Life in Ohio

Living in Southwest Ohio »

Weather

The average temperatures in Ohio range in Fahrenheit degrees from the 20s in the winter to the 80s in the summer. The weather in Ohio can change quickly and the temperatures can fluctuate greatly. Someone once said “If you don’t like the weather, wait 15 minutes, it’ll change!”   

When you arrive in August, be prepared for temperatures in the high 80 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s quite warm! But in the winter, the temperatures can drop as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit in January and February. When you consider the wind chill factor, it may feel as low as -30 degrees Fahrenheit.   

Be prepared to dress in layers so you can warm up and cool down as the weather changes. Be sure you have a very warm winter coat, hat, gloves, and boots for snow! A raincoat is also a must-have item as umbrellas do not hold up well in the wind.

Ohio Driver's License

To qualify for an Ohio driver’s license, your I-20 must have been issued at least one year prior to your test date. Typically, freshmen do not qualify to test for a driver’s license.

To get your driver’s license:

1. Study the Digest of Motor Vehicle Laws, available in PDF format from the International Student Services office.
2. Gather your documents
• Valid Passport
• Current I-20
• Your I-94 Admission Number
• Letter from International Student Services verifying your current status and address
• Your Social Security number (though not officially required, it is often impossible to get a driver’s permit without one)
3. Go to the nearest Ohio Highway Patrol driver’s license exam station.
   
   

   Bureau of Motor Vehicles
   Ledbetter Rd
   Xenia, OH 45385
   
   Phone: (937) 372-4282
   Website
   
   Hours: 
   Monday – Friday 8 a.m. –5 p.m.
   Saturday 8 a.m.–2 p.m.

If you pass the computerized test, you will be issued a driver’s permit, which allows you to drive on the road with a licensed adult driver in the front seat. The cost for the permit is approximately $22.

4. Practice your driving skills and, when ready, make an appointment for a driver’s road test at the Ohio Highway Patrol driver’s license exam station.
   (International Student Services cannot provide a vehicle for your use.)
5. Once you pass your driver’s test, you will be issued an Ohio Driver’s License. The cost for the Driver’s License is approximately $23.

Automobile Insurance

It is illegal to operate a vehicle in the United States without insurance coverage.   

In Ohio, it is illegal to drive any motor vehicle without insurance or other proof of financial responsibility. It is also illegal for any motor vehicle owner to allow another person to drive the owner's vehicle without financial responsibility (FR) proof. To comply with Ohio's FR requirements, individuals must maintain insurance or get a bond. 

Explanation of Insurance »

Currency

U.S. money can be confusing. Here is a quick chart to help you understand terms and values, particularly for coins.

Explanation and Pictures »

Mail and Postage

Cedarville University has a Post Office right on campus. Letters can be mailed directly from the Cedarville University Post Office. Postage can be purchased on site as well.