New York Driver's License Renewal

It's very easy to overlook the need to renew your New York driver's license. Because it does not expire every year, many people lose track of their renewal date, making renewing a NY license a real pain. You may face fines and penalties if you do not renew your license before it expires and continue to drive. These are the considerations you should make when renewing your New York driver's license.

When Should You Renew?

Your driver's license will most likely expire on your birthday, and you'll get a renewal notice about a month and a half before it does. You can renew your New York license up to a year before it expires and up to two years after it expires if you have a valid license. If you haven't had a valid license in more than two years, you'll need to apply for a New York State license, including a written test, a vision test, a road test, and a required course. Members of the military stationed outside of New York who are on active duty can fill out a form to have their license extended until they return home.

How To Renew in New York?

You will need to pass a new vision test regardless of why or how you renew your license. Visit a vision care professional who is a member of the DMV's Online Vision Registry to take a vision test. Vision providers may charge this service, and you can search for approved providers by zip code on the local DMV website.

Online

Because it allows you to renew your license from the comfort of your own home, online renewal is a popular option for New York drivers. You must renew your license online through the New York State DMV website.
  • Before you can renew, you must pass a vision test administered by an authorized vision tester. If your eye doctor's name is not on the list, they must complete Form MV-619.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm your identity.
  • Make certain that your name and address are correct.
  • Pay the necessary fees with a debit or credit card.
  • Print a temporary paper license that is valid for 60 days. Your license will be mailed to you in a few weeks.

By Mail

If you already have a REAL-ID or intend to keep your standard ID, you can renew by mail. If you've received a renewal notice, fill out the approved form and send the required fees by check or money order. If you haven't received a notice, you can take the following steps:
  • Form MV-44 must be completed.
  • Perform a vision test with an approved eye exam specialist, or have your eye examiner complete Form MV-619.
  • Pay the required fees with a check or money order made payable to the 'Commissioner of Motor Vehicles.'
  • Send the completed form, vision test, and payment to:
NYS Department of Motor Vehicles 207 Genesee Street, Suite 6 Utica, NY 13501-2874

In-Person

If you want to update your photo, license class, or switch from a standard ID to an Enhanced or Real ID, you must renew in person. Here's how to renew your NY driver's license in person:
  • Complete the renewal notice you received
  • Go to your local New York DMV office. Depending on the location, you may need to make a reservation in advance.
  • Take a vision test.
  • Return your old license and pay the fee with a credit/debit card OR with a check/money order made payable to the "Commissioner of Motor Vehicles."

Renewal Fees

Your license class determines the cost of renewing your driver's license.
  • Class D, DJ, and non-CDL Class C licenses can be renewed for between $64.50 and $80.50.
  • Class M and MJ licenses range from $72.50 to $88.50.
  • Class E licenses range from $112.50 to $128.50.
There may be additional fees for certain endorsements if you live in certain counties. For in-person renewals, most major credit and debit cards, as well as personal checks, money orders, and cash are accepted. Mail renewals must be paid for with a check or money order, and online renewals must be paid for with a credit card.