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If you want to drive, you gotta have one. So here are some helpful hints on how to get one, how to renew it, or replace it, etc.
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New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
6 Empire State Plaza
Albany, NY 12228
Telephone:
New York City: 212-645-5550, 718-966-6155
516 and 914 area codes: 800-342-5368
Upstate: 800-225-5368
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Vehicle Licensing FAQ:
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How to renew a driver's license
As of 2001, licenses are valid for eight years rather than five, this applies to licenses renewed May 1, 2001 or later. The DMV will send you a renewal notice via the mail 45 to 60 days before your current license expires. The standard license renewal fee is $43, $51 for a class M license for the operation of a motorcycle.
Send both back in the envelope provided with a Visual Acuity Report (form MV-619) completed by an ophthalmologist or optometrist within the last six months. In about two to three weeks later, your new license with your old photo and signature will arrive. If you don’t receive a renewal, you can renew by mail, or by visiting your local DMV office or contact the DMV Call Center.
Renewal in person is pretty easy, since there are several express branches for renewals of licenses and registrations. Your vision can be tested at the DMV at no extra charge.
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Renewing an expired driver's license
You can renew your license without retaking any tests for up to two years. If your license is more than two years expired, then you must apply for a brand new license which requires retaking vision, written, and road tests, as well as the mandatory pre-licensing course.
A permit may only be renewed if you took the written test within the last two years, and the permit hasn’t expired.
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How to replace a lost or stolen driver's license
Download the MV-44 License and Non-driver ID Application Form and the MV-44.1 instructions form). Fill out the form and enclose copies of acceptable proofs of identity that add up to six points. The replacement license costs $8, payable by check or money order to: "Commissioner of Motor Vehicles." Send all paperwork to:
License Production Bureau
P.O. Box 2688, ESP
Albany, NY 12220-0668
Your duplicate license will be delivered by mail.
If your license was stolen, fill out form MV-78 B, available at local police stations.
Your license will be replaced free of charge if the police report shows it was lost due to crime.
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How to get an in-state license when moving from another state or Canada
You have 30 days after becoming a New York State resident to get an in-state license. NYS residency is achieved by one or more of the following conditions:
you pay New York State income taxes your children are enrolled in public school, you maintain a primary residence in New York State earn your primary income in or vote in New York State you are considered a resident.
Exceptions include college students and military personnel from other states who are in the state temporarily.
You will need your out-of-state license, which must have been in effect for at least six months, and must be valid or have expired within the last 12 months. This acts as the first three "points" that go toward proving your identity and residency. In addition, you will need three more, such as a utility bill, a bank statement, a major credit card, or a passport. Fill out the MV-44 form. This form will also register you to vote in New York.
Your out-of-state or Canadian license exempts you from road and written exams, but a basic eye test is mandatory. The cost will be between $38.50 and $47.
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Applying for a non-driver ID
Non-driver photo ID cards are available regardless of your age and can be acquired at any DMV office. The cost is $6. Non-driver photo ID cards contain the same personal identification information, photo, signature, and security features as a regular drivers license. Six points of acceptable proof of identification and age must be provided. Applicants under 16 require parental consent. A holder of a valid New York license or permit cannot apply for or hold a non-driver ID card.
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In-state change of address or name on driver's license
Upon moving you have 10 days to notify the DMV on a change of address within New York State. However, your current license is valid until it expires. To change your address submit form MV-232 and mail it to the address at the top of the second page of the form.
A replacement license can be ordered with your new address for $8. The new license is delivered via the mail in four to six weeks.
For a name change go to the DMV in person with your old license or six points of acceptable proof of identification and age along with the official court documents certifying your name change. The cost is $3 for a replacement license.
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Driving motorcycle
To drive a motorcycle you need a Class M or MJ license or permit.
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Infractions and penalties that result in a suspended or revoked license
The DMV "point system" identifies drivers who commit several traffic violations in a short period of time.
Three speeding violations or 11 or more points accumulated in an 18-month period will result in a mandatory revocation.
Infractions that result in points:
Speeding: between 3 and 11 points
Reckless driving: 5 points
Failing to stop for a school bus: 5 points
Bad brakes: 4 points
Tailgating: 4 points
Improper passing or unsafe lane changing: 3 points
Traffic signal, railroad crossing or right-of-way violation: 3 points
These infractions are not the only basis for the suspension or revocation of a driver’s license. A single DWI violation can result in a mandatory revocation.
Up to 4 points may be reduced, and up to 10% on auto liability insurance premiums can be saved when an approved DMV accident prevention course is taken.
Point reduction cannot prevent a mandatory suspension or revocation or be applied as a "credit" against future points. Click here for more information.
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