How to Get Your Learner Permit in New York State
You must be at least 16 years old.
You must be able to prove identity, date of birth, and residency.
https://dmv.ny.gov/learner-permit
https://dmv.ny.gov/brochure/mv21.pdf
Step 2: Study the Driver’s Manual
Download or read the NYS Driver’s Manual here:
https://dmv.ny.gov/driver-license/drivers-manual-practice-tests
Focus on:
Road signs
Rules of the road
Safety and defensive driving
Name and date of birth
Social Security status:
SSN card (if you have one)
If you’re not eligible for a Social Security number, get a letter of ineligibility from the SSA.
Proof of legal presence (for non-citizens):
Passport, visa, I-94, green card, etc.
Proof of New York State address
Utility bill, lease, bank statement, school record, etc.
Use the NYS DMV Document Guide to create a custom checklist.
Make an appointment online at https://dmv.ny.gov
Closest offices: Clifton Park, Troy, Albany, Saratoga Springs
Bring all required documents.
Take the vision test (you can also submit results from an outside provider).
Take the written test:
20 multiple-choice questions
You must get at least 14 correct, including 2 road sign questions
Pay the fee (varies by age and county, usually between $80–$108).
If you pass the test, you will be issued a Class D Learner Permit.
You can now legally practice driving with a supervising driver age 21+.
You can also take the learner permit test online from home (if eligible). Learn more: https://dmv.ny.gov/driver-license/learner-permits
For non-citizens or those using foreign documents, plan extra time for document verification.
You must drive with a supervising driver at least 21 years old.
That person must have a valid license for the same type of vehicle (e.g., Class D for a car).
The supervising driver must sit in the front passenger seat.
You cannot drive by yourself at any time — not even to school or work.
Driving without supervision can result in fines, license suspension, or delay in getting your full license.
For drivers under age 18 with a Class DJ permit:
In Saratoga County (Upstate NY):
You may drive only between 5:00 AM and 9:00 PM, with a supervising adult.
After 9:00 PM, you may only drive:
To/from work or a school course
With your parent or guardian in the front seat
You can only have one non-family passenger under 21 unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.
All passengers must wear seat belts, no matter their age.
Handheld electronic devices are strictly banned while driving — no texting, calling, or using apps.
This applies even when stopped at lights or in traffic.
Drivers under 21 are subject to zero tolerance laws:
BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) of 0.02% or higher is illegal.
Driving under the influence will immediately suspend your permit/license and may involve criminal charges.
Before taking the road test, you must complete at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including:
15 hours at night
10 hours in moderate to heavy traffic
Your parent or guardian must certify this on the MV-262 form before your road test.
You must follow all posted signs, speed limits, and right-of-way rules.
You are subject to the same penalties as licensed drivers (tickets, points, etc.).
Final Notes:
A learner permit is not a license — it’s only for practice.
After you complete your practice hours and pre-licensing course, you can schedule your road test.
Until you pass your road test, all learner restrictions stay in place.