Getting a permit is the first step to get your driver license. You must be 16 or older and must apply in person at a DMV office.

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 for your county [1]

Get your permit

When you apply for a permit, you will need to provide proof of identification and take a written test. 
[3]

What you need to apply

• Steps for getting a driver learner permit [4]
• Steps for getting a motorcycle permit [5]
• Vision requirements [6]
• Proofs of identification [7]
• Fees [8]
• DMV office locations [3]

Prepare for written test

• Driver's Manual & practice tests [9]

Restrictions

• Permit restrictions [10]
• Graduated License Law [11] (for drivers under age 18)

Take road test to get your driver license

After you get your permit, you can drive with certain restrictions [10].

• Driver training/pre-licensing course [12]
• Schedule, cancel, or reschedule a road test [13]

Existing permit holders

• Replace permit [14]
• Change address [15]
• Check driving status [16]
• Check permit mailing status [17]
• Renew permit [18]

Resources

• Find a driving school [19]
• Younger driver resources [20]
• Older driver resources [21]
• Motorcycle Safety Awareness Training [22]
• Driver medical conditions [23]
• Military & Veteran resources [24]
• [24]NY State Address Confidentiality Program for victims of domestic violence, stalking, sexual offense and/or human trafficking [25]
• NY State Adventure license/permit [26]
• Information about Enhanced, REAL ID and Standard permits [27]
• If a family member has died [28]
• Resources for non US citizens [29]