New York DMV

In New York, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is a state agency responsible for vehicle titles and registration, plates, driver's licenses, state identification cards, commercial driver's licenses (CDLs), and records. The DMV has offices located throughout the state. The services and hours of operation vary by DMV office, so check your area for an office that provides the services you need before you visit.

To register and title a vehicle for the first time in New York, you must visit your local DMV office. You'll need to bring the original title (or other proof of ownership), insurance card, proof that you paid the sales tax on the vehicle, a completed application, and the registration fee. The registration fee varies depending on the weight of the vehicle and where you live. The DMV will then give you registration documents and you will have 10 days to pass a safety inspection in order to complete the process. In some locations, you can schedule an appointment in advance to expedite the process.

In New York, a standard driver's license is a class D – Operator license for anyone over 18, and a class DJ – Junior Operator for minors. The state offers additional licenses, including a CDL, enhanced driver license (EDL) for travel across the border, a class M – Motorcycle license, or class E – For-hire: Taxi, Livery, Limo driver's license. Drivers who are at least 16 years old can apply for a learner's permit. After completing the driving requirements, drivers can take the road test and receive an interim license until the full license arrives in the mail. New York follows the graduated driver license (GDL) program for teen drivers. The restrictions and stages of this program vary depending on the geographic region of the state.