How to Renew Your Driver’s License in New York

In New York, you can renew your driver’s license up to 1 year before or 2 years after it expires. The cost to renew your license in New York starts at $64.50.
Written by Sean Boehme
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
If you live in
New York
, you can get your
driver’s license
renewed as early as one year before it expires. You can get your driver’s license renewed in person, by mail, or online.
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When to renew your driver’s license in New York

You have the option of renewing your driver’s license as early as one year before it expires. You can also easily renew your license up to two years after it expires. After two years, you’ll need to go through the same process as you did when you first got your license
You can find your driver’s license’s expiration date in New York by looking near the center of the car, just under your DOB. You’ll also receive a renewal notice by mail before your license expires.

How to renew your driver’s license in New York

If you live in New York, you have the option to
renew your license
online, by mail, or in person

Renew your license online

Renewing your driver’s license is a popular choice for New Yorkers that qualify. You can easily start the process through the
DMV's online portal
, but you will have to pay the fee using a credit card. 
The fee is $64.50, but it jumps up to $80.50 if you live in a densely-populated area (such as NYC). 
One thing to keep in mind if you intend to renew your license online is that you will be required to submit a successful vision test. These vision tests must be administered by an approved source such as a physician. 
You cannot renew a
commercial license
online. 

Renew your license by mail

If you’d like to renew your license by mail, you’ll need to fill out the renewal form that is sent to you. You’ll also need to provide proof of a passed vision test and pay the fee by check or money order.
If you can’t find your renewal form, you can instead fill out this
Application for Permit, Driver License, or Non-Driver ID Card
Once you have your material together, you can send it to:
NYS Department of Motor Vehicles
207 Genesee Street, Suite 6
Utica, NY 13501-2874

Renew your license in person

If you opt to make the trip to the DMV to renew your driver’s license, there are a few advantages. When you renew in person you can:
  • Have a new photo take
  • Upgrade to a
    REAL ID
  • Change your license class
You’ll still need to supply either the filled-out renewal notice or the alternative form. You can pay the fee in person using a credit card, check, or money order.

How long does it take to renew a New York driver’s license?

If you renew your driver’s license online, you’ll be able to print out a temporary driver’s license. The temporary driver’s license lasts for 60 days, so it should be valid until you receive your permanent license in the mail.
If you renew your license by mail, you won’t receive a temporary license. Leave yourself plenty of time before your current license expires if you plan to renew by mail.

How to save money on car insurance in New York

While you’re busy renewing your driver’s license, you should consider taking a look at your
car insurance
plan. If you explore quotes from a few different companies, it could take just a few minutes to find savings.
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FAQs

If you drive with an expired license, you’re at risk of being charged with a fine in New York. The fines increase depending on how long your license has been expired. If your license has been expired for 60 days or less, you could be fined up to $40.
Yes, you can renew your license online in New York. You can’t upgrade your license to a REAL ID or have a new photo taken if you choose to renew online.
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