Q. Do I need a North Carolina driver’s license to drive a car in the Outer Banks?

"This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers."

1 John 3:16

A. Not necessarily. To drive in North Carolina you will need a driver’s license, but according to state law, temporary international visitors on programs such as the J-1 Work/Travel program can drive in North Carolina using an International Driver’s License. However, this privilege is temporary (30 days from entry into the country.)  And if you intend to purchase an automobile, you must have a North Carolina driver’s license.

Q. How difficult is the written test for a driver’s license?

A. The test consists of a realistic number of multiple choice questions (normally about 25).  A failing score is more than three wrong answers.  Questions are cleverly worded and must be read carefully, but all of the answers can be found in the Department of Motor Vehicles “ Driver’s Handbook” that can be found on the DMV’s website or at the Pathways House in Kill Devil Hills.  Important: read carefully the blue and red colored boxes on each page. 

Q. Is it possible to extend my J-1 visa?

A.  Unfortunately, the Work/Travel Program has no provisions for visa extensions.

Q. Is it possible to convert my J-1 visa to another visa type – for example, to a Student Visa?

A. Yes, it is possible (but not easy). To qualify for this, you must be accepted by a qualified educational institution and you must have a sponsor capable of guaranteeing significant living and study expenses. If interested in speaking with someone at College of the Albemarle on the Outer Banks, call for an appointment;(252- 473-2264).

Q.  Is my employer authorized to withhold Social Security payments from my paycheck?

A. No. If your employer does not know this, you may refer him to Pathways.  We can furnish the needed Social Security documentation that establishes this exception.

Q. If I do not participate in the Social Security program why do I need to register for Social Security in order to be qualified for employment?

A. It is a national requirement of the Homeland Security Program. You can however work for the employer who you contracted with while waiting for your social security card.