How to Transfer Your Out-of-State Driver License to New York (2025 Guide)

Do You Need a NY License? Here’s the Rule.

You must transfer your out-of-state license within 30 days of becoming a New York resident. This includes anyone who:

• Rented or bought a home/apartment in NY
• Takes a job in New York
• Enrolls as a student and plans to live in NY long-term
• Moves from NJ/CT but lives primarily in NY

Your out-of-state license must be valid or expired less than 24 months.

What You Need to Bring (Required Documents)

New York uses a point-based proof system. You must bring documentation totaling at least 6 points AND prove:

• Identity
• Date of birth
• Social Security status
• New York residency

Common Document Combinations:

• U.S. Passport – 4 points
• Out-of-state license – 2 points
• Social Security card – 2 points
• Utility bill, lease, or bank statement (NY address) – residency proof

You must also bring your actual out-of-state license. No photocopies.

REAL ID vs Standard vs Enhanced: What You Need to Know

REAL ID (Recommended)

REAL ID is required for domestic flights beginning in May 2025. Most NY residents choose REAL ID when transferring their license.

Enhanced License (Optional)

ENHANCED licenses allow land/sea travel to Canada & Mexico. Costs $30 more than REAL ID.

Standard License (Not recommended)

Not valid for flights starting in 2025. Most residents avoid this version because they’d have to upgrade later anyway.

Important: REAL ID and Enhanced ID require strict document verification, which is why DMV lines and appointment demand are higher than ever.

Do You Need a Written Test or Road Test?

No written test or road test is required if:

• You have a valid U.S. driver license from another state
• Your license has been expired less than 2 years

You may need a test if:

• Your out-of-state license is expired 2+ years
• Your driving privileges were suspended
• You cannot provide your physical license

Why NY DMV Appointments Are So Hard to Get

New York’s DMV system has a backlog from:

• REAL ID deadline approaching (May 2025)
• Staffing shortages
• High demand for permit tests & new licenses
• Only one full-service DMV per borough

Appointments in NYC, Long Island, and Westchester often book out 3–6 weeks in advance. Cancellations appear at random times — and disappear in under 60 seconds.

That’s why many new residents use automated appointment alert tools.

Step-by-Step: How to Transfer Your License to NY

Step 1 — Gather all documents

At minimum: 6 points of ID, your out-of-state license, Social Security proof, and NY residency proof.

Step 2 — Complete the MV-44 form

You can fill it out online and bring the confirmation code to save time.

Step 3 — Make a DMV appointment

Transfers require an appointment at a NYS DMV office (Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, Staten Island, Yonkers, White Plains, Garden City, etc.)

Step 4 — Bring payment

NY license transfer fees typically range $75–$110 depending on class & renewal timing.

Step 5 — Your out-of-state license is surrendered

You cannot keep your old state license — New York is strict about this.

Step 6 — Receive a temporary license

A paper temp license is provided. Your physical card arrives by mail in 2–3 weeks.