Do I Need A Driver License for U.S Northeast/Tri-State Area McKinsey Staffing?

Question

Hi, I currently do not have a driver license (yet) and will be staffed on projects in McKinsey soon (home office is Tri-State Area or U.S Northeast generally).

1) I was wondering if there are going to be any limitations on what kinds of studies (cases) I am staffed on if I don't know how to drive yet?

2) What does travel look like to & from the airport/hotel/client site usually... If urban-based project, then McKinsey will naturally pay for an Uber right... But how often is that the case, given consulting is so broad and theres probably lots of rural/suburban projects? In that situation, is it common to instead be asked to rent a car to do traveling (once you're off the plane)?

Currently taking driving classes but its going to take some time, so not sure if I should be trying to accelerate that process

Answer 1

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on your upcoming career start with McKinsey!

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your questions:

First of all, unless explicitely stated in the job description, it’s not a requirement at all to have a driver’s license, even in the Northeast or Tri-State area. I would advise you to continue your driving lessons at your own pace but not stress too much about it.
Moreover, in urban-based projects, yes, McKinsey will normally cover taxi rides. If the project is more rural or suburban, travel arrangements are usually made with that in mind - sometimes you’re paired with another team member who drives, or the firm arranges other transport.
Lastly, while in rare cases a project might involve heavy local commuting where a rental car is expected, you would not be forced into driving if you're not licensed.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare for your upcoming consulting career start, please don’t hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Answer 2

I really doubt this will be a limitation. Or, at least, I've never heard of anybody not being staffed on a particular project because they didn't have a driver's license.

You can take taxis, trains, buses, planes, anything really. The firm doesn't expect you to drive yourself to the client. In 5 years at McKinsey I never drove myself.

So I woulnd't worry about taking driving classes just for this.

Best,
Cristian

Answer 3

Hi,

I don't think this will be a limitation, especially for your geography. I assume you could take alternative means of transportation and/or Uber for short distances. I never heard in my consulting career that one is expected to drive a car to the client.

Answer 4

Hey there :)

Not having a license won’t usually limit the projects you get staffed on, especially in urban areas like NYC or Boston, McKinsey typically covers Uber or taxis for airport and local travel. For more suburban or rural projects, they might expect you to rent a car, but that’s less common for new joiners. Taking driving classes is smart, but don’t stress about rushing it; most travel can be managed with rideshares and office support.

best, Alessa :)

Answer 5

It is unlikely that you will need to drive yourself to the client. So my understanding is that no.