Agency for New Americans, coordinated by the Idaho Office for Refugees at (208) 947-4296.
- Resettlement agencies
- International Rescue Committee and Agency for New Americans, both in Boise
- State coordinator
- Idaho Office for Refugees, (208) 947-4296