How to get a Driving license in New York: Documents Required, Eligibility, Tests for Driving licenses, Validity
To get a driving license in New York, you need to follow these general steps:
You can start your application at a DMV office or online.
Online
- You can finish your application at the DMV, but you can also submit it online and take the test from home. You will require a web-enabled computer, smartphone, or tablet with a webcam, your identity documentation, and, if you are under 18, a parent or guardian to monitor your test-taking.
- For further information check
At a DMV office
- Bring your application
- proofs of identity, age, and residence
- fee for payment
You must correctly answer at least 14 out of the 20 multiple-choice questions, including at least two of the four questions about traffic signs, in order to pass. You can attempt again if you don’t succeed. We will issue you a temporary permit in the office if you pass your written test. Your permit will be mailed to you in two weeks.
Determine the Document Class You Need
Prior to submitting an application for a learner permit, you must determine the kind of documentation you require based on the vehicle type and intended use. There are particular requirements for each kind of licence.
- Class D: Operator – this is what most people have (or DJ – Junior Operator, if under 18)
- Class A, B, or, C: Commercial (CDL) – required to drive tractor-trailers, buses, etc. Learn about CDLs.
- Class M: Motorcycle – Learn about motorcycle licenses.
- Class E: Taxi or Livery
Documents Required
- Proof of identity: You will need to provide a document that proves your identity, such as a valid U.S. passport, permanent resident card, or other government-issued identification.
- Proof of age: You must be at least 16 years old to apply for a driver’s license in New York. You will need to provide a document that proves your age, such as a birth certificate, passport, or other government-issued identification.
- Proof of residence: You will need to provide proof of your current New York State address, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
- Social Security number: You will need to provide your Social Security number or a letter of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration.
- Completed driver’s education course: If you are under 18 years old, you will need to provide proof of completion of a state-approved driver’s education course.
- Learner’s permit: You must first obtain a learner’s permit and hold it for at least six months before you can apply for a driver’s license.
- Certificate of completion for the required practice driving hours: You will need to provide a certificate of completion for the required practice driving hours, which includes at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 15 hours of driving after sunset.
- It is recommended to check the specific requirements and procedures on the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website before you apply, as the process can vary depending on your individual circumstances.
Eligibility
- Age: You must be at least 16 years old to apply for a driver’s license in New York.
- Residency: You must be a resident of New York State and have a valid New York State address.
- Learner’s permit: You must first obtain a learner’s permit and hold it for at least six months before you can apply for a driver’s license.
- Driver’s education course: If you are under 18 years old, you must complete a state-approved driver’s education course before you can apply for a driver’s license.
- Practice driving hours: While holding your learner’s permit, you must complete at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 15 hours of driving after sunset.
- Pass the road test: You must pass a road test administered by the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to demonstrate your driving skills.
Tests for Driving licenses
- Written knowledge test: This test assesses your understanding of the rules of the road and the laws that govern driving in New York. The test is computer-based and multiple-choice, and you will need to score at least 70% to pass.
- Road test: This test assesses your driving skills and your ability to safely operate a vehicle. You will need to demonstrate your ability to perform basic maneuvers such as turning, stopping, and backing up, as well as your ability to navigate through traffic and respond to various driving situations.
Both tests are administered by the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and are required to obtain a driver’s license. You will also need to provide the necessary documentation and meet the eligibility requirements before you can take the tests.
Processing time
- Once you have passed the written knowledge test and the road test, you will receive a temporary driver’s license that is valid for 90 days. Your permanent driver’s license will be mailed to you within that time frame. If you do not receive your permanent driver’s license within 90 days, you should contact the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to inquire about the status of your application.
- It is important to note that the processing time can be affected by any errors or issues with your application, so it is recommended to ensure that all the required documents and information are complete and accurate before submitting your application. You can check the status of your application on the DMV website or by contacting them directly.
Validity
In New York, a driver’s license is valid for up to eight years, depending on the age of the driver and other factors. Here is a breakdown of the validity periods for driver’s licenses in New York:
- If you are 16 or 17 years old, your driver’s license will be valid for two years.
- If you are 18 to 70 years old, your driver’s license will be valid for eight years.
- If you are 71 years old or older, your driver’s license will be valid for five years.
It’s important to note that driver’s licenses can be suspended or revoked if you violate traffic laws or other regulations, such as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Additionally, if you move out of state or have a change in your personal information, such as your name or address, you will need to update your driver’s license information with the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to ensure that it remains valid.