How to Get a New Driving Licence For a Foreigner
Foreigners typically find obtaining a driving license difficult due to factors like insufficient information and unfamiliarity with local laws.
Most states provide undocumented immigrants with restricted license options that provide lower driving privileges than regular licenses and must include language explaining that federal restrictions still apply. Unfortunately, however, not all states offer such licenses due either to bans on them or legislation prohibiting their provision.
As a general guideline, your current country-issued driving license should suffice when entering the US as long as its validity and name, digits and symbols are visible. Officials and travel agents often advise their clients to obtain an IDP (International Driving Permit), though this isn’t required.
To become a resident of New York, you will have to surrender your previous driving credentials, take and pass the New York Written Exam, a Pre-Licensing or Driver Education course, and the Road Test. After passing these steps successfully, an examiner will issue you with an interim license that allows you to operate a motor vehicle until your new one arrives in the mail – in the meantime make sure your policy or credit card provides coverage.