1. Apply for a learner permit. Fill out Form MV 44 and Pay the application fee and the driver’s license fee. There is one application form for both your first learner permit and your first driver's license. This single payment depends on your age at the application date: 18½ to 21: $47.50 - $50.00; 21 and older: $42.50 - $47.50



2. Pass the vision test. Take a vision test at the DMV office, or bring a valid form MV-619 (Eye Test Report) completed by an eye-care professional.



3. Pass the written test. No appointment is needed. You can prepare for the written test by studying the Driver's Manual and Study Guide. There is no limit on the number of times you can attempt to pass the test without any additional fees.



NOTE: After passing the writtent test, you will receive a learner's permit. This permit will allow you to drive only when a supervising driver present in the car with you. The supervising driver must be age 21 or over and must have a valid driver's license to operate the vehicle that you drive.


4. The next step is to take the driver education course or a DMV-approved pre-licensing course. You must attend a mandatory pre-licensing course or complete a high school or college driver education course. You can look in the telephone directory under "Driving Instruction". These courses generally cost about $45.



NOTE: Do not confuse the 5-hour pre-licensing course (required) with the 6-hour defense driving course (NOT required for the purpose of obtaining a driver’s license).


5. After you completed your driver education course, make an appointment for a road test. Use your driver education certificate or pre-licensing course certificate to make an appointment by phone or at http://www.nysdmv.com/rtphone.htm



NOTE: Please make sure that the vehicle that you will be using for the road test satisfies certain safety requirements such as brake lights, blinkers, etc. You may not be allowed to take the road test if your vehicle does not satisfy these safety requirements.

You may bring a rented car or your friend’s car for the road test. The car must have a valid registration and a valid state inspection and you must show the driver education certificate to the road test examiner on the day of your road test.

Make sure you don’t show up to the road test alone. Remember that you are not allowed to drive alone if not in a possession of a valid driver’s license. So bring a friend! If you did not pass, you can schedule another road test. If you do not pass the second road test, you must pay a $10 fee to take two more road tests.

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