When a person different from the registrant 1 applies for vehicle registration at a DMV office they need to show proof of identity for both people. The only acceptable proofs of identity are the most recently issued

• NY State Driver License
• NY State Learner Permit
• NY State Non-Driver ID Card

The person coming to the DMV must show their original NY State Driver License, Learner Permit, or Non-Driver ID card (not a photocopy) and either a photocopy or the original registrant’s NY State Driver License, Learner Permit, or Non-Driver ID.

The registrant must sign the required forms (see register and title a vehicle [1]).  A second party must have a Power of Attorney to sign a form for another person.

If the registrant is a member of the U.S. Military and is absent from New York, the person coming to the DMV can use these forms

• Affirmation for Renewal of Registration for Absentee Owner (PDF) [2] (MV-454) 
• Certification of Disposition of Vehicle on Behalf of Absentee Owner (PDF) [3] (MV-456)

If the second person completes either of the above forms, then the registrant’s NY State Driver License, Permit, or Non-Driver ID and signature aren’t required.

Provide your completed registration application, additional documents and payment for fees to a local DMV office [4].

Office procedures have changed due to COVID-19.

We recommend you conduct your DMV business at the office or by mail in the County where you are a resident.

See instructions and reservation information for your county [5]