How to Buy a Driving License in New York
A driving license is a document issued by the government that permits you to drive legally. It also serves as a form if identification.
New York offers a wide range of driver's license classes, tailored to different requirements for driving and types of vehicles. Understanding these classes can help you obtain your license.
How to Purchase a New York Driver's License
For many new drivers, getting their license is a crucial milestone on the road to independence. It opens up numerous possibilities for leisure and career which aren't easily accessible via public transportation. The process of getting the driver's license for New York State can be difficult for those who aren't familiar of the procedures involved, but it is well at the fingertips of anyone who wants to achieve it. This step-by-step guide will guide you through the entire process from obtaining a permit, to scheduling an exam on the road and getting your photo-license.
The first step in the New York State licensing process is to obtain an Operator Permit Class D. This driver's license is a provisional one that allows you to practice under the supervision of a licensed driver. You must submit a MV-44 Application, proof of identity and Social Security Number (SSN) and take a vision test to qualify for the Class D Driver's Permit.
Once you receive your permit, you must record at least fifty hours of monitored driving. This includes 15 hours of driving at night and 10 hours of driving in light traffic. Once you've logged the required amount of time in the classroom and successfully completed your written exam you can book your road test either online or over the phone. The time required for road tests is dependent on the location and time of the year. It's best to book your test in advance.
You will receive your full Driver's License via mail once you've passed the road test and satisfied all other requirements. There are a variety of types of licenses available in New York, so be sure to study the Driver's Manual carefully to understand the restrictions that will apply to your specific license. The Senior License is an excellent option for drivers aged 18 and older. It is a great way to get rid of many of the restrictions junior license holders are required to adhere to such as the restrictions on driving at nights and the number of passengers you can carry.
Learner's Permit
The learner's permit is the initial step for teens and new drivers to be licensed. Also called a provisional license or driver's learner's permit, this license is a prerequisite (along with driver's education and the road test) to obtain a full license.
To get your learner's permit you must meet the following basic eligibility requirements: at least 16 years old or have a parent's consent if under 18. Pass an eye test. Answer correctly 14 of 20 questions about traffic laws and signs on the written test.
You can register for the written exam on the DMV's website, or contact the office in your area directly. The cost of the written exam is based on the age of your applicant. You can pay for the exam with cash, personal check or credit card. It's a good idea prepare in advance by studying the New York State Driver's Manual and using tests that you can practice with. A lot of DMV offices let you make reservations for your appointment; you can find out if yours does here.
Once you've passed the written test as well as the vision test, you'll receive your learner's license. Be aware that, when you get your permit you must be in the company of a licensed driver who's at least 21 when driving. You should practice driving frequently and keep a track of the date, duration and nature of your driving.
It's a great idea to take a five-hour pre-licensing class in addition to practicing. These courses are available through high schools and private driving companies, or through your high school, and they assist you in preparing for the knowledge test by providing you with information on the topic. After review is completed you will need to bring a certificate of completion to the DMV to complete the process to obtain your driver's permit. Make sure to schedule your next appointment with the DMV prior to when your learner's permit expires, so that you can start working towards a full driver's license. If you successfully complete the course prior to the date your permit expires you may be eligible to receive a fee waiver. If you lose your permit you must apply for a new one at the DMV. You will also have to pay the fee again.
Intermediate License
After a certain amount of time, having logged hours of driving, and/or a successful driver's education course, teens may be eligible to replace their learner permit with an intermediate license. This kind of license is known as a provisional one. It allows the driver to travel on his own but it is restricted to nighttime driving, the number of passengers, and the age of the passengers. Depending on state law, the driver's license may be required to carry an occupant-restraint device and both the driver and passengers are required to wear seat belts.
The validity of the license may differ from state to another, but it is usually required that you hold an intermediate driver's license for a minimum of one year. You must also complete a driver education course and satisfy all other requirements of the state's graduated license (GDL).
A Parent/Guardian Written Consent form must be filled out and submitted in person or by mail along with the application. The parent or guardian must also sign the waiver of the driver's hour restriction on the back of the licence.
If the driver is cited with a traffic ticket or causes an accident in the interim period, it hinders their ability to upgrade to a higher-level license. If the driver is found to be in violation of the restrictions, then they'll have to keep their intermediate license for another six months.
Drivers with an intermediate license must also be free from alcohol and drugs when operating a vehicle. They cannot have more than one non-family member in the vehicle. The term "immediate family" is typically defined as siblings, parents, brothers and sisters, stepbrothers and stepsisters, and foster or adopted children who live within the same household.