NY New License / First Time Driver
If you are a first-time driver in New York, you definitely have a lot to look forward to and prepare for. There are different rules that apply to those in New York that aren't going to apply to first-time drivers of other states, which means that you should be well aware of what pertains to you in New York specifically, and not some generic information that isn't going to mislead you or have you still wondering just what you have to do. If you still have questions after you receive the information – it isn't really efficient information is it? So get the scoop from 4dmv.com so you can get all the answers you need.Your First Step
What type of first time New York driver are you? There are different licenses offered in the state for different drivers, all depending on what and why you plan to drive.
Class D: Standard driving privileges, basic vehicles, no heavy duty driving or towing, offered to those 18 or older, or 17 with completion certificate from driver training or driver's ed.
Class DJ: After graduating from the learning permit, offered to drivers under 18 with provisional driving privileges, junior license.
CDL: Commercial driving privileges with operating privileges of all standard vehicles as well.
Motorcycle License: Provides appropriate licensing for operation of qualified New York motor bike.
Class E: Taxi and Livery license used for vehicles that are used for-hire with capacity up to 14 passengers.
Driver Training Options and Requirements
There are options and requirements when it comes to New York driver training, which you should fully understand before determining which route is essential to get a new license in New York. While you have different training options between driver's ed and pre-licensing training, you are required to complete one course for the appropriate certificate required for scheduling your road test.
Under 18: Driver's Ed or New York approved pre-licensing course required. Certification of 50 supervised training hours will be required before you can obtain your license if you are under 17.
18 and Over: Driver's Ed class or pre-licensing course required, certificate of completion required to schedule your road test as well.
There are also other sources for preparation that can even help prepare you and help you when you are attending training courses. The New York DMV offers an array of driving manuals for each type of driver in New York, offering a full list of each offered with PDF and web versions offered.
If you would like to get some practice before you take your tests, you can use various resources online that will offer great options for pretesting that will build your confidence and preparation much further than anything else. Using the study guides offered will ensure that you are able to get through the most difficult part of getting your license without a hitch.
Find the Right Vehicle
In order to even schedule your driver's exam, you want to be well aware of what vehicle you will be using for the test. In order to even take the test, you must first have access to a vehicle that is registered in New York which has a current insurance policy within which you are covered. You can use a family member's vehicle if they provide the adequate permission and documents, and you are insured in the policy.
If you prefer, however, you could always find a new vehicle before getting started. In fact, road exams are usually scheduled from 3 to 6 months before the date, so you have a bit of time to prepare. You have different options for purchasing a vehicle in New York these days, offering the perfect choice no matter what your budget is.
** Remember to always access the vehicle history report before purchasing a used car. Also, get a good idea of the New York Lemon Law before entering any type of agreement, whether purchasing from a dealership or private seller.
Auto insurance is a must-have, and you must have it, whether it's your vehicle or not. Just any policy won't do either. You must have the state-specified minimum standard liability insurance, and you must be covered on the policy – it can't be stressed enough! It is against the law to drive a vehicle that has a policy you are not included in as the liabilities will not be covered by the insurance company in the event of damages.
Ready to Test?
The testing day is so important and exciting, but can be a whirlwind of processes you must be aware of and ready for.
- Form MV-44, offered online for downloading, must be completed and submitted. It is the application for your license.
- Your identity and birth date must be proven, check out Proof of Identity, if you aren't sure what is acceptable. Your guardians can complete Form MV-45, available online, if you don't have appropriate identification.
- Your Social Security number must be verified so bring the appropriate Social Security card or document stating your social security or a statement from the Social Security Administration stating that you cannot obtain your number.
- You will take a vision exam administered by the DMV office, which determines your ability to properly view the street and all that you encounter on the roadway.
- If you don't have the appropriate Form MV-285, certificate of completion of driver's training, you will be required to complete the written exam.
- View Driver Licence fees to determine the fee you will pay for your license, which will include the learner's permit and license if applicable. The fee will be up to $115 depending on your age.
The Big Test: New York Road Exam
Once you have satisfied every other requirement, the next step is your road exam which is mandatory to obtain your first-time license in New York. To save the most time, you want to start by setting an appointment – but remember there will be a wait.
**Top Tip! If you want to correlate the processes together (written exam, if applicable, and driver's exam, schedule in advance. Try to schedule at least 3 months ahead.
You can schedule your appointment by calling the DMV at 1-518-402-2100 or visiting the website at Road Test Appointment. To find the right office to take the exam, visit DMV Telephone Call Centers.
Present the appropriate certification of completion of your driver's training course, and Form MV-262 if applicable.
If you pass, you get to walk away with your interim license, junior license, which you will hold for at least 90 days with your learner's permit. You will get your license by mail within that 90 day period, but remember to call the DMV if you are worried about its status.
If you don't pass, you can take the test again once for no charge, after which you will have to pay for 2 more tests at a cost of $10 each time you try.