How to get your New York driver's license
Every step from learner permit to license, with what to bring on test day. Updated for 2026. Buy a package Book a lesson To get a New York driver's license you need a learner permit, the 5-hour pre-licensing course, enough supervised practice, and a passed road test. Here's each step.
The 5 steps
- Get your learner permit. Pass the written knowledge test at the DMV.
- Complete the 5-hour pre-licensing course. You receive the MV-278 certificate, valid for one year. Take ours for $60 .
- Practice. Under 18: at least 50 supervised hours, including 15 after sunset, recorded on form MV-262. Hours with a driving school instructor count.
- Schedule your road test online at dmv.ny.govonce your certificate is valid. Our permit packages include the appointment.
- Pass your road test and receive an interim license from the examiner.
What to bring to your road test
- Your learner permit
- Your original MV-278 or MV-285 certificate. Copies are not accepted.
- Under 18: the completed MV-262, signed by a parent or guardian
- Glasses or contacts if your permit requires them
- A car that meets DMV rules, or our road test car
Frequently asked questions
Q: Do I need the 5-hour course before my road test? A: Yes. You need a valid MV-278 certificate from the 5-hour pre-licensing course, or an MV-285 from driver education, to schedule your road test. Q: How long is the 5-hour certificate valid? A: One year from the date it is issued. Q: How many practice hours do I need? A: Junior permit holders need at least 50 supervised hours, including 15 after sunset, recorded on form MV-262. Drivers 18 and older have no legal minimum. Q: How long must I hold my permit before the road test? A: Junior permit holders must wait at least six months. Q: What do I bring to the road test? A: Your learner permit, your original MV-278 or MV-285 (copies are not accepted), the MV-262 if you are under 18, glasses if required, and a car that meets DMV rules. Q: Can I use a driving school car for my road test? A: Yes. Priannag's car for the road test is $130 or included in any learner permit package. Q: What happens if I fail my road test? A: You can schedule another test. Use extra lessons to work on what the examiner marked. Sources: NY DMV pre-licensing requirements · NY DMV road test . Always confirm current rules on dmv.ny.gov.
Book your lessons
- Online booking, approved by our office
- Lessons and courses 6 days a week
- Weekend classes for busy people
- Complimentary home pick-up and drop-off (restrictions may apply)
- Flexibility, reliability and patience