Get a driver license[1] 
New York State residents age 16 or over can apply for a New York driver license. 

Step 1: Determine what license class and type you need 
Class : most people get a class D - Operator if 18 or older or a DJ - Junior Operator if under 18. See instructions to get a class A , B , C- commercial license CDL [2 ] class M - motorcycle license [3 ] class E - taxi or limousine livery license [4 ] Type : DMV offers 3 types of licenses. Learn about Enhanced, REAL ID and Standard documents [5]. 

Step 2: Get a learner permit 
Before you can get a license , you must apply for a learner permitat DMV office and take the written test. You can prepare by reading the New York State Driver's Manual and taking practice tests. Learn how to get a learner permit [6]. 

Step 3: Practice driving and take a pre-licensing course 
Once you have a learner permit , you must have supervised driving practice and you must take a pre - licensing course or a driver education course before you take your road test. Learn how to find a pre - licensing course and prepare for your road test [7]. 

Step 4: Pass a road test 
If you pass your test , the examiner will give you an interim license that allows you to drive. Keep the interim license with your photo learner permit until your new license arrives in the mail in about 2 weeks. See how to schedule and take a road test [8]. 

Fees 
Fees depend on what you are applying for, your age, and where you live. Use the fee chart to estimate your fee [9]. 

Replace, renew, restore, or exchange 


Replace 
See how to replace a license that was lost, stolen or destroyed [10]. 

Renew 
See how to renew your license [11]. 

Restore 
Learn how to restore your driving privilege and reapply for your license after a revocation [12]. 

Exchange out-of-state license 
If you are from another state , see how to exchange your out - of - state driver license [13]. If you are coming here from another country overseas , see information about visiting 

user: Hello there, I have some questions about obtaining a driver license.

assistant: Of course. New York State residents age 16 or over can apply for a New York driver license. 

user: What will happen after I pass my road test?

assistant: Have you passed your road test?

user: No, not yet.

user: Well, can you still tell me what happens after I pass it, please?

assistant: After passing the road test the examiner will give you an interim license that allows you to drive. Keep the interim license with your photo learner permit until your new license arrives in the mail in about 2 weeks.

user: Can I prove my residence by showing that I lived in an apartment in NY for a year?

assistant: Yes. A police officer can use this as evidence to issue a traffic ticket if you drive in New York State without a New York State driver license or vehicle registration. A judge considers the law and the evidence of your intent and decides if you are a resident of New York State.

user: And what do I have to do before I can get a license?

assistant: Before you can get a license, you must apply for a learner permitat DMV office and take the written test. You can prepare by reading the New York State Drivers Manual and taking practice tests.