Updated for 2026

New York NYS DMV (New York State Department of Motor Vehicles)

Comprehensive study guide for the 2026 driver's knowledge exam. Everything you need to know about laws, fees, and requirements.

Total Questions

Passing Score

Standard Fee

$65 - $103 (varies by age & location)

Testing System

touchscreen computer

Critical Failure Factors

A unique and common reason for failing the New York test is the specific 'Road Sign' requirement: you must answer at least 14 out of 20 questions correctly in total, BUT you must also strictly get at least 2 out of the 4 road sign questions correct. Failing 3 road sign questions results in an automatic fail, regardless of your total score.

Legal Statutes & Driving Codes

New York State traffic laws are among the most complex in the nation due to the stark differences between New York City (NYC), Long Island, and Upstate New York. The most critical set of laws for new drivers pertains to the Junior License (Class DJ) restrictions, which are strictly enforced and vary by region. In 'Upstate New York' (counties north of NYC), a Junior Driver may drive unsupervised between 5:00 AM and 9:00 PM. However, between 9:00 PM and 5:00 AM, they may only drive alone directly between home and work or school; otherwise, they must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The rules change drastically for 'New York City' (the 5 boroughs). Here, a driver with a Junior License (Class DJ) is prohibited from driving at any time, under any circumstances, even with a parent present. The only exception is if the vehicle has dual controls (like a driving school car) and the instructor is present, but for personal driving, it is illegal. On 'Long Island' (Nassau and Suffolk counties), the rules are a hybrid: unsupervised driving is allowed from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM only for trips to work, school, or driver education; for any other purpose, a guardian is required. Another major law is the 'Ambrose-Searles Move Over Act,' which requires drivers to exercise due care to avoid colliding with an authorized emergency vehicle that is parked, stopped, or standing on the shoulder. You must move from the lane immediately adjacent to the vehicle or slow down significantly. Furthermore, New York has aggressive anti-distraction laws. Using a portable electronic device while driving (calling, texting, gaming) carries a penalty of 5 violation points. Accumulating 11 points within an 18-month period results in a license suspension. Regarding alcohol, New York enforces a 'Zero Tolerance' law for drivers under 21. While the standard DWI limit is 0.08% BAC, for a driver under 21, a BAC ranging from 0.02% to 0.07% is considered a 'Zero Tolerance' violation, leading to an automatic 6-month license suspension and a $125 civil penalty plus fees.

Statistical Realities

New York is unique in that passing the written permit test is only the very first step in a long administrative process that involves a mandatory classroom requirement unlike most other states. Before you can even schedule your road test, you are legally required to complete the '5-Hour Pre-Licensing Course'. This is a classroom-based (or increasingly online) lecture on defensive driving and alcohol awareness; you receive a certificate (MV-278) which you must physically present to the examiner on the day of your road test. Without this certificate, your road test will be cancelled immediately. Another crucial fact for driving in New York involves the 'Right on Red' rule. In almost every jurisdiction in the United States, turning right on a red light is legal after a full stop. However, in New York City (specifically the 5 boroughs), turning right on red is ILLEGAL unless a sign explicitly permits it. This catches thousands of tourists and Upstate drivers every year. Conversely, in the rest of New York State (outside NYC), right on red is legal unless signed otherwise. New York also utilizes specific rest areas on highways known as 'Text Stops,' encouraging drivers to pull over to use their phones safely. When applying for your permit, you must navigate the '6 Points of ID' system, which is a mathematical requirement for identity verification. For example, a Passport is worth 4 points, a Social Security Card is 2 points, but a debit card is only 1 point. You must have exactly 6 points or more to even take the test. Finally, be aware of the vehicle inspection laws: every vehicle in NY must pass a safety and emissions inspection every 12 months. The inspection sticker on the windshield changes color every year to help police easily identify expired inspections. If you are taking your road test, the car you bring must have a valid inspection sticker, or the examiner will refuse to get in the car.