New York License Renewal Guide: Step-by-Step
The New York DMV will send a renewal notice 50 days before license expiration. It’s important you renew as-soon-as-possible to avoid a lapse in your driving privileges.
The renewal opens 1-year before or 2-years after the expiration date.
Those under 21 can renew their license at least 40 days prior to turning 21, marking their license with “Under 21”.
The renewal process isn’t difficult. This guide shares how each method is done.
New York License Renewal Methods
Registration renewal in NY is available via:
- In-person
- Online
Online, in-person, and mail renewals are available if the driver has a still-valid license. A license must be renewed in person if it’s been suspended, lost, or became expired because you’ll need to retake the various tests done prior to license registration.
Important Note
You must renew in person if upgrading to an Enhanced or REAL ID. You also cannot renew your license online or by mail if you did not register originally with an SSN, or valid photo, failed a vision/hearing test or changed addresses.
How to Renew Your NY License
Ready to renew your driver’s license? You’ve got options:
Renewing Online
Renewing online is the easiest option:
- Pass an eye test if it’s not declared on an enhanced or REAL ID
- Visit the New York DMV website
- Fill in your personal and license information
- Confirm the details and pay the renewal fee
You should receive your new license in a few weeks by mail.
Renewing In-Person
Take a trip to your local office (click to find the nearest NY DMV), and:
- Bring and submit your renewal notice
- Or submit: Application for a Driver’s License or Non-Driver ID Card
- Provide your driver’s license and ID
- Pass or show a certificate for the vision test
- Pay the renewal fee
You will receive the license on the spot.
Renewing by Mail
Mail renewal follows the same online process but is slower.
- Get a vision test and its results
- Gather your renewal notice, ID, license, and application
- Or submit: Application for a Driver’s License or Non-Driver ID Card
- Pay the renewal fee
You should receive your license in a few weeks.
About the Vision Test
You may take a vision test at a local pharmacy and eye care center. You will receive a copy of your vision results which you’ll bring, mail, or submit when renewing.
License Renewal Fees for New York State
- Class D, DJ, and non-CDL C licenses: $64.50 – $80.50
- Class M, MJ licenses: $72.50 – $88.50
- Class E license: $112.50 – $128.50
Extra fees and taxes may apply by county with most credit cards being accepted.
A check or money order is required for mail-in renewals.
