Not every state will recognize your country's driver's license or the international driver's license. To obtain a state driver's license, you probably will be required to demonstrate your knowledge of the traffic laws in your state. You may also be required to take a driving test. Never drive a vehicle unless you understand all of the applicable road rules, recognize all of the road signs, and possess a valid license to drive. Your foreign-student adviser can explain how to obtain a driver's license in your state.
Most states require car owners to purchase and maintain automobile insurance.
Whether or not your state has or enforces such a policy, you should purchase insurance if you plan to own a vehicle. In case of an accident, automobile insurance protects you against most of the cost of injuries and repairs. The cost of repairs can be very high. In some states, you may be required to pay for the cost of repairing the other vehicle if you caused the accident. Your foreign-student adviser can assist you in finding appropriate car insurance.