Undocumented immigrants living in the state of New York are eligible to apply for a standard driver license under The Driver’s License Access and Privacy Act, also known as the “Green Light Law.” The law passed in 2019 as an effort to provide a legal way for undocumented immigrants, 16 years and older, in New York to obtain a driver’s license, while improving road safety.
Members from our WhatsApp community have asked Documented about the process and the requirements to apply for a driver’s license through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Here is what you need to know.
This article was updated November 20, 2024.
What is a learner’s permit?
A learner’s permit is the first step towards applying for a driver’s license. It is an indication that the applicant has passed the written test which includes all the traffic regulations. With the learner’s permit, the applicant is also eligible to take lessons to learn how to drive.
In order to get the permit, you will need to take and pass a written test, which covers the rules of the road, how to keep your license, the different types of licenses, and other topics necessary for the safety of the driver and pedestrians. You can prepare for the test by studying the state’s DMV manual in English or Spanish.
The test itself will consist of 20 questions randomly selected from the sections in the manual. Practice exam questions can be accessed through the New York State Driver’s Manual and Practice Tests portal.
You need to get 14 out of the 20 questions correct to pass.
How to prepare for the driver’s license test
The exam can be scheduled in 13 different languages and can be done online or in person. You will need to have a tablet or computer with a webcam enabled to take the test online. Regardless of the method that you choose, you will need proof of address, birth, and identity.
Also, if you have never been issued a social security number you will need to fill out and notarize Form NSS-1A, Affidavit Stating No Social Security Number.
Some of the options for providing proof of indentity include:
- Valid foreign passports (4 points, proof of age)
- Valid Consular ID (4 points, proof of age)
- Foreign Driver’s License Valid or Expired up to 24 months (4 points, proof of age)
- Foreign School Report Card or School Record (1 point) – With photo (2 points)
- US Municipal ID with photo/IDNYC (1 point, proof of residency)
- For the complete list visit the DMV’s website
You will need to provide documentation that totals six points as proof identity. One of your doucments must show you age and one of them must show your address. For example, the proof of identity will be satisfied by foreign passport (4 points) + a Debit Card (1 point) + IDNYC (1 point).
All the documents must have the same name, must be original or certified by the issuing agency, unexpired, translated to English by a certified language interpreter, and not mutilated or damaged.
You can schedule a test by using this link to find the closest location and availability. Some offices require certain services to be done online.
Also Read: REAL ID – Appointment Requirements, Cost, and How to Get One
Taking the road test for NYC driver’s license
Once you have received your learner’s permit, you can work towards obtaining your driver’s license. You will need to:
- Complete a 5-hour pre-licensing course or a driver education course in college or high school.
- Get appropriate amount of supervised driving practice, which is 50 hours is recommended for beginners and individuals under the age of 18.
Pre-licensing course
The 5-hour course is a DMV-approved course that covers important topics regarding driving habits, skills, and driving within the highway transportation system.
The course is available through high schools, colleges, and numerous private driving schools. It can be completed in person or remotely (depending on the school of choice). Once you complete the course you will be given a Pre-Licensing Course Certificate of Completion (MV-285) which is valid for one year from the date of completion.
Supervised driving
Under the supervision of a parent/guardian or adult friend who has a driver’s license, the learner’s permit allows you to get behind the wheel and practice driving, except on the following locations:
- On any street within a park in New York City
- On any bridge or tunnel under the jurisdiction of the Tri-borough Bridge and Tunnel Authority
- On the Cross County, Hutchinson River, Saw Mill River, or Taconic State parkways in Westchester County
- In a DMV road test area
If you cannot get supervised driving practice from your family or friends, you can pay for driving classes at local driving schools. Applicants under 18 must wait 6 months after getting their learner’s permit before applying for a driver’s license.
Scheduling and passing a road test
A driving test can be scheduled through the DMV’s scheduling system. The road test can be taken anywhere in New York, based on the zip code of preference. There is no charge to take the road test, but the fee for a driver’s license can vary between 64.50 and 107.50 dollars depending on your age, and type of license.
If you fail the road test you can retake it again after two weeks. If you fail twice you will need to pay a retesting fee of $10.
What does NOT FOR FEDERAL PURPOSES mean for immigrants without a REAL ID license?
A license and permit that has “NOT FOR FEDERAL PURPOSES” on the top left corner cannot be used as identification for domestic flights, or to enter federally owned buildings.
How does it differ from a REAL ID?
The main difference is that a REAL ID can be used as identification to board domestic flights, and enter federal buildings, and it can only be obtained by individuals who have temporary or permanent lawful status in the United States. Read more.
Will my information be shared with the federal government?
No. The law restricts access by immigration enforcement agencies unless it is required by a judicial order.
Also Read: How to Apply for IDNYC
