Transferring Out-of-State Driver's License in New York

This guide will teach you everything you need to know about transferring your out-of-state driver's license to a New York driver's license. The process will be simple as long as you have a valid driver's license. Make sure to read the entire article to avoid missing any important steps.

Requirements

You must transfer your driver's license within 30 days of relocating to the state. The NYS Vehicle and Traffic Law consider you a resident if you live in a house, apartment, room, or similar adobes for 90 days and intend to make it your fixed and permanent home. The following documents are required:
  • Completed Application for Driver License or Non-Driver ID Card (Form MV-44)
  • Proof of identity and birth date, following NYS point system for identification (NYS identification point system)
  • Social Security card OR letter of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration plus completed I-94 Form
  • Out-of-state driver's license
  • Payment for applicable fees

Eligibility

Transferring is not permitted if your license falls into one or more of the following categories:
  • Suspended or nullified
  • Stolen or lost, in which case you must apply for a replacement photo of your previous state's driver's license.
  • A hardship driver's license or an employment-only driver's license, in which case you must apply for a new one
  • If it is non-renewable or non-transferable, you must apply for a new one.

Studying In New York?

If you are a student from another state or country attending school in New York, you are not considered a resident and will not be required to transfer your current driver's license.

Immigrants?

You can drive if you have a valid driver's license from another country and do not need to apply for a new one. If you move to New York State, you must apply for a new license and surrender your foreign credentials. You must also pass a written exam, complete a pre-licensing course, and pass a road test.

How To Transfer An Out-of-State Driver's License to New York

Step 1: Schedule An Appointment

First and foremost, you should make an appointment with the New York DMV to obtain your new license. We recommend scheduling your appointment one to two weeks in advance. You can walk into your local DMV and complete your license transfer on the same day, but expect long lines. If you go this route, be sure to read our guide on the best times to visit the DMV.

Step 2: Bring The Required Documents

Preparing all necessary documents ahead of time will help you avoid unnecessary delays and ensure that your license transfer goes as smoothly as possible. The DMV will require the following documents on the day of your visit.

Proof of Identity

  • Passport or Passport Card from the United States
  • A birth certificate issued by a state or local government in the United States
  • Naturalization or Citizenship Certificate

Valid Out-of-State Driver's License

  • You must include a photograph of yourself.
  • Valid for less than 24 months or has not yet expired
  • Issued at least six months before applying for a New York driver's license

Fees for License Transfers

  • The fee ranges between $65 and $75 and can be paid in cash, check, or credit/debit card.

Step 3: Pass The Vision Test

A vision test will be required of you. Fortunately, this is the only test required when transferring your license. This test is available at the New York DMV and is administered by trained personnel. You may also bring a copy of your eye test results (MV-619). Only licensed and qualified physicians, physician assistants, nurses, opticians, or supervised staff can complete this report. A minimum test score of 20/40 in one or both eyes, with or without corrective lenses, is required.

Step 4: Get Your License

You will be able to transfer your driver's license to New York if the Department of Motor Vehicles accepts your documents, vision test results, and fees. Congratulations! While the department creates your permanent license card, you will be issued a temporary license. This temporary document is fully valid and will allow you to drive around New York legally. It can also be used as a form of identification. Your new license should be mailed to the address you provided at the DMV office within two weeks. It is valid for five years. That's all there is to it when it comes to transferring your out-of-state driver's license to New York. We hope this guide has been helpful and that you are now at ease with the process.