The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NYSDMV) has a variety of information available to help you prepare for the written and behind-the-wheel tests that are required before you can apply for a driver’s license in New York. You will need to pass both parts of the exam, but it is possible to take them separately. This guide provides an overview of what you should know about each part of the exam.
Table of Contents
The Written Test:
A. Read this section carefully because you must answer all questions correctly to receive credit for passing the test.
The NYSDMV requires that applicants read and understand the following sections of the Driver Manual. These sections include:
• Chapter 1 – Introduction to Driving
• Chapter 2 – Rules of the Road
• Chapter 3 – Traffic Signs and Controls
• Chapter 4 – Vehicle Inspection
• Chapter 5 – Parking
• Chapter 6 – Lane Changes
• Chapter 7 – Turning
• Chapter 8 – Overtaking and Passing
B. When answering multiple choice questions, choose the best answer.
If you do not know the correct answer, mark “N/A” or “Not Applicable” next to the question. Do not guess.
C. Answer any essay questions as completely as possible.
D. Be sure to circle the letter corresponding to the answer you select.
E. Check your answers by circling the letter corresponding to the correct answer.
F. Once you have passed the written test, you may be issued a temporary permit for up to 30 days.
G. You may retake the written test at any time within 60 days after receiving your temporary permit.
H. After the first two attempts, you may only retest once every 12 months.
I. A person who fails the written test three times in a row may be denied a license for one year.
J. To obtain a full license, you must successfully complete the theory portion of the behind-the-wheel examination.
K. Your driving record will determine whether you are eligible to sit for the behind-the- wheel test.
L. Only drivers with clean records will be allowed to sit for the behind the wheel test.
M. There are no exceptions to this rule.
The Behind-the-Wheel Examination:
1. Make sure that you bring all necessary items with you to the DMV office.
2. Bring proof of insurance coverage.
3. Have your current vehicle inspected by a licensed mechanic.
4. Provide the examiner with a valid driver’s license from another state.
5. Fill out the application form provided by the DMV.
6. Pay the fee and sign the release form.
7. Arrive 15 minutes early for your appointment.
8. Wear comfortable clothing that does not restrict movement and that allows you to feel free to move around during the test.
9. Sit in the front seat of the car.
10. Keep your hands on the steering wheel until instructed otherwise.
11. Always use the right lane. Never drive left of center line.
12. Follow directions given by the examiner.
13. Drive slowly and smoothly. Don’t slam on your brakes or accelerate quickly.
14. Use your turn signals. Turn signal lights must flash continuously while turning.
15. Stop at red light and stop signs.
16. Signal your intention to change lanes before changing lanes.
17. Give way to traffic from the right.
18. Obey all traffic laws.
19. Stay alert.
20. Avoid distractions such as talking on a cell phone, eating, drinking, smoking, reading maps, etc.
21. Be courteous to other motorists.
22. Be prepared to pay tolls and parking fees.
23. Report accidents immediately.
24. Carry a flashlight if you plan to park overnight.
25. Report lost licenses or stolen vehicles.
26. Return the exam book to the DMV office promptly.
27. If you fail the exam, you may take it again within six months.
28. If you fail the written test more than twice, you will be required to take an additional behind-the-wheel test.
29. The DMV will issue a temporary permit for up 30 days.
30. At the end of the 30 day period, you may request a hearing to appeal the decision.
31. If you pass the written test but fail the behind-the-wheels test, you may retake the written test within 60 days.
32. If you pass both tests, you will receive a permanent license.
33. If you fail either test, you may retake each test within 30 days.
34. If you fail both tests, you may apply for a restricted license.
35. If you have been convicted of certain crimes, you may not be issued a license.
36. You may be required to attend Driver Improvement School.
37. You may be required by law enforcement officers to submit to a breathalyzer test.
38. You may be required for a blood alcohol content (BAC) test.
39. You may be required a drug screening.
40. You may be required periodic inspections of your vehicle.
41. You may be required random inspections of your vehicle. This is done to ensure that your vehicle meets safety standards.
42. You may be required special training.
43. You may be required retraining.
44. You may be required reexamination.
45. Your license may be suspended or revoked if you are found guilty of any of the above offenses.
46. You may be required additional testing.
47. You may be required fingerprinting.
48. You may be required photo identification card.
49. You may be required medical examination.
50. You may be required evaluation by a psychologist or psychiatrist.
FAQ
Is the New York driving test easy?
The New York driving test is very difficult because it tests your ability to drive in different conditions. However, the exam is designed to be fair for all drivers, and it takes about 2 hours to complete. If you pass the test, then you will receive a license which allows you to drive legally in New York.
How do I pass my NYS road test first time?
The best way to pass your New York State road test for the first time is to practice driving on the streets where you live. Practice makes perfect! If you need help preparing for your road test.
How many mistakes are allowed on driving test?
The number of mistakes allowed on driving tests varies from country to country, but generally speaking, you can be fined for any mistake made during the test. However, some countries allow only one error per question, while others allow two errors.
