TRANSPORTATION / MOTOR VEHICLE INFORMATION

New residents must register their automobiles within 30 days of establishing residency. At the same time, they must obtain a New York drivers license. Proof of identity includes a current photo license from another state, a passport, citizenship papers, or military ID. Other documentation needed to register a vehicle and obtain a drivers license include an insurance identification card, verification of a New York address, proof of date of birth, and proof of signature. New residents of New York who hold a valid license from another state usually only have to take the vision test but they must relinquish their out-of-state license. Automobile insurance is mandatory in New York. For more information or answers to specific questions, contact:

New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
518-486-9786
www.dmv.ny.gov

DMV Offices Directory
www.dmv.ny.gov/offices.htm

Safety & Emissions Testing
All registered vehicles must have an annual safety inspection and emissions inspection. This must be completed within 10 days of vehicle registration. For details, contact:

Vehicle Testing Information
https://dmv.ny.gov/inspection/inspection-requirements

State Safety Regulations
Under New York State law, safety restraint use is required for all front seat occupants regardless of age. This also applies to all rear seat passengers under 16 years of age. Children under age four must be restrained in a federally approved child safety seat. New York’s zero-tolerance policy for seat belt violations means that violators will receive a ticket if stopped for not using a safety restraint.