How Do I Change My New York Driver's License Class?

You cannot change the class of your driver’s license when you renew online. If you currently have a standard (class D) driver’s license and you want to upgrade it to an Enhanced license, REAL ID, or another class of license (Class A, B, C, E, or M) you must apply in person at the DMV and submit the required paperwork.

What if I want to drive a motorcycle or other type of vehicle?

One of the most common reasons people want to change their license class is to be able to drive motorcycles. For example, you might have a standard (Class D) license and also want to be able to drive motorcycles. Class D licenses allow you to operate passenger cars and trucks that weigh 26,000 pounds or less, tow other vehicles weighing up to 10,000 pounds, and operate mopeds. This class of driver’s license does not allow you to operate a motorcycle. In this situation, you would want to change your license from a Class D to a Class DM, which would allow you to operate both a standard vehicle and a motorcycle.

What if I want a commercial driver’s license?

A commercial license is required to operate heavy vehicles. If you currently have a Class D driver’s license and you want to upgrade to a commercial license (Class A, B, C) you must visit a DMV with the required paperwork. Learn more about the paperwork required to apply for a commercial driver’s license here.

Please note that your vision test results will still apply whether you’re able to renew online or not. Most people who have to visit the DMV choose to have their eye exam done there, but regardless of how you complete your renewal, your online vision test results will still be valid and will automatically be submitted to the DMV for you.