Many DMV customers make easily avoidable mistakes that cause them significant problems, including encounters with law enforcement and impounded vehicles. Because we see customers make these mistakes over and over again , we are issuing this list of the top five DMV mistakes and how to avoid them. 

1. Forgetting to Update Address 
By statute , you must report a change of address to DMV within ten days of moving. That is the case for the address associated with your license, as well as all the addresses associated with each registered vehicle, which may differ. It is not sufficient to only: write your new address on the back of your old license; tell the United States Postal Service; or inform the police officer writing you a ticket. If you fail to keep your address current , you will miss a suspension order and may be charged with operating an unregistered vehicle and/or aggravated unlicensed operation, both misdemeanors. This really happens , but the good news is this is a problem that is easily avoidable. Learn more about how to change the address on your license and registrations [1 ] 

2. Leaving the State Without Notifying DMV 
States communicate with each other , so when you move to another state, be sure to tie up any loose ends regarding your New York State license or registration. That means resolving any unanswered tickets, suspensions or revocations, and surrendering your license plates to NYS when you get to your new home state. A license suspension or revocation here could mean that your new home state will not issue you a license there. Remember , it is important to notify DMV of your new address so that any possible mail correspondence can reach you. Also , turning in your plates is important to avoid an insurance lapse. 

3. Letting Insurance Lapse 
Because we all pay indirectly for crashes involving uninsured motorists , New York State requires every motorist to maintain auto insurance every single day a vehicle is registered. DMV works with insuran

user: My insurance ended so what should i do

assistant: You will need to get insurance or we will suspend your registration and license

user: Don't do that I'll get insurance

assistant: Okay, have you received a letter from the DMV letting you know how to clear things up?

user: I have, that is why I am here to clear that up and change the address on my license and registration

assistant: Okay, we can take care of that

user: Will I still have to turn in anything or can I keep it as I renew my insurance

assistant: If you show proof of insurance and you go ahead with the address change than everything should be fine

user: OKay, well I just logged in and I have insurance and I just need to give you my new address...is that fine

assistant: Good, we now have all the information we need so you should be good to go

assistant: Did you just now get your new insurance coverage?

user: Nope, earlier but it just showed up on my account and payment went through so I should be covered

assistant: Just don't let it happen again or you might lose your license and registration, so just stay insured

user: won't happen again, it was just a mistake on my part

assistant: Okay, well we have your address and it should all be good

user: So just to be sure, if i change address again then I should come in and let you know?

assistant: Yes, and please have your insurance up to date when you do so