There are currently road test cancellations or DMV offices closed for in-person services. See our “Cancellations, Closings and Delays” page for more information.
You can drive in New York State with a valid driver license from another country. You do not need to apply for a New York State driver license unless you become a New York State resident.
To get a New York State driver license, you must pass a written test, complete a 5-hour pre-licensing course and pass a road test.
When you pass your road test, you must give your foreign driver license to the DMV road test examiner. The local DMV office will destroy your foreign driver license.
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If your temporary visitor status gets extended, you must bring it to a DMV office
New York State offers three types of ID documents; standard licenses and IDs, REAL IDs, and Enhanced licenses and IDs. Non citizens are eligible for standard IDs. Non citizens who can provide proof of lawful presence are eligible for REAL IDs. However, only US Citizens are eligible for Enhanced IDs.
As long as your Temporary Visitor status that DMV has on file is not expired, you can renew your license online, through the mail or in an office.
If your Temporary Visitor status has been extended, you must go to a DMV office with your updated paperwork from the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS). We will update our records to show that your Temporary Visitor status has been extended so you can renew your license. Your new license will have your new Temporary Visitor expiration date.
A Temporary Visitor is defined as anyone who is not immigrating to or not permanently residing (living) in the United States. These visitors have US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) documentation that supports their legal status in this country.
If you have DHS documents that identify you as a Temporary Visitor and have a REAL ID; your New York State driver license, permit or non-driver ID card will have:
Please note that your DMV document does not expire on the Temporary Visitor expiration date, nor will your privilege to drive in New York.