When a person different from the registrant (the person the vehicle is or will be registered to) 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

• New York State Driver License
• New York State Learner Permit
• New York State Non-Driver ID Card

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

The registrant must sign the required forms (see register and title a vehicle).  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) (MV-454) 
• Certification of Disposition of Vehicle on Behalf of Absentee Owner (PDF) (MV-456)

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

Bring your completed registration application, additional documents and payment for fees to your local DMV office.

See location, instructions and reservation information for your DMV