NEW DRIVERS

If you've never owned a drivers license you will be required, regardless of age, to take a written test and a road test. The only exception to this is if you provide proof of completing a state-approved driver education course, you will not be required to to take the written test. Otherwise, prepare for both exams. 

RECENTLY RELOCATED TO NEW YORK WITH AN EXISTING DRIVER LICENSE

New York will recognize a valid license from any other state, US territory or Canadian province. If you decide to become a NY resident, you'll have 30 days to exchange your license for a New York drivers license without having to take a drivers license test. 

WRITTEN TEST

Study New York's driver manual to prepare for the written test. All of the questions will be based on information found in the manual, including road sign identification, turning through intersections and parking. You can snatch a manual, for free, from any DMV office or by downloading a copy from the DMV's Web site.

After studying the manual you'll next want to take several practice tests. These can be found at the end of each chapter of the driver manual, or online from multiple Web sites. 

Once you're test-ready, visit any DMV office to take the exam. No appointment necessary. Be sure to have cash, check or credit card to pay the license fee, as well as all needed documents.

ROAD TEST

You must make a road test appointment. No walk-ins will be accepted. You can reserve a test date online through the DMV's Web site or by calling (518) 402-2100. Be sure to bring all needed documents, as well as a vehicle in good working shape with proof of insurance and registration.