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Moving to New York? Here’s How to Transfer Your Out-of-State Driver’s License 🗽🚗

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by

Austin Nguyen
in

Welcome to New York, where life moves fast—and so should your DMV experience! If you’ve recently moved here, you’ll need to transfer your out-of-state license within 30 days of becoming a resident. Luckily, the process is pretty straightforward if your license is valid—and DMV Slots can help you book a faster DMV appointment, saving you time.

📅 When Do You Need to Transfer Your License?

You must transfer your out-of-state license within 30 days after establishing residency.
✔️ You’re considered a resident if you live in NY for 90 days and plan to stay permanently.

❌ Licenses That Can’t Be Transferred:

  • Suspended or revoked licenses
  • Lost or stolen licenses (get a replacement from your previous state first)
  • Hardship/employment-only licenses
  • Non-renewable or non-transferable licenses

In these cases, you’ll need to apply for a new NY license.

📝 How to Transfer Your Out-of-State License to NY:

1. Schedule a DMV Appointment

Appointments are highly recommended due to long wait times.
DMV Slots helps you find earlier appointments, so you don’t wait weeks.

2. Gather These Required Documents:

  • Proof of Identity (choose one):
    • U.S. Passport or Passport Card
    • U.S. Birth Certificate
    • Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
  • Valid Out-of-State License:
    • Must have your photo
    • Must be valid or expired less than 24 months
    • Issued at least 6 months before applying
  • Payment: $65 – $75 by cash, check, or credit/debit card

3. Pass the Vision Test

You must pass a vision test with 20/40 vision (in one or both eyes, with or without glasses).
Options:

  • Take the test at the DMV OR
  • Bring a completed MV-619 Eye Test Report from a certified provider.

4. Get Your Temporary License

If everything checks out, you’ll receive a temporary license on the spot.

  • Valid for driving and ID use until your permanent license arrives by mail (in about 2 weeks).
  • Your new NY license is valid for 5 years.

🎓 Are You a Student in NY?

If you’re attending school in NY but live elsewhere, you don’t need to transfer your license. You’re not considered a NY resident.

🌍 Transferring a Foreign License?

  • You can drive temporarily with a valid foreign license.
  • If you become a NY resident, you must:
    • Apply for a new NY license
    • Pass a written test, complete a pre-licensing course, and pass a road test.

⏳ Need to Book a DMV Appointment? DMV Slots Helps You Get It Faster!

Why wait weeks for a DMV slot? DMV Slots helps you:

  • Find earlier appointment openings in New York, Texas, and North Carolina.
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👉 Visit www.dmvslots.com/ny and get your license transfer done faster!