How to Get Your Driver's License in New York
Last verified: 2026-03
Here is how to get your driver's license in New York. New York uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 17.
GDL Stages in New York
Learner's Permit
Requirements
- Pass written knowledge test
- Pass vision screening
- Parental consent if under 18
Restrictions
- Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older
Junior License
Requirements
- Hold learner's permit for at least 6 months
- Complete driver education or 50 hours supervised driving
- Pass road skills test
Restrictions
- No driving between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. in some areas (varies by region)
- No more than 1 passenger under 21 unless supervised
Full Unrestricted License
Requirements
- Hold junior license with clean record
- Turn 17 (restrictions phase out between 17 and 18)
Restricted License Rules
- In New York City and some suburban counties, junior drivers cannot drive between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. In upstate New York, the curfew is typically later.
- No more than 1 passenger under 21 is allowed unless a licensed adult 21+ is in the front seat.
How restrictions lift: Most restrictions lift at age 17 with a clean record. Some region-specific restrictions remain until 18.
Road Test Overview
What Is Tested
- Vehicle control
- Turning and lane changes
- Parking
- Obeying traffic signals and signs
- Speed management
- Yielding right of way
Adult Licensing Pathway
If you are 18 or older, you do not need to complete the full GDL process. Drivers 18 and older receive a full license upon passing the road test and are not subject to junior license restrictions.
New York-Specific Information
New York is unusual in that its nighttime curfew varies by geographic region. In New York City and Long Island, the curfew is 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., while in upstate areas it may not start until later. This location-based system is unique among U.S. states.
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be at least 17 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in New York.
New York uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Learner's Permit, Junior License, Full Unrestricted License.
- In New York City and some suburban counties, junior drivers cannot drive between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. In upstate New York, the curfew is typically later.
- No more than 1 passenger under 21 is allowed unless a licensed adult 21+ is in the front seat.
Adults age 18 and older in New York can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. Drivers 18 and older receive a full license upon passing the road test and are not subject to junior license restrictions.
Need your permit first?
Start with the learner's permit before your full license.
New York learner's permit guideCheck drivers ed requirements
Find out if drivers ed is required in New York.
New York drivers ed requirementsPrefer to learn online?
Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.
View Online CoursesThis information is based on New York State Department of Motor Vehicles guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official New York State Department of Motor Vehicles website for the most current information.