Most positions in the DMV are filled through competitive exams. Exams are advertised in three formats to help potential applicants decide which ones they should apply for

• open to state employees only
• open to all qualified individuals
• continuous recruitment

Exams are open to anyone who meets the minimum qualifications indicated on the exam announcements, and nearly all exams require a non-refundable application processing fee. Most exams open to the public are held approximately every four years. Applications for Continuous Recruitment Exams are accepted continuously, with no application deadline.

You may apply for most exams online or by using the paper application (form NYS-APP) (PDF). See How to Apply on the exam announcement(s).

Note: To fulfill its responsibility to safeguard New York State assets and to maintain the public confidence, New York State DMV conducts a fingerprint background check of all new employees.

Department of Civil Service Exam Announcements

• The New York State Department of Civil Service Web site State Exams page.
• Sign up for Department of Civil Service e-mail notifications to receive automatic emails of newly issued exam announcements.
• Civil Service Outreach Offices (by mail or in person).  
• Exam announcements are also posted in public buildings such as the New York State Department of Labor Community Service Centers, libraries, and colleges.

State agencies use the eligible lists that result from competitive exams to hire people. Therefore, you cannot apply for most positions at the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles unless you are sent a canvass letter that results from your name appearing on an eligible list. 

For jobs open to the public, see StateJobsNY.

The Governor's Program to Hire an Individual or a Veteran With a Disability Looking for Employment with New York State Government consist of two specialized programs. These programs are coordinated efforts to place individuals with disabilities in entry-level State jobs. No initial written or oral examinations are required for the appointment. You must, however, submit a formal application and a medical evaluation may be necessary for program certification.

New York State Civil Service Law, Section 55-b (Workers With Disabilities Looking for Employment with Local Government) authorizes the New York State Civil Service Commission to designate up to 1,200 positions in the non-competitive class to be filled by qualified people with disabilities. Additionally, Section 55-c of the law authorizes the designation of up to 500 positions in the non-competitive class to be filled by qualified wartime veterans with disabilities.

DMV is an equal opportunity employer and provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, genetics, or any other protected category under the state and federal law. In addition to federal law requirements, DMV complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.