How to Prepare for Your NY Road Test

Before Your Test, You'll Need To

• Pass the written permit test and obtain your New York State Learner Permit
• Complete a 5-Hour Pre-Licensing Course, or the equivalent through a high school/college driver education program
• Review the New York State Driver's Manual (MV-21)
• Get supervised driving practice, following all learner permit rules
• Review the Guidelines for Testing Drivers in Vehicles with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), if applicable

Road Test Scheduling Rules

• If you're under 18, you must wait a minimum of 6 months after getting your learner permit
• The scheduling system shows the earliest available dates based on the ZIP code you enter
• There is no waiting list — you book directly into an open slot
• Tests are mostly held on weekdays; Saturday testing is offered occasionally
• You can test anywhere in New York State, not just near where you live
• Road test locations are available to look up online before you schedule

What You'll Need

• Your valid New York State Learner Permit
• Your original, unexpired Pre-Licensing Course Certificate (MV-278) or Student Certificate of Completion (MV-285) — no copies accepted
• At least one unused road test appointment available

Road Test Day Guidelines

• Check for updates before you leave — tests can be cancelled or delayed
• Arrive up to 15 minutes early. If you're late, you'll have to reschedule

Bring With You

• Photo learner permit (physical copy)
• Glasses or contacts, if required by your permit
• Your original Pre-Licensing or Student Completion Certificate (no copies)
• Certification of Supervised Driving, if under 18, signed by a parent or guardian

Accompanying Licensed Driver Requirements

• Must be 18+ if driving you there, or 21+ if you're driving yourself to the test site
• Must have a valid physical driver's license
• Must provide a safe, clean vehicle with valid registration, insurance, and inspection
• No other passengers allowed — only you and the accompanying driver

Results are posted after 6 p.m. on the day of your test, on the road test results website.

If You Pass

• You'll receive an interim license online — keep it with your photo permit until your official license arrives by mail (about 2 weeks)
• All new drivers go through a probation period
• Drivers under 18 with a DJ, MJ, or DJ/MJ license must follow the junior driver restrictions under the GDL law

If You Don't Pass

• Your learner permit stays valid until it expires
• You can retake the test after 14 days
• After two failed attempts, there's a fee for each additional try

Payment Requirements

• Valid learner permit
• DMV ID number and date of birth
• No other test appointments already scheduled
• Credit or debit card