In New York state, you can apply for a driver's license once you turn 16. You must prove your identity and age by providing a Social Security card and other documents, such as a passport or a certificate of citizenship. If you're under 21 and don't have enough documentation, your parent can sign a statement of identity as evidence you're entitled to drive.
If you've never had a driver's license, you must apply for a permit at your local New York DMV office. Qualifying for a permit requires taking an eye test. The minimum vision is 20/40. If you can't achieve this without glasses, you can drive, but with a restriction placed on your license. The state can also limit your license to daylight driving only if you have problems with night vision.
You have to score at least 14 on the DMV's written test of 20 multiple choice questions. Four of the questions are about street-sign meanings, and you have to answer at least two of these right. For a motorcycle license, you must pass three out of five questions specifically related to motorcycles. If you fail the test, you can take the test again for no additional cost. Once you pass and pay your DMV fees, you receive your learner's permit (see Resources).
No matter what age you are, a learner's permit won't let you drive without an adult, licensed driver to supervise. The next step is passing a five-hour prelicensing course or a driver's ed class, then the state road test. If you're under 18, you must wait six months after getting your learner's permit to take the test. You must also complete 50 hours of supervised driving practice. You then take the road test, which covers skills such as braking, changing gears, obeying traffic signs and signals, and dealing with the unexpected.
If you move to New York state when you're already a licensed driver, you need to apply for a state license within 30 days. This is a much simpler process. As long as you have a valid driver's license with your photo, you can usually exchange it for a New York license. An expired license is fine as long as it's not more than two years old. The DMV still wants to see your Social Security card and other proofs of identity.
