Before you can obtain a license: You must,

• Obtain a class D learner permit prior to obtaining your driver license.
• Be 16 years of age or older.
• Study the NY State Driver’s Manual to take the written permit test.
• Apply for your permit in person at any DMV office.
• Have the documents and proofs of identification you need before visiting any DMV office.
• Get at least 14 out of the 20 multiple-choice questions correct.
• Pay for your permit in person at any DMV office. (estimated fee)
• Wait about two weeks to receive your permit in the mail.

Once you have a learner permit: You must,

• Obey the learner permit restrictions  on where and when you may drive.
• Complete a 5-hour Pre-licensing Course.
• Obtain supervised driving practice and schedule your road test appointment.
• If you are under age 18, you must wait six months from the date you received your learner permit to schedule and take a road test.

NOTE:

• Regardless of age, if you have a learner permit, you may not drive unless you are accompanied by a driver age 21 or older who has a valid license for the vehicle you are driving.

Links:
- Important Information about learner’s permits
- Driver’s Manual (Eng.)
- Application for permit, driver license, or non-driver ID card, form #MV-44
- Driver’s Manual (Esp.)
- Solicitud de permiso, licencia de conducir, o tarjeta de identificación, fomulario #MV-4(Esp.)
- Needed documents and proofs of identification