Holding a license comes with ongoing duties: tell DMV when you move, renew on time, and, if you've just moved to New York, switch to a New York license quickly. REAL ID rules also affect how you renew.
Notify DMV of an address change (Form MV-232 by mail, or online)
Handbook p. 17 ↗Know the rule
After you move, also write the new address in the space on the back of your license.
Handbook p. 17 ↗Before expiration, when DMV mails a renewal notice to your current address
Handbook p. 17 ↗Know the rule
You are responsible for knowing when your license expires. No notice? Apply at a motor vehicle office. You can renew up to one year before the printed expiration date.
Handbook p. 17 ↗Know the rule
Since May 3, 2023, you need a REAL ID, Enhanced license, valid U.S. passport or other federally accepted ID to board domestic flights or enter military bases and certain federal facilities.
Handbook p. 17 ↗A REAL ID is issued only at a DMV office. Bring originals or certified copies of:
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Social Security number, or of Social Security number ineligibility
- Proof of your date of birth
- Proof of U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residency or temporary lawful status
- Two proofs of NYS residence, e.g., utility bill or mortgage statement (no P.O. Box)
Know the rule
Not getting REAL ID or Enhanced? You can likely renew by mail or online, but cards issued after October 30, 2017 are marked "Not for Federal Purposes." Mail or online renewal needs an eye test passed within the past six months (or one year, per a health professional): Eye Test Report MV-619.
Handbook p. 17 ↗Know the rule
Entering military service: your license is automatically extended through active service and for six months after discharge. Notify DMV within 60 days of entering, on form MV-75.
Handbook p. 18 ↗After becoming a NY resident, to apply for a NY license and turn in your old one
Handbook p. 18 ↗Know the rule
New residents from a U.S. state, territory or possession, or a Canadian province: turn in your license, prove name and date of birth, give your SSN and pass the vision test. If your license was valid under six months or expired more than one year ago, also pass the written and road tests and take the safe driving course.
Handbook p. 18 ↗Know the rule
New residents licensed in a country other than Canada must pass the vision, written and road tests and complete the safe driving course. The foreign license goes to the examiner and is destroyed unless you ask in writing that DMV hold it.
Handbook p. 18 ↗Know the rule
Under 18 with an out-of-state permit or junior license: obey New York's restrictions and your home state's. Under 16, you cannot drive in New York even with an out-of-state license.
Handbook p. 18 ↗Put it into practice
You move from Ohio with a license issued four months ago. Because it has been valid less than six months, you must pass the vision, written and road tests and complete the safe driving course, and you should apply within 30 days of becoming a resident.