DMV's new online tool to simplify exchanging out-of-state driver's license for a New York State one
The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles announced Tuesday a new online tool to simplify exchanging out-of-state driver's licenses for ones from the state. Credit: NYS DMV NEWS
A new online tool will enable just-moved to New York residents with out-of-state driver's licenses to simplify their quest for a state driver's license, the Department of Motor Vehicles said Tuesday.
The new "license reciprocity tool" allows state residents to learn if they are eligible for a New York license — and, if so, to learn what documents they'll need to bring to their DMV office with their application.
"There are so many things to do when you move into a new state and getting a new license is a big one, so we want to make that process as easy as possible," DMV commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said in a statement, adding: "The pre-screening service is part of a much broader effort underway at DMV to better serve our customers and achieve our goal of 'one visit and done.' "
Anyone with an out-of-state license who becomes a state resident must exchange their license for a New York state license within 30 days, the DMV said.
The rule excludes out-of-state students residing within the state for school.
The new tool will help new residents to determine which documents are required with their application for a New York license and can also help residents upgrade their current licenses to a so-called REAL ID or an Enhanced ID. The Federal Department of Homeland Security has extended the REAL ID enforcement deadline to May 7, 2025 — when every air traveler 18 and older will need one, or a REAL ID-compliant document, such as an Enhanced License or U.S. Passport to fly within the United States.
Those documents will be needed as well, in many cases, just to enter a federal building.
For more information visit dmv.ny.gov — or follow the DMV online at Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
John Valenti, a reporter at Newsday since 1981, has been honored nationally by the Associated Press and Society of the Silurians for investigative, enterprise and breaking news reporting, as well as column writing, and is the author of “Swee'pea,” a book about former New York playground basketball star Lloyd Daniels. Valenti is featured in the Emmy Award-winning ESPN 30-for-30 film “Big Shot.”
