How Do I Change An Out-of-state Driver’s License To A NY Driver’s License?

If you recently moved to New York, you’ll need to exchange your out-of-state license within 30 days. You cannot exchange an out-of-state license online. For this, you will need to visit a DMV location to provide the required paperwork. Once processed, your New York driver’s license will be mailed to you in approximately two weeks. In the meantime, the DMV will provide a non-photo document that you can use for ID until your new one arrives.

Making an Appointment With the DMV

You can make a reservation for your in-person visit for a faster appointment but some New York DMV locations accept walk-ins without a previous reservation. You can make an appointment and find the nearest DMV office to you at this website.

Applying for a New Driver’s License

Your current out-of-state license must be valid or have expired less than two years ago and you must have had it for at least six months. If you have a license that’s newer than six months, you’ll have to apply for a new license in New York and pass a road test. Visit this website to learn how to apply for a new license.

It’s important to know that you cannot exchange an out-of-state license if it’s suspended or revoked. If your license is lost or stolen you must request a replacement from the previous state.

The New York DMV requires a vision test to exchange an out-of-state driver’s license and obtain a New York one. You can take the vision test on the day of your appointment at the DMV or you can choose to have it done online before your in-person visit. If you decide to take the vision test online with Cleared to Drive we will email you an MV-619 form (Vision Test Results form) that you can bring to your DMV appointment.