What are New York drivers license types? How to obtain a license, how to renew or replace one and what to do when it’s suspended. This guide uses the current official New York State DMV source and explains renewal, replacement and REAL ID differences without assuming every driver has the same eligibility. Find information to help young drivers, their parents, and guardians understand the Graduated Driver License Law and other responsibilities and restrictions for new drivers. Overview You must have a valid, unexpired license to operate a vehicle in New York State. Renew your license online for the fastest and easiest experience. You can also renew by mail or at a DMV office. The DMV has more information about how to renew a license or how to renew a non-driver ID. Renew your New York Drivers license. Prepare all your DMV info. Get all the forms, rules and steps required for your NY drivers license renewal. There are three different options in which to renew your license in New York. They are the following: By Mail, at a DMV office, or Online. The official website of the State of New York. Find information about state government agencies and learn more about our programs and services. Renew a New York license online, by mail, or at the DMV. Check vision test rules, fees, Enhanced ID, REAL ID, and timing. After you renew, you can download and print a temporary license in PDF format to use until your new license arrives. Due to a greater than normal volume of renewals, there may be a delay in receipt of your permanent document. Your temporary document is valid for 60 days. Check the status of your New York driver's license or driving privilege for free through MyDMV — see if it's valid, suspended, or revoked, and what to do next. You can renew your New York driver’s license in three ways: online, by mail, or at a DMV office. Every renewal requires proof of a vision test. Licenses renew every 8 years, and you can renew up to 1 year before your expiration date or up to 2 years after.