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N E W Y O R K S T A T E D E P A R T M E N T O F M O T O R V E H I C L E S
Drivers Manual
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You must have a valid driver license to drive legally in New York State. If you
reside in and hold a valid license from another state or nation, you can drive legally
in New York State. Even if you are licensed somewhere else, people under age 16
cannot drive in New York State.
Drivers who have moved here must turn in their out-of-state driver license and
get a New York State license within 30 days after you become a permanent resident.
In most cases, it is illegal to hold a New York State driver license and a driver license
from another state. It is also a violation of Federal law to hold more than one
commercial driver license (CDL).
TYPES OF LICENSES
New York State recognizes six types of non-commercial driver licenses. The
information in this chapter applies to passenger car and motorcycle licenses.
Information about commercial driver licenses can be found in the Commercial
Drivers Manual (CDL-10). This is available from the DMV Internet Office, from a
DMV Call Center or at any motor vehicle office. You must have a CDL if you drive
any vehicle that:
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4 Is made or used to carry 15 or more persons, not including the driver; or,
4 Regardless of seating capacity, is defined as a bus by Article 19-A of the
Vehicle and Traffic Law (including vehicles that carry school children or
disabled people); or,
4 Carries hazardous materials required by federal law to contain a placard.
Operator, Class D - Minimum age is 18, or age 17 with driver education (see Driver
Education). Allows you to drive a vehicle with a manufacturers gross vehicle weight
rating (GVWR) of 26,000 lbs. (11,794 kg) or less, and a tow vehicle with a GVWR of
10,000 pounds. (4,536 kg) or less, if the gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of
the two vehicles together is no more than 26,000 pounds. (11,794 kg). You can also
operate Class B and C mopeds with this driver license.
Non-CDL Class C - Minimum age is 18. Allows you to drive some vehicles with a
GVWR and tow vehicle combinations up to 26,000 pounds (11,794 kg) that do not
require a CDL endorsement.
Taxi/Livery, Class E - Minimum age is 18. Allows you to drive the same vehicles as
a Class D license, and transport passengers for hire in a vehicle designed or used to
carry 1or fewer passengers. If the vehicle is defined as a bus under Article 19-A of
the Vehicle and Traffic Law (e.g., a school car or a van that transports physically or
mentally disabled persons), regardless of seating capacity, you must have a CDL.
Note: If you have a motorcycle license and another type of driver license, both
classes will be listed on one document (e.g., Class DM).
Enhanced Driver License - Can be used for land and sea border crossings to and
from the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean. This license can be used
instead of a passport as an identity and Citizenship document at these crossings and
for air travel within the U.S. This is an option for NYS residents who are U.S. citizens.
Commercial driver licenses and motorcycle licenses can be issued as an EDL.
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Recreational Vehicle or R endorsement - Recreational vehicles, with or without
air brakes, are not defined as commercial vehicles. You can apply for an R
endorsement for your Class D, Class E or non-CDL Class C driver license to allow
you to operate a recreational vehicle (RV) with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of over
26,000 pounds (11,794 kg). An R endorsement also allows you to drive a rental
vehicle with a length of more than 40 feet for the transportation of personal
household products.
You must bring your completed application to any motor vehicle office, show
the required proof of name and date of birth, provide your Social Security card and
pay the correct fee.
Your first New York State driver license will be issued for a period not to exceed
5 years, on your month and day of birth. Your fee for a learner permit and license in
Class D, DJ, M or MJ will be based on your age and date of birth.
For your protection, DMV must be sure who you are. As part of the application,
you must provide your Social Security card. You must present documents that prove
your name and age. All proofs must be in English or accompanied by a certified
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English translation. The list of acceptable documents and assigned point values,
described below, are on forms License/Permit/ID Instructions (MV-44.1) and Proofs
of Identity (ID-44) available from the DMV Internet Office, from a DMV Call Center
by request or at any motor vehicle office.
Proof of Name
Documents that prove your name are assigned a point value. You must present
proofs that total six points or more. At least one of the proofs must have your
signature. Examples of common proofs and their point values are listed below.
4 Foreign passport - in English and with a U.S. Visa and valid I-9 or unexpired
I-551 stamp or statement on visa. If the document is not in English, a
certified translation by the embassy or consulate of the issuing country is
required. See the publication Proofs of Identity (ID-44).
4 Valid U.S. Re-entry Permit (I-327)
4 Valid U.S. Refugee Travel Document (I-571)
4 Certificate of Citizenship or Certificate of Naturalization (N-550, N-560,
N-561, N-570, N-578 or N-645)
4 Permanent Resident Identification Card (INS I-551)
4 Valid U.S. Employment Authorization Card (INS I-688B or I-766, with photo)
4 U.S. Military Photo Identification Card (issued to military personnel only)
4 NYS. Medicaid/Benefit/Food Stamp Card, with photo (or, 2 points
without photo)
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4 NYS Vehicle Certificate of Title
4 NYS Vehicle or Boat Registration Document
4 U.S. Social Security Card (must have your signature)
4 U.S. High School ID With Report Card
4 U.S. College ID With Photo and Transcript
4 U.S. Marriage or Divorce Record or Court-Issued Name Change Document
4 NYS Professional License
4 NYS or New York City Pistol Permit
4 St. Regis Mohawk Tribe identification card
Proof of Age
You must prove your date of birth. The DMV will accept the original or certified copy
of ANY ONE of these documents from the issuing agency:
4 Birth Certificate issued and certified by the U.S. Department of State or a
Board of Health or Bureau of Vital Statistics in the U.S., its territories or
possessions
4 Certificate of Birth Registration issued by the Department of Health of New
York State or New York City
4 St. Regis Mohawk Tribe identification card plus a birth certificate issued
by Canada
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4 U.S. Military Photo Identification Card
4 U.S. Passport
4 Foreign Passport (with INS documentation) or Immigration Documents -
See the publication Proofs of Identity (ID-44) for details
4 Certification of Citizenship or Certificate of Naturalization
To pass the vision test, you must have 20/40 vision in at least one eye with or
without corrective lenses. If you cannot pass this test or if you wear special lenses,
contact a DMV Call Center for additional instruction.
The written test for a Class D, M, DJ, MJ or E license examines knowledge of the
rules of the road, safe driving techniques, road signs and the laws about alcohol and
drug use while driving. To pass the written test, you must correctly answer at least 14
of the 20 questions asked, but you must correctly answer two of the four questions
about road signs. You can practice for the written test with the questions included in
this Drivers Manual and you can take practice quizzes on-line at the DMV Web site.
(dmv.ny.gov)
Before they apply for a learner permit, students who are at least age 15 can
take the written test through the DMV Online Knowledge Test Application (OKTA)
program. The test is given at participating high schools across New York State. The
test is given in an easy-to-use format and is offered in English and Spanish.
Students who pass the test online will receive a receipt, instructions and all
required forms to apply for a learner permit. Students who are at least age 16 can
bring their receipt and completed forms to any state or county motor vehicle office
to apply for a learner permit. Students who fail the test can take it again online as
many times as the school allows.
When you pass the vision and written tests and pay your fees, your learner
permit will be issued and you can start to learn to drive. When you practice, a
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licensed driver at least 21 must accompany you. That driver must have a license
valid for the type of vehicle. In Long Island and New York City, this person must be
a parent or guardian or an instructor.
There are special restrictions for a driver less than 18 years old (see the
publication, Learner Permits and Junior Licenses (C-41), available from the DMV
Web site dmv.ny.gov, from a DMV Call Center or at any motor vehicle office. When
you apply, your permit will be valid for three to five years, depending on your age.
When you pass the road test, your new driver license will expire on the same date
as your permit would have expired.
If you have a license or permit and want to apply for a permit for a different
class of license, the new permit will be valid for one year only. When you submit
your permit application, make sure to ask about special procedures you must follow.
Safe drivers often find their amount of practice before the road test made a
positive difference. Before you take the test, it is important that you have had at
least 50 hours of practice, with at least 15 hours after sunset It is recommended that
at least 10 hours of the supervised practice be in moderate to heavy traffic. Road
tests are given on city streets, but you should practice on expressways and other
types of highways as well. DMV suggests you take a high school or college driver
education course or lessons from a DMV-licensed driving school. If you cannot
take a course or lessons, have the person who teaches you read Parts 2 and 3 of
this manual.
You cannot practice in a DMV road test area or on any restricted roads. In
New York City, these areas include any street within a park and all bridges and
tunnels under the jurisdiction of the Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority. In
Westchester County, the streets and roadways you cannot practice on include
these parkways: Cross County, Hutchinson River, Saw Mill River and Taconic State.
Before you can make a road test appointment, you must first complete an
approved safe driver course. This requirement is automatically fulfilled as part of
every high school or college driver education course. All other drivers can complete
this requirement when they take a special Pre-Licensing course available at most
professional driving schools. To find where this course is offered, look in the Yellow
Pages of your local telephone directory under Driving Instruction. When you
complete the course, you will receive a certificate to show when you make your
road test appointment. The certificate is valid for one year.
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The Road Test
In most areas of the state, you must make your road test appointment by
telephone at 1-(518)-402-2100. You must have your Pre-licensing Course
Completion Certificate (MV-278) or driver education course Student Certificate Of
Completion (MV-285) before you schedule your appointment. During your call, you
will be informed whether your local motor vehicle office participates in the road test
telephone-appointment program. An office that does not participate can schedule
your appointment in person or by mail. In that case, bring or mail your permit and
course completion certificate to your local motor vehicle office. You can schedule
your road test through the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov/roadtest.
If you cannot be at the road test site at the assigned time for a non-commercial
driver license, you can request to a different road test appointment. You must make
this request at least 24 hours before the scheduled test date call the road test
appointment telephone number, 1-(518)-402-2100, visit the DMV Web site
dmv.ny.gov or contact the office where you made the original appointment.
The DMV can cancel road tests because of bad weather. You may call the
road test appointment telephone number, or contact the office where you made
your original appointment for announcements of road test cancellations.
Your permit must be held, in valid status, for a minimum of six months in
order to take the road test, unless you are 17 and hold a valid Student Certificate of
Completion (MV-285). When you pass the road test, you will be issued a Junior
License (Class DJ or MJP. See the chart Regional Restrictions for a Junior License.
A DMV motor vehicle license examiner will conduct the road test. You must give
the license examiner your photo learner permit, your 5-hour pre-licensing course
completion certificate (MV-278) or your Student Certificate of Completion (MV-285)
and a completed Certification of Supervised Driving (MV-262). All junior drivers with
permits are required to present a completed MV-262 at the time of the road test.
You must bring a vehicle to drive during the road test. The vehicle must be
correctly registered, inspected, insured and equipped, and in good working order.
This includes doors and seat belts. The passenger side seat belt must be available
and clean for use by the examiner. If you drive to the road test site, you must also
bring a supervising driver who is at least 21 and holds a license valid for the vehicle
you will drive during the road test. Motorcycle applicants must bring a car or truck
and a licensed driver to transport the license examiner during the test.
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For All Other Drivers With Permits
When you take your road test, you must give the license examiner your photo
learner permit, your 5-hour pre-licensing course completion certificate (MV-278) or
your Student Certificate of Completion (MV-285). As described for Junior Drivers
With Permits, you must also provide a vehicle to drive during the road test and a
correctly licensed driver.
When you qualify for a non-commercial license Class D, DJ, E, M or MJ, the
examiner will issue you a printed receipt. This receipt plus your photo learner
permit will be a temporary driver license valid for 90 days. Your new photo license
will arrive in the mail within three to five weeks.
At the conclusion of the road test, the DMV will issue you a receipt of your test
results. If you qualify for a Commercial Driver License (CDL), you must visit a Motor
Vehicle office to obtain your Commercial Drivers License document. Please wait at
least one visit day before visiting the Motor Vehicle office. The CDL is license is only
issued to applicants who meet the medical certification requirements (if required)
and all other requirements. Those requirements include checks of the National
Driver Registry (NDR) and Commercial Driver License Information System (SDLIS).
If you did not pass your CDL road test, you may continue to practice driving until
the date the permit expires. There is a fee for scheduling each additional road test.
When you take a CDL test (Class A, B or C), if you are required to meet the
federal medical requirements in 49 CFR Part 391 you must present a valid Medical
Examiners Certificate to the DMV license examiner at the time of the skills test. This
requirement applies if your document does not have an A3 restriction, or, if you are
over 21, a K restriction.
If you qualify for a Commercial Driver License (CDL Class A, B or C), you must
correct your original license in person at any state or county motor vehicle office.
Wait until at least five business days after you pass the road test before you make the
amendment. If you did not pass your CDL road test, you can continue to practice
until the date the permit expires. There is a fee to schedule each additional road test.
When you qualify for a license, you must continue to be careful and obey the
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traffic laws to gain experience as a capable driver. Many motorists enroll in a DMV-
certified Point and Insurance Reduction Program (PIRP) for more training. The
PIRP is available through private companies or corporations in New York State.
This program reviews time-tested safe driving tips and provides a summary of the
vehicle and traffic laws. If you are eligible for point reduction, as many as four (4)
points can be reduced from your record. You can complete this course every 18
months for the purpose of point reduction. Participants who complete the program
will receive a minimum 10% reduction in the base rate of liability and collision
insurance premiums each year for three years. For more information, see the DMV
publication Point and Insurance Reduction Program (C-32A), available from the
DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov, from a DMV Call Center or at any motor vehicle office.
If you are a new resident with a valid driver license issued by a U.S. state,
territory or possession, or a Canadian province or territory, you must turn in your
out-of-state license to get a New York driver license. You must show additional proof
of name and date of birth (see Applying for your First License), and provide your
Social Security card. You must pass the vision test. If your out-of-state license has
been valid for less than six months or had expired more than one year ago, you must
also pass the written and road tests and complete the safe driving course.
If you are a new resident licensed in a country other than Canada, you must
pass the vision test, complete the safe driving course, turn in your foreign license,
and you must pass a written and road test. When you pass the road test, you must
give your foreign license to the DMV motor vehicle license examiner who conducted
the test. Your foreign driver license will be destroyed unless you provide the
examiner a written request to hold your foreign license on file at a New York State
office of the Department of Motor Vehicles. The license examiner will tell you which
DMV District Office will hold your foreign license. Your foreign license will be
returned at your request, but only after you return your New York State license.
LICENSE RENEWAL
You are responsible to know when your driver license expires and to renew it
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on time. If the DMV has your current address, you should receive a renewal notice
and instructions in the mail approximately 45 days before your license expires. If
you do not receive the notice, you can apply for renewal at a motor vehicle office.
You can renew your license up to one year before its printed expiration date.
Most driver licenses can be renewed through the mail or through the DMV Internet
Office. For either renewal process, you must prove you have passed an eye test within six
months or within one year as determined by a licensed health care professional before
the date you renew your license. To renew by mail, you must return to the DMV your
renewal application and a completed Eye Test Report (MV-619) that which documents
that you passed the vision test. If you renew through the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov, you
will need information from a completed Eye Test Report by your health care professional.
An Eye Test Report form is available from the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov, from a DMV
Call Center or at any motor vehicle office. You can bring the driver license renewal form
and the Eye Test Report to any motor vehicle office and renew in person. If you apply for
a renewal in person, you will be allowed to take the vision test at the motor vehicle office.
When renewing in person, you must present your current license or six points
of identification and, if needed, your Social Security card. You can renew your driver
license up to one year before your current license expires. Make sure to renew early
if your license will expire while you are out of state. If you cannot renew early or a
serious illness prevents you from doing so, contact a DMV Call Center.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS
If you change your address you must notify DMV within 10 days by mail or on
a Change-of-Address Form (MV-232). You must write the new address in the space
provided on the back of your driver license.
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18 years old who are licensed outside New York State.
The restrictions for drivers with learner permits and junior licenses are also
presented in the publication Learner Permits & Junior Licenses (C-41), available
from the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov.
Definitions
PROPERLY LICENSED means the supervising driver has a license valid to drive
the type of vehicle being driven by the new or junior driver.
GUARDIAN means a person who has, on a regular and extended basis, assumed
the character of a parent and discharges parental duties because of the death,
disability or absence of the real parent.
IN LOCO PARENTIS means a person who has, on a regular and extended basis,
assumed the character of a parent and discharges parental duties because of the
death, disability or absence of the real parent.
DAYCARE applies to travel to and from child care if the attendance of the child is
necessary for a family member to maintain employment or attend a school course.
4 Unless you are accompanied by a supervising driver at least age 21 who has a
license to operate the vehicle you are driving. In Long Island and New York
City, this person must be a parent, guardian or driving instructor. For example,
a person with a motorcycle license can supervise a motorcycle learner.
4 In a DMV road test area.
4 On any street within a park in New York City or any bridge or tunnel under
the jurisdiction of the Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority.
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4 On the Cross County, Hutchinson River, Saw Mill River, or Taconic State
parkways in Westchester County.
If you are less than 16, you cannot drive in New York State even if you have an
out-of-state license.
9 PM 5 AM 9 PM 5 AM 9 PM 5 AM
You must NOT drive. You must NOT drive. You must drive only under the
immediate supervision of your:
1. Parent
2. Guardian
3. Person in loco parentis
4. Driver Education Teacher
5. Driving School Instructor
The person above must be at
least age 21 and have a license
valid for the vehicle being
driven.
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The restrictions in this publication also apply to operating a motorcycle or
moped. Your learner permit or limited junior license (Class M or MJ, or Limited
Class MJ) does not allow you to carry any passenger except your supervising driver.
Your supervising driver must have a driver license valid to operate the same class
motorcycle or moped you are driving, and must exercise general supervision and
control by remaining within one-quarter mile. It is strongly recommended that your
supervising driver be able to see you at all times.
4 You cannot drive with more than one passenger less than 21 unless they are
members of your immediate family or if your supervising driver is your
licensed parent, guardian, person in loco parentis, driver education
teacher or driving school instructor.
4 You and each passenger must wear a seat belt: one per person. Every child
passenger must use a correct child restraint. (See: Chapter 8, Seat Belts,
Child Safety Seats, and Air Bags)
4 If you hold a junior permit or a limited junior license, the only passenger
9 PM 5 AM 9 PM 5 AM 9 PM 5 AM
You must NOT drive. You may drive alone only directly You may drive alone only when
between your home and a work- traveling directly between your
study program, a course at a home and employment or a
college, university, or registered school course.
evening high school, a driver
education course, or while All other driving must be
engaged in farm employment. accompanied by your licensed
parent, guardian, or person
in loco parentis.
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allowed in the front seat is your supervising driver.
4 Also see Special Rules for Drivers with Junior Permits and Licenses, Chapter 2.
You can drive by yourself between home and your employment, which can
include farm work, if you carry the correct proof of employment. Your employer can
complete a Certificate of Employment (MV-58A), available from the DMV Internet
Office, from a DMV Call Center and at local motor vehicle offices. In the upstate
counties only, instead of an employment certificate, you can carry a letter from your
employer. The letter must be marked with a date and signed by your employer, and
must show the business name, address and telephone number where you work.
It also must list your name, date of birth, client ID number, job description,
and days, hours and location of employment. The address and telephone number
at which the employer can be contacted must be included for verification by a
magistrate or police officer.
When you drive by yourself between your home and a qualified school course
or approved work-study program, you must carry proof of enrollment. This must be
a letter, marked with a date and signed by an appropriate school or program official,
on the school or program letterhead. It must include the address and telephone
number of the official for verification by a magistrate or police officer. The letter also
must include the date(s), hour(s) and location(s) of the school course or program
activity, your name, date of birth, and client ID number.
DRIVER EDUCATION
If you are 17, you are eligible for a senior driver license (Class D or M) if you
have a junior driver license or limited junior driver license and have completed a
state-approved high school or college driver education course. To change your
junior license to a senior license, bring your junior license and the Student
Certificate of Completion (MV-285) that you received from your instructor to any
motor vehicle office. You must return your certificate and junior license to receive
the senior license. If you do not change your junior license to a senior license, you
are subject to the restrictions for junior drivers until you are age 18, even if you
carry the completion certificate with you. You can also give your certificate with
your junior permit to the license examiner at your road test. You will automatically
receive a senior license when you become eligible.
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CHAPTER 2 How to Keep Your License
If you commit a serious traffic violation or several violations that are less serious,
you can lose your driving privilege through suspension or revocation of your license.
Suspension means your license (or privilege to drive) is taken away for a period of
time before it is returned. You may be required to pay a suspension termination fee.
Revocation means your license (or privilege to drive) is cancelled. To get a new license,
you must re-apply to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) once the revocation
period is over. You may be required to pay a license re-application fee. Your application
may be denied if you have a poor driving record or refuse to meet DMV requirements.
Revocation periods may be longer than the minimum periods listed in this publication.
Your junior permit, license or privileges will be revoked for 60 days if you are
convicted of a serious violation (three points or more), or two other violations
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within the first six months after you receive your license or privileges back following
suspension or revocation.
In addition, your junior permit, license or privileges will be suspended for 120
days when you are convicted of a texting or cell phone violation.
A junior permit must be held for a minimum of six months, excluding any time
the permit is suspended or revoked, before a road test can be scheduled.
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TRAFFIC TICKETS RECEIVED OUT OF STATE
The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles does not record convictions
of moving traffic violations by NYS non-commercial licensed drivers in other
jurisdictions, except traffic offenses committed in the provinces of Ontario and
Quebec in Canada. Out-of-state traffic convictions, except for Ontario and Quebec,
are not added to your New York State violation point driving record.
However, your New York State driver license will be suspended if you fail
to answer a ticket for a moving violation in any state except Alaska, California,
Michigan, Montana, Oregon or Wisconsin. Your license will remain suspended until
you answer the ticket. For clearance of your NYS driver license or permit you must
submit proof to the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles that the ticket has been
satisfied. Drivers from any state, except from the six states listed above, will have
their driver licenses suspended in their own state if they fail to answer a moving
violation summons in New York State.
If you are under 21 years old and convicted of any alcohol or drug-related
violation that occurred out of state on or after November 1, 2000, your New York
State driver license will be revoked for at least one year. If you have any alcohol
conviction, even if the violation occurred before November 1, 2000, your license
will be revoked for at least one year or until the age of 21, whichever is longer.
The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles records the conviction of
any New York driver for criminal negligence, homicide, or assault that arises from
the operation of a motor vehicle and which results in death. The driver license or
privilege to drive and all vehicle registrations can be suspended. It does not matter
if the conviction occurred in this state or another state.
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Alcohol and Drug Violations (Also see Chapter 9: Alcohol and Other Drugs)
Chemical Test Refusals (Also see Chapter 9: Alcohol and Other Drugs)
4 Chemical test refusal, drivers over age 21: minimum one-year revocation
4 Chemical test refusal, drivers over age 21, within five years of a prior
refusal revocation or any alcohol or drug-related violation: minimum
18-month revocation
4 Chemical test refusal, drivers under age 21, first time: minimum one-year
revocation
4 Chemical test refusal, drivers less than 21, second time: Minimum revocation
until age 21 or one year, whichever is longer
4 Zero Tolerance test refusal: Minimum one-year revocation
If you are under 21 when arrested, conviction for any of the alcohol or drug-
related violations listed above will result in a minimum one-year revocation. A
second violation while less than 21 requires a revocation for one year or until you
reach 21, whichever is longer. These penalties apply to youthful offenders, or if you
were arrested or convicted out of state (see Traffic Tickets Received Out Of State).
Under the states Zero Tolerance Law, a driver less than 21 will have his
license suspended for six months if found to have a BAC from .02 to .07. A .02 BAC
could occur from only one drink. For a second Zero Tolerance violation, the driver
license will be revoked for one year or until the driver turns 21, whichever is longer.
Your driver license will be revoked for at least six months if you are found guilty of:
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4 One participating in a speed contest violation. Conviction of a second
speed contest violation within 12 months results in a revocation of at least
one year.
No Insurance
Your driver license will be revoked for at least one year if you operate or allow
another person to operate your uninsured vehicle, or if the DMV receives evidence
that you were involved in a traffic crash without being insured. If the insurance
coverage for your vehicle has expired, you must turn in the license plates and
registration to a motor vehicle office. If the vehicle is removed from the road and
not being driven, you must return the plates or you can face civil penalties or
registration suspension and/or license suspension.
Indefinite Suspensions/Revocations
Your driver license will also be suspended indefinitely if you fail to file an
accident report, submit a bad check for DMV fees, fail to pay child support, fail
to pay taxes or fail to fulfill a court judgment that results from a traffic accident.
This suspension will be in effect until you correct the condition that led to the
suspension.
Commercial Drivers
It is a felony to drive a school bus that carries one or more students while you
are impaired or intoxicated. If you are found guilty of an alcohol or drug-related
violation while driving a school bus, taxi or livery vehicle a passenger inside, your
driver license will be revoked for at least one year. If found guilty of a second
violation within 10 years, you could be permanently prohibited from holding a
Class CDL license. For more information about the commercial driver penalties,
see the Commercial Drivers Manual (CDL-10).
While each violation listed alone is not serious enough to require license
suspension or revocation, the accumulation of several violations on your driving
record can indicate that action must be taken.
The point values charged against your record are from the date you commit the
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Violation Points Violation Points
Speeding MPH not specified 3 Improper passing, unsafe lane
Speeding MPH over change, drove left of center, or
posted limit: 1 to 10 3 drove wrong direction 3
violation, not the date you are convicted. If you get 11 or more points within 18
months, you will be notified by mail that your driver license will be suspended. You
can request a DMV hearing only to show that the convictions in question were not
yours. You cannot re-argue the convictions or request the suspension be waived
based on special circumstances.
You can reduce your point total by up to four points and save up to 10 percent
on your auto liability and collision insurance premiums by taking a DMV-approved
Motor Vehicle Accident Prevention Course. Completion of a point reduction
course cannot prevent a mandatory suspension or revocation or be applied as
a credit against future points, or prevent or reduce a Driver Responsibility
Assessment by the DMV. For more information, see the publication Point And
Insurance Reduction (C-32A), available from the DMV Internet Office.
Note: Insurance companies can have their own point systems. These have no
relationship to and should not be confused with the DMV point system.
*All V&TL violations result in fines to the driver in addition to license sanctions.
TRAFFIC CRASHES
At this time, except where required by law, the term accident is frequently
replaced by crash. This is because a crash can normally be prevented. If you are
involved in a traffic crash in which another person is killed, your license can
suspended or revoked after a DMV hearing even if you were not charged with a
violation when the incident occurred.
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FEES AND CIVIL PENALTIES
If your driver license has been suspended for an exact period, like 30 days
or 90 days, your license will not be returned until you pay a non-refundable $50
suspension termination fee.
In most cases, if your driver license has been revoked, you cannot apply for a
new license until you pay a non-refundable $100 fee to reapply for the license. This
fee is not required if your license was revoked for operating without insurance or if
you were issued a license with conditions or restricted uses.
After the following revocations, you must pay a civil penalty to DMV before
your application for a new license can be accepted:
If you are convicted of one or more traffic violations resulting in six points in
any 18-month period, you will be required to pay $100 each year for the next three
years. For each additional point you receive during that period, you will be required
to pay another $25 per point every year for three years. For information about how
points are assessed, see The Point System in this chapter. This assessment applies
to motorists convicted of violations while driving motor vehicles, motorboats and
27
snowmobiles. Completion of a DMV-approved Motor Vehicle Accident Prevention
Course will not prevent or reduce the calculation of points that affect the Driver
Responsibility Assessment.
28
CHAPTER 3 Owning a Vehicle
You must be at least 16 to register a vehicle. You can title a vehicle at any age. A
new resident of the state must get a New York registration within 30 days of
establishing residence.
To Register a Vehicle
To register a vehicle, you must prove you own the vehicle or that the owner
authorizes you to register it, that the vehicle is insured, that the state and county
sales taxes are paid and provide any required odometer reading and/or damage
disclosure statement. If the ownership proofs listed below are not available from the
seller, contact any motor vehicle office or a DMV Call Center before you purchase
the vehicle.
To apply for registration, you must complete a Vehicle Registration/Title
Application (MV-82). You must also present proof of name (6 points) and proof of
date of birth. For additional information see Registering A Vehicle In New York State
(MV-82.1), available from the DMV Internet Office, from a DMV Call Center, and at
any motor vehicle office. When your vehicle is registered, you will get vehicle plates,
29
a registration document and a registration sticker for the windshield or vehicle
plates. If you purchased the vehicle from someone other than a New York State
registered dealership, you will also receive a 10-day inspection extension sticker on
request when you register the vehicle. You must then have the vehicle inspected
within 10 days from the date of registration. It should have a valid inspection sticker
if you purchased the vehicle from a New York State registered dealer. The dealer
must have the vehicle inspected within 30 days before it sells the vehicle to you.
When you purchase a new or used vehicle from a dealer registered with the
DMV, the dealer can register the vehicle for you and give you a temporary registration
and, if you need them, new vehicle plates. The dealer can charge a processing fee for
this service. It can also charge registration, vehicle plate and title fees.
If your vehicle is a 1973 or newer model, your title certificate will be mailed to
you from Albany several weeks after the vehicle is registered.
Proof of Ownership
If you purchase your vehicle from a New York State registered dealer, the proof
of ownership for a new vehicle will be a Manufacturers Certificate of Origin (MCO)
and a dealers Certificate of Sale (MV-50). For a used 1973 or newer vehicle, proof
of ownership is the previous owners Certificate of Title (MV-999), the correct
odometer and salvage disclosure statement and the dealers Certificate of Sale
(MV-50). For a used 1972 or older vehicle, proof of ownership is the dealers
Certificate of Sale (MV-50) and the previous owners transferable registration
signed over to the dealer.
If the dealership does not register the vehicle for you, make sure it gives
you the ownership documents listed above and a completed Application for
Registration/Title (MV-82) signed by the dealers representative. Examine the
ownership documents carefully before closing the sale.
If you purchase a used vehicle from a dealer registered outside New York State
the proof of ownership is the title certificate or transferable registration signed over
to the dealer by the previous owner, plus the bill of sale and/or invoice from the
dealer and other proofs from the dealer.
For a used vehicle purchased from a private seller the proof of ownership is
the Certificate of Title (MV-999), or a transferable registration for 1972 or older
models, signed over to you. The seller must complete and you must acknowledge
with your signature, the correct odometer and damage disclosure statements.
Before you accept the title certificate from any seller, check the front of the title
for the names and addresses of lien holders. A lien indicates the current owner
owes money on a loan for the vehicle. If a lien is listed on the title, ask the seller to
give you proof the lien has been paid in most cases, it is an official lien release
from the lender. If proof is not provided and the loan has not been paid, the lien
holder could repossess the vehicle.
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A motor vehicle office will not accept a title certificate if the correct odometer
or damage disclosure statement is not completed, or if information on the title is
adjusted, erased or canceled. This includes any name or signature.
Disclosure Statements
If you purchase a vehicle eight model years old or newer, the DMV will
NOT register your vehicle or issue you a new title certificate unless the seller
has completed, and you have signed, both the odometer and the damage
disclosure statements on the Certificate of Title (MV-999). These statements
indicate whether the new title certificate should be described as Rebuilt
Salvage. This is explained in the DMV publications Let the Buyer Be Aware
(C-18) and Q & A About Your Vehicle Title (C-19).
If you purchase a vehicle 10 model years old or newer, make sure the private
seller has completed the odometer statement on the back of the Certificate of
Title (MV-999). The damage disclosure statement is not required for vehicles
nine model years old or older. As buyer, you must confirm the odometer
statement as shown on the title certificate by writing your initials next to the
odometer box on the title certificate. Compare the odometer statement on
the title certificate with the odometer reading in the vehicle.
IMPORTANT: The DMV must examine every vehicle described as Rebuilt Salvage,
OR SIMILAR WORDS, for stolen parts before the vehicle can be registered or titled.
If you are to purchase a vehicle that is registered or titled out-of-state, contact a
DMV Call Center for more information.
When you purchase a vehicle from a New York State registered dealer, the
dealer collects the sales tax.
If you are to purchase a vehicle from someone besides a NYS registered dealer,
get a Statement of Transaction - Sale or Gift of Motor Vehicle (DTF-802), available
at any motor vehicle office, from a DMV Call Center and from the DMV Web site
dmv.ny.gov. This form certifies the purchase price and determines the sales tax you
must pay when you register the vehicle. One side of the form must be completed and
signed by the buyer. The other side must be signed by the seller if the selling price is
below fair market value or if the vehicle is being given as a gift from someone who is
not a family member. If the form is not completed by the seller, you will be charged
sales tax based on the current fair market value of the vehicle. Bring the completed
form to a state or county motor vehicle office when you register your vehicle.
Proof of Insurance
When you purchase vehicle liability insurance, the insurance agent or broker
gives you two insurance identification cards. The name(s) and vehicle identification
31
number (VIN) on these cards must exactly match the information on the
registration application. You must present one card when you register your vehicle.
Keep the second card with the vehicle.
No-fault auto insurance is issued in New York State. For information about
no-fault insurance contact the NYS Department of Insurance, Agency Building 1,
Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12257.
Fees
Registrations for most vehicles less than 18,000 pounds (8,165 kg) maximum
gross weight are valid for two years, and fees are based on vehicle weight. There are
also vehicle plate and title fees.
By law, registration fees cannot be refunded if you use the vehicle plates or
registration sticker on your vehicle even for one day. However, if your vehicle plates
and registration sticker are returned not used within 60 days after you register your
vehicle, you can receive a full refund, minus a processing fee. You may receive a
refund of the fee for the second year of a two-year registration, minus a processing
fee, if you use the plates and registration only during the first year. Make sure to get
a DMV Universal Receipt (FS6T) to turn in your plates.
If you transfer a registration from one vehicle to a replacement vehicle, you will
receive credit for the remaining part of your current registration. This credit cannot
be applied to other vehicles registered to you.
REGISTRATION RENEWAL
Most registrations are renewed every two years. Approximately 45 to 60 days
before your registration will expire, you should receive a renewal reminder in the
mail. If you changed your address and did not notify the DMV, you will not receive
the reminder. If you did not answer three or more parking tickets, or if your
registration is suspended or revoked, you will not receive the reminder. Allow two
weeks to process and deliver the registration. You are responsible to know when
your registration expires and to renew it on time. This is true even if you do not get
a reminder in the mail.
If the expiration date falls on a weekend or legal state holiday, your registration
is automatically extended to midnight of the next business day. Make sure you
maintain liability insurance on your vehicle during the extension period.
32
If you have not received a renewal notice, you may be able to renew your
registration
Enclose a check or money order for the correct fee, payable to the
Commissioner of Motor Vehicles. If you do not know the exact fee you must pay,
you can determine the fee through a work page at the DMV Web site or contact a
DMV Call Center. Make sure to include your insurance card with your renewal
application if your insurance company has changed and you have not responded
to a DMV Insurance Inquiry Letter.
Allow two weeks to receive your registration renewal. If you do not receive it
after two weeks, contact a DMV Call Center or visit any state or county motor vehicle
office. Allow more time for overseas mail.
If your name has changed and you have not notified the DMV, you must visit a
DMV office and show proofs of your identity. For more information, contact a DMV
Call Center.
Online at the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov. Online registration renewal requires
that you have not changed your address or insurance company, and that the
registration is for a passenger car, small commercial truck or a motorcycle that is
not off the road. Your registration fee, and any related fees, will be displayed on the
computer screen. In three quick steps, you can renew your registration online and
use your credit card for payment. Your renewal will be automatically processed and
mailed to you. Allow two weeks for delivery.
In person at a state or county motor vehicle office: You must complete and
submit a Vehicle Registration/Title Application (MV-82). Note: An application
brought into an office by a second party (someone who is not the registrant)
must be accompanied by the original New York State license/permit/non-driver
identification card for the second party and either the original or a photocopy for
the registrant. This includes spouses (husbands and wives). The application must
be signed by the registrant, not the person who brings the form into the office.
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Insurance
If you receive a letter from DMV that asks about your vehicle insurance, read it
carefully and respond as directed in the letter.
Motorcycles must be insured, but you are not required to turn in the vehicle
plate when your motorcycle insurance is discontinued or expires.
INSPECTION
Most vehicles sold in New York State must be inspected within 30 days of the
date of transfer or sale and must have a certificate of inspection before delivery. If
you purchase a vehicle from someone who is not a NYS dealer, you must have the
vehicle inspected within 10 days after you register it. Make sure to request a Ten-
Day Time Extension for Motor Vehicle Inspection (VS-1077). If a person moves to
NYS, an inspection certificate that was issued before is valid until it expires or one
year from the date it was issued, whichever occurs first.
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Under some conditions, vehicles sold at retail are exempt from the inspection
requirement. These conditions are: transfer to a welfare to work program; transfer
of a chassis; transfer of a vehicle through factory direct delivery; transfer of a vehicle
for registration in another state or country; transfer of a scrap vehicle; and transfer of
a vehicle to a long-term lessee (lease buyout).
After inspection, the vehicle inspector will issue a sticker for the vehicle to
prove it has passed inspection. If your vehicle did not pass, the inspector will give
you a rejection notice. In most cases, your vehicle must be repaired to meet
standards and must be inspected again. A vehicle that is subject to a high enhanced
or OBD II emissions inspection that fails a first inspection can qualify for a waiver.
An attempt must be made to repair the malfunction and the cost for repairs must
be at least $450. Many gasoline-powered vehicles (except motorcycles) must be
inspected for exhaust emissions during the safety inspection. Exceptions are
gasoline-powered vehicles that are 26 or more model years old, or less than two
model years old, or registered as historic. Those vehicles are subject to a safety
inspection only.
35
If you have a complaint against one of these businesses, first try to resolve it
with the management. If that fails, call (518) 474-8943 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:15
p.m. weekdays. You can also write to Vehicle Safety Services, DMV, Bureau of
Consumer and Facility Services, Box 2700-ESP, Albany, N.Y., 12220-0700. By Law, the
DMV can receive a repair shop complaint only within 90 days or 3,000 miles (4,828
km) of the vehicle repairs, whichever comes first.
For more information, see publications Know Your Rights in Auto Repair (C-17)
and Let the Buyer Be Aware (C-18) and New York State Vehicle Safety/Emissions
Inspections Program for Cars and Light Trucks (C-50), available from the DMV Web
site dmv.ny.gov.
36
PART
2 RULES OF THE ROAD
SIGNS
Traffic signs tell you about traffic rules, special hazards, where you are, how to
get where you are going and where services are available.
The shape and color of traffic signs give indications to the type of information
they provide:
REGULATION SIGNS normally are white rectangles with black letters or symbols,
but some are different shapes, and some can use red letters or symbols.
WARNING SIGNS normally are yellow and diamond-shaped, with black letters
or symbols.
Know the signs shown below and what they indicate. You will be asked about
them on your written test.
Here are descriptions of common traffic signs and what they indicate.
REGULATION SIGNS:
Stop Sign
37
Crosswalk Lines under the Pavement Markings section of this chapter.) If there is
no stop line or crosswalk, you must stop before you enter the intersection, at the point
nearest the intersection that gives you a view of traffic on the intersecting roadway.
Yield Sign
Some regulation signs have a red circle with a slash over a symbol. This
indicates that an action, like a right turn, is not allowed or that some vehicles are
restricted from the road. Rectangular white signs with black or red letters or symbols
are indications to be alert for special rules.
WARNING SIGNS:
MEANING: People are at work on or near the roadway and traffic can be controlled
by a flag person. A work area speed limit as low as 25 MPH (40 km/h) can be posted.
Even if no speed limit is provided, you must drive at a reduced speed through the
work zone and you must always obey the flag persons. These illustrations show
some signals a flag person will use. Know and obey them.
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STOP PROCEED SLOW
DESTINATION SIGNS:
Route Signs
COLOR: Varied.
SERVICE SIGNS:
TRAFFIC SIGNALS
Traffic Lights
Traffic lights are normally red, yellow and green from the top to bottom or left
to right. At some intersections, there are lone red, yellow or green lights.
Some traffic lights are steady, others flash. Some are round, and some are
arrows. State law requires that if the traffic lights or controls are out of
service or does not operate correctly when you approach an intersection,
you must come to a stop as you would for a stop sign. You must then
continue according to the rules of right-of-way, unless you are told to continue by a
traffic officer.
39
Here is what different traffic lights indicate:
STEADY RED: Stop. Do not go until the light is green. If a green arrow is
shown with the red light, you can go only toward the arrow and only if the
intersection is clear.
You can make a right turn at a steady red light after you come to a full stop and
yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. You can make a left turn
at a steady red light when you turn from a one-way road into another one-way road
after you come to a full stop and yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic and
pedestrians.
You cannot make a turn at a red light if there is a NO TURN ON RED sign
posted or another sign, signal or pavement marking prevents the turn. You are
not allowed to turn on a red light in New York City unless a sign that permits it
is posted.
FLASHING RED: Means the same as a STOP sign: Stop, yield the
right-of-way, and go when it is safe.
RED ARROW: Do not go in the direction of the arrow until the red
arrow light is off and a green light or arrow light goes on. A right or
left turn on red is not permitted at a red arrow.
GREEN ARROW: You can go in the direction of the arrow, but you
must yield the right-of-way to other traffic at the intersection as
required by law (see Chapter 5) .
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FLASHING YELLOW X: This lane can only
be used for a left turn.
PAVEMENT MARKINGS
Lines and symbols on the roadway divide lanes and tell you when you can pass
other vehicles or change lanes. They also tell you which lanes to use for turns and
where you must stop for signs or traffic signals. The arrows on these illustrations
show the direction of traffic.
Lines that separate lanes of traffic that moves in the same direction are white.
Lines that separate traffic that moves in opposite directions are yellow. There may be
two lines between lanes and lines can be solid or broken. Read Chapter 6 for the
rules on how to pass other vehicles.
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One solid line: You can pass other vehicles or
change lanes, but you can only do so when
obstructions in the road or traffic conditions
make it necessary.
Stop and Crosswalk Lines: At an intersection controlled by a STOP sign, YIELD sign
or traffic light, there
can be a white stop
line painted across
the lane, and/or two
parallel lines painted
across the road. This
is a crosswalk. When
required to stop
because of a sign or
light, you must stop
before you reach the stop line, if there is one, or the crosswalk. You need only stop at
a stop line or crosswalk if required to by a light, sign or traffic officer, or to yield to a
pedestrian, in-line skater or scooter at a marked or unmarked crosswalk. (See
Pedestrians in Chapter 11).
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TRAFFIC OFFICERS
Directions given by traffic officers take precedence over signs, signals or
pavement markings. If a traffic officer signals you to stop at a green light, for
example, you must stop. If an officer signals you to drive through a red light or
stop sign, you must do it.
Among the persons authorized to direct traffic are police officers, fire police,
highway work area flag persons and school crossing persons.
QUESTIONS
Before you move on to Chapter 5, make sure you can identify the signs in this
chapter and know what they mean. Also, make sure you can answer these questions:
43
CHAPTER 5 Intersections and Turns
Most traffic crashes occur at intersections when a driver makes a turn. Many
occur in large parking lots that are open to public use, like at shopping centers. To
prevent this type of crash, you must understand the right-of-way rules and how to
make correct turns.
RIGHT-OF-WAY
Traffic signs, signals and pavement markings do not always resolve traffic
conflicts. A green light, for example, does not resolve the conflict of when a car
turns left at an intersection while an approaching car goes straight through the
intersection. The right-of-way rules help resolve these conflicts. They tell you who
goes first and who must wait in different conditions.
You must also yield to traffic headed toward you when you turn left into a driveway,
parking lot or other area, even if there are no signs or signals that control the turn.
For any left turn, the law requires you to yield to any traffic headed toward you that is
close enough to be a hazard. The decision about when traffic is too close takes experience
and judgment. If you have any concern, wait for traffic to pass before you turn left.
44
drivers stop at STOP signs at the same time and they are at right angles, the
driver on the left must yield the right-of-way to the driver on the right.
Example: You are stopped at a stop sign and you are going to go straight through the
intersection. A driver on the cross road has stopped at a stop sign on your right and
is going to go straight. You must yield the right-of-way to the other driver.
4 A vehicle that enters a roadway from a driveway, private road or another put
that is not a roadway, must stop and yield the right-of-way to traffic on the
roadway and to pedestrians.
Example: You leave a parking lot and turn right when you enter a street. A vehicle
approaches from your left. You must stop and wait for the vehicle to pass before
you enter the street. If you were to turn left, you would have to yield to vehicles that
approach from both directions. If a pedestrian walked across the parking lot exit,
you would have to wait for that person to go across.
4 You cannot enter an intersection if traffic is backed up on the other side and
you cannot get completely through the intersection. Wait until traffic ahead
clears, so you do not block the intersection.
4 A driver who enters a traffic circle or rotary must yield the right-of-way to
drivers already in the circle.
EMERGENCY VEHICLES
You must yield the right-of-way to fire, ambulance, police and other authorized
emergency vehicles when they respond to emergencies. They will display lights that
are flashing red, red and blue or red and white and sound a siren or air-horn. When
you hear or see an emergency vehicle heading toward your vehicle from any
direction, safely pull over immediately to the right edge of the road and stop. Wait
until the emergency vehicle passes before you drive on. If you are in an intersection,
drive out of it before you pull over.
You must pull over and stop for an emergency vehicle even if it is headed
toward you in the opposite lane of a two-lane roadway.
If you hear a siren or air-horn close by but do not know exactly where the
emergency vehicle is, you can safely pull over to the right-side edge of the road and
stop until you are sure it is not headed toward you.
45
unpredictable. The driver can legally exceed the speed limit, pass red lights and
STOP or YIELD signs, go the wrong way on one-way streets and turn in directions
not normally allowed. Although emergency vehicle drivers are required to be
careful, be cautious when an emergency vehicle heads toward you.
TURNS
Always signal before you turn or change lanes. It is important that other
highway users know your intentions. The law requires you to signal a turn or lane
change with your turn lights or hand signals at least 100 feet (30 m) ahead. A good
safety tip is, when possible, to signal your intention to turn before you begin to brake
or make the turn. The required hand signals are shown.
46
RIGHT TURN:
47
LEFT TURN FROM TWO-WAY ROAD
INTO ONE-WAY ROAD:
U-TURNS
A U-turn is any turn you make so you can proceed in the opposite direction.
Do not try a U-turn on a highway unless absolutely necessary. If you must turn
around, use a parking lot, driveway or other area, and, if possible, enter the roadway
as you move forward, not backing up.
You can make a U-turn only from the left part of the lane nearest to the
centerline of the roadway, never from the right lane. Unless signs tell you otherwise,
you can make a U-turn when you get permission to proceed by a green arrow left-
turn traffic signal, provided it is allowed and you yield to other traffic.
You cannot make a U-turn near the top of a hill, a curve or another location put
where other drivers cannot see your vehicle from 500 feet (150 m) away in either
direction. U-turns are also illegal in business districts of New York City and where
NO U-TURN signs are provided. You can never make a U-turn on a limited access
expressway, even if paths connect your side of the expressway with the other side. In
addition, it is prohibited for a vehicle to make a u-turn in a school zone.
48
To make a three-point turn:
2. Turn left, go across the road so you come to a stop while you face the left curb or
edge of the road.
3. Look again for traffic. Turn your steering wheel as far to the right as possible, then
reverse the vehicle to the right curb or edge of the road.
4. Stop, check again for other traffic, then pull away from the curb.
QUESTIONS
Before you go on to Chapter 6, make sure you can answer these questions:
49
CHAPTER 6 How to Pass
The law requires that we drive on the right side of the road. When we are allowed
to pass other vehicles, we usually pass on the left. You are permitted to pass on the
right only in certain circumstances and it must be done only when necessary and safe.
When you pass other vehicles or change lanes to keep away from hazards, do so
with caution and only when necessary. You must not exceed the speed limit to pass
another vehicle.
When you pass a motorcycle, remember to give the motorcycle the same full-
lane width as other vehicles are allowed. Never move into the same lane space as a
motorcycle, even if the lane is wide and the motorcycle is to one side.
The law requires you to use turn signals or hand signals at least 100 feet (30 m)
before you make a lane change. You must never pass a vehicle that has stopped at a
crosswalk to allow a pedestrian to go across.
50
When you pass, move completely into the left lane. Before you return to the
right lane, signal and look at your interior rear-view mirror and make sure you can
see the front bumper of the vehicle you passed. Look quickly over your right
shoulder to make sure that you can see at least several feet of pavement between
your vehicle and the one you passed. Then return to the right lane.
Before you pass on the right on multi-lane roads like expressways, make sure
you check your mirrors, use the correct signals for the lane change and look over
your right shoulder for other vehicles. After you pass, make sure to quickly look over
your left shoulder and signal before you return to the left lane.
BEING PASSED
If another vehicle passes you on the left, decrease speed slightly and keep to
the right. When the vehicle has safely passed and is ahead of you, continue your
normal speed.
If you find that you are being passed on the right by many vehicles, you should
move into the right lane and allow them to pass you on the left.
51
SCHOOL BUSES
When a stopped school bus flashes its red light(s), traffic that approaches from
either direction, even in front of the school and in school parking lots, must stop
before it reaches the bus. You should stop at least 20 feet (6 m) away from the bus.
You can identify this bus by a SCHOOL BUS sign, the red lights on the top and its
unique yellow-orange color.
Before a school bus stops to load or discharge passengers, the driver will usually
flash yellow warning lights. When you see them, decrease speed and be prepared to stop.
When you stop for a school bus, you can not drive again until the red lights stop
flashing or when the bus driver or a traffic officer signals that you can proceed. This
law applies on all roadways in New York State. You must stop for a school bus even if
it is on the opposite side of a divided highway.
After you stop for a school bus, look for children along the side of the road.
Drive slowly until you have passed them.
Safety Tip: Most school bus-related deaths and injuries occur while children cross
the street after being discharged from the bus, not in collisions that involve school buses.
The fine when you pass a stopped school bus ranges from a minimum of $250
for a first violation to a maximum of $1,000 for three violations in three years. If you
are convicted of three of these violations in three years, your driver license will be
revoked for a minimum of six months.
52
QUESTIONS
Before you go on to Chapter 7, make sure you can answer these questions:
4 Under most conditions, on which side can you pass another vehicle that is
headed the same direction?
4 What should you do before you pass another vehicle?
4 What should you see in your rear-view mirror before you attempt to return to
the right lane after you pass a vehicle on the left?
4 Under what conditions can you pass a vehicle on the right?
4 When can you pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk to allow a pedestrian to
go across?
4 What action should you take when another vehicle passes you on the left?
4 What do yellow lights going on and off on a school bus indicate?
4 What do red lights going on and off on a school bus indicate?
53
CHAPTER 7 Parallel Parking
Parallel parking takes skill and is part of every road test. You must know
where parking is illegal and what NO PARKING, NO STANDING and NO STOPPING
signs indicate.
HOW TO PARK
Many motorists consider parallel parking the most difficult part of driving. But
practice will teach you how to back up correctly and to judge distances and angles.
4. Bring your wheels straight and pull forward. Allow room for the vehicles ahead
and behind you. In your final parking position, your wheels must be no more than
one foot (30 cm) from the curb.
To get nearer to the curb, alternately pull forward and back up, and turn the
steering wheel first toward the curb and then quickly straight again.
54
After parking, remember that you must not open the door on the road side if it
will interfere with bicyclists and other traffic.
If there is a curb, turn your steering wheel completely away from it if your
vehicle faces up the hill, or completely toward the curb if your vehicle faces down
the hill. If your vehicle begins to move, the wheels should stop the vehicle at the
curb and prevent a move down the hill. This method works best where the curb is
high. If there is no curb or a low one, turn your wheels completely toward the
nearest side of the road no matter what direction your vehicle faces. If your vehicle
does start to move, it will move away from the street and traffic.
Six steps to enter safely into traffic: 1) Turn your head to look over your
right shoulder and check through the rear-window for pedestrians, bicyclist,
motorcyclists and other vehicles that can become a hazard; 2) use your interior
rear-view mirror to help keep an eye on hazards behind your vehicle; 3) signal your
intentions to move from your parking space into traffic; 4) check your side mirrors
for oncoming vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclist, in-line skaters, motorcyclists and
other highway users; 5) turn your head to look over your left shoulder out through
the rear-window and begin to slowly drive forward. Make sure you can avoid the
vehicle parked ahead when you enter traffic; 6) turn your head and look over your
left shoulder to look through the rear-window, drive into the traffic lane when it is
safe to do so.
PARKING REGULATIONS
What people understand as parking is legally divided into three categories:
parking, standing and stopping.
A NO STANDING sign means you can only make a temporary stop to load or
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discharge passengers.
A NO STOPPING sign means you can stop only to obey a traffic sign, signal or
officer or to prevent conflicts with other vehicles.
Besides parking, standing and stopping rules, there are statewide rules not
always indicated by signs:
4 In front of a driveway.
4 Within 20 feet (6 m) of a crosswalk at an intersection.
4 Within 30 feet (10 m) of a traffic light, STOP sign or YIELD sign.
4 Within 20 feet (6 m) of a fire station driveway or within 75 feet (23 m) on the
opposite side of the road.
4 Along a curb that cut, lowered or made for access to the sidewalk.
4 You can not park your vehicle within 50 feet (15 m) of a railroad crossing.
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reserved for the disabled unless it has vehicle plates for the disabled issued by the
DMV, a New York State Parking Permit for the Disabled (MV-664) issued by a city,
town, county or village or a similar vehicle plate or permit issued by another state.
The vehicle must be in operation to transport the disabled person described in the
registration or permit. This law applies to spaces reserved and provided by local
ordinance on streets and highways and those held for special use by state law in
shopping centers that have five or more stores and 20 or more off-street public
parking spaces.
For more information about parking for the disabled, and how to qualify and
apply for a vehicle plate or parking permit, see Parking for People With Disabilities
(C-34). This publication is available from the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov.
Reserved spaces must be marked with signs like the one shown, and also can
be designated with pavement markings. Do not park in the spaces with diagonal
stripes next to reserved parking areas. These spaces are needed to give access to
those with wheelchairs and vehicles with special equipment.
The fines for parking violations on a street are set by municipalities. Unless a
municipality sets higher penalties, the fine for a shopping center violation is $50 to
$75 for a first offense and $75 to $150 for a second offense within two years in the
same municipality. A mandatory surcharge of $30 will be added to each penalty.
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QUESTIONS
Before you go on to Chapter 8, make sure you can answer these questions:
4 After you have parallel parked, how near to the curb must your vehicle be?
4 May you open a door on the road side of your vehicle if no there is no
oncoming traffic?
4 Before you leave a parking space, what should you do?
4 What does a NO STOPPING sign mean?
4 Can you stop to load or drop off passengers at a NO STANDING or
NO PARKING sign?
4 May you park on a crosswalk in the middle of a block?
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PART
3 SAFE DRIVING TIPS
Most drivers are good drivers. But even the best drivers make errors now and
then. Equipment fails, weather conditions can be bad, and some drivers ignore
traffic laws or drive in an erratic manner. To prevent making errors or being involved
in a crash because of someone elses error, learn to drive in a defensive manner:
Traffic conditions change continuously. Always scan the road ahead. Do not
use the road or even the vehicle ahead as your only points of focus. Look ahead so
you can prevent, or decrease, possible problems.
Keep your eyes moving, notice what is happening at the sides of the road, and
check behind you through your mirrors every few seconds.
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Anticipate errors by other drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians and think about
what you will do if an error occurs. Do not assume that a driver who approaches a
STOP or YIELD sign on a side road is actually going to stop or yield. It is better to
assume the other driver will not stop.
This law requires every driver to exercise care to avoid colliding with an
authorized emergency or hazard vehicle that is parked, stopped or standing on the
shoulder or any portion of the highway with its emergency lights or one or more
amber hazard lights activated. Drivers must reduce speed on all roads when
encountering such vehicles, but on parkways, interstates and other controlled
access roads with multiple lanes, drivers are further required to move from the lane
adjacent to the emergency or hazard vehicle unless traffic or other hazards prevent
doing so safely. Violations of this law are punishable as a moving violation.
To prevent road rage, it is sometimes better not to make eye contact with
another driver. The other driver can take this as being challenged.
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Drive to the nearest police station.
4 If an aggressive driver is involved in a crash, stop a safe distance from
the crash scene. When the police arrive, report the driving behavior
you saw.
ROAD RAGE
What is road rage? Road rage is an angry, hostile state, which increases into
violent criminal actions or attempts of violent action that result from the operation
of a motor vehicle. Road rage can include behavior to provoke others or to make
them fearful.
Aggressive driving is not road rage. However, aggressive driving can become
road rage. Aggressive driving generally involves the violation of a traffic safety law,
while road rage involves the breaking of a criminal law.
Who can become road raged? It could happen to anyone when our irritation or
anger with others leads us to behavior that is a threat to others. We become a threat
to ourselves and to the safety and lives of others on and near the road or highways.
To endanger, threaten or assault another person are illegal. They can result in severe
penalties that include fines, imprisonment and court-ordered probation. They can
also mean revocation and suspension of a driver license.
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Road rage can include:
Aggressive driving and road rage can lead to revoked or suspended driver
licenses, problems between family members and friends, loss of employment and
legal problems.
Many drivers do not recognize when their own aggressive driving or road rage
is affecting their ability to drive safely. State law requires every DMV-approved
accident prevention course to address the hazards and dangers of road rage. For
information about DMV-approved accident prevention courses, see the publication
Point & Insurance Reduction Program (C-32A), available from the DMV Internet
Office. You can also contact one of the program sponsors. Information available at
any state or county motor vehicle office.
SPEED
You must obey the speed limit. If no limit is posted, drive no more than 55 mph
(88 km/h). Often, it is common sense to keep your actual speed below the posted limit.
For example, the legal limit on a slippery or fogged-in expressway might be 55 mph
(88 km/h), or even 65 mph (100 km/h), but the safe speed to drive would be much
lower. Even if you were to drive at 50 mph (80 km/h) on that hazardous highway, a
police officer could ticket you for a speed not reasonable for the conditions.
To keep a smooth traffic flow, some highways also have minimum speed limits.
If you drive slower than the minimum speed you can halt the traffic flow and create
a dangerous condition. Even if there is no minimum speed limit, those driving too
slow can be as dangerous as those who drive too fast.
Know that some cities have speed limits less than 55 mph (88 km/h) that is not
always posted. For example, the speed limit is 25 mph (48 km/h) in New York City
unless another limit is posted.
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ALLOW YOURSELF SPACE
Four of every 10 crashes involve rear-end collisions, normally because a person
is following too closely (tailgating). Leave enough room between your vehicle and
the one ahead so you can stop safely if the other vehicle stops suddenly. Brake early
and gently when you prepare to stop or turn. It gives drivers behind you plenty of
warning that you plan to decrease your speed.
For a good space cushion, use the two-second rule: Select an object near or
above the road ahead like a sign, tree or overpass. As the vehicle ahead passes it,
count slowly, one thousand one, one thousand two. If you reach the same object
before you finish the count, you are following too closely. In bad weather and when
following large trucks, increase the count to at least three or four seconds for
additional space.
If a driver follows you too closely (tailgates), move to another lane if possible
or reduce speed and pull off the road to let the driver go by. Make sure to signal
when you drive off the road and when you return to it. Do not press your brakes to
warn the driver behind you this could make a difficult condition become even
more dangerous.
In case you must change lanes quickly or pull over to avoid a hazard, leave
some escape room to your left and right.
New York is a primary enforcement state. A law enforcement officer can issue
a traffic ticket for failure to wear a seat belt. This law also applies to visitors from
outside New York State.
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up to $50 if they fail to buckle up.
4 For vehicles driven by persons with a Class-DJ learner permit or
a Class-DJ or Limited Class DJ driver license, every occupant, no matter the
age or seating position, must correctly use a safety restraint.
4 The driver must make sure that each passenger under 16 obeys the law. The
driver can face a fine of $25 to $100 and receive three penalty points on his
driver license for each violation.
4 Seat belt use is not required in taxis or livery vehicles, emergency vehicles,
1964 or older vehicles or by passengers in buses (except school buses; seat
belt use can required by a school district). Rural Letter Carriers are also
exempt while they deliver mail.
Every passenger under 16 must use a safety restraint. If less than age 4, persons
must be correctly secured in a government approved child safety seat that is attached
to a vehicle by a safety belt or universal anchorage (LATCH) system. A child less than
4 who weighs more than 40 pounds can be restrained in a booster seat with a lap and
shoulder belt. A child of age 4, 5, 6 or 7 must use a booster seat with lap and shoulder
belt or a child safety seat (The child and safety restraint system must meet the height
and weight recommendations of the restraint manufacturer.)
Exception: A child more than 4 feet 9 inches or more than 100 pounds is allowed
to use a seat belt that has both a lap belt and a shoulder harness. If the seat belt does
not fit correctly, the child must use a booster seat with a lap and shoulder belt.
When you drive, you must make sure each person in your vehicle wears a seat
belt. During a crash, a person without a seat belt becomes a flying object and a
danger to each person in the vehicle.
For more information, see publications NYS Seat Belt Law (C-1) and Granting
Medical Exemptions for Safety Belt Use (C-58), available from the DMV Web site
dmv.ny.gov.
4 For added protection, adjust your vehicle head rest, lock the doors and do
not keep loose, heavy objects in the passenger area. Put them in the trunk.
4 Air bags are meant to work WITH seat belts, not to replace them. An air bag
protects a front-seat occupant in a head-on crash by inflating on impact and
providing a cushion so the occupant does not collide with the steering
wheel, dashboard or windshield. The combination of a seat belt and an
air bag offers maximum protection, partly because they help the driver
maintain control of the vehicle and help prevent secondary collisions.
4 Air bags engage (expand quickly) from the steering wheel and/or dashboard.
Most adults who are correctly fastened are safer in a vehicle with air bags, but
the pressure of an air bag as it opens could injure those who sit too close to it.
You should sit with at least 10 inches between the center of your chest and the
cover of the air bag. Place your hands on opposite sides of the steering wheel,
at the 3 and 9 clock positions, to keep them away if the air bag engages.
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IMPORTANT: NEVER PUT AN INFANT IN A REAR-FACING CHILD SAFETY SEAT
IN THE FRONT SEAT OF A VEHICLE THAT HAS A PASSENGER AIR BAG.
4 Some signs can indicate a detour that allows you to avoid the work zone. If
you know where a work zone is ahead, you should try to use a different route.
4 As you enter a work zone, flashing signs or signs with arrows or that warn
lane closed ahead mean you should merge your vehicle into the correct
lane when it is safe. Do not speed to the end of the closed lane and try to get
into the other lane. If you move to the correct lane at first notice, you will
drive in a calmer, more efficient, and safe manner.
4 Decrease your speed when a sign indicates: Road Work 1,500 feet, that
means your car, with a speed of 60 miles per hour, will get there in 17 seconds.
4 The rear-end collision is the most common crash in a work zone. To avoid
being involved in one, it helps to keep a braking distance of two seconds or
more between you and the vehicle in front of you. (See Allowing Yourself
Space, page 72) Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and traffic
barriers, trucks, construction equipment and workers.
4 Some work zones are not stationary, like when workers paint lines, patch
roads or mow. These areas travel the roadway as the work is finished. Workers
can be close even if you do not see them immediately after the warning signs.
Obey the signs until you pass the one that states the work zone has ended.
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HOW TO DRIVE THROUGH A ROUNDABOUT
A roundabout is a round intersection with a small diameter that makes
drivers decrease speed, normally to 30 mph or less. Studies show a roundabout
can reduce the number and severity of accidents at an intersection, compared to
intersections controlled by stop signs or traffic signals. Roundabouts, or rotaries,
are now more common in New York State. More information about driving safely
through a roundabout can be found on the NYS Department of Transportation
Internet site dot.ny.gov/roundabouts.
Symptoms of Fatigue
Researchers have found the following symptoms to be associated with drowsy driving:
4 Your eyes close or go out of focus by themselves.
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4 To keep your head up is difficult.
4 You continue to yawn.
4 Your thoughts wander and are disconnected.
4 You do not remember driving the last few miles.
4 You drift between lanes, tailgate or miss traffic signs.
4 You must jerk the car back into the lane.
4 You have drifted off the road and hit the rumble strips, which produce a loud
noise and vibrations.
Effective Countermeasures
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Actions for the Drowsy Driver
4 Recognize that you are close to sleep and can not calculate when sleep
may occur.
4 Not depend on the radio, open window or other tricks to keep you awake.
4 Find a safe place to stop for a break in response to symptoms of fatigue.
4 Pull off into a safe area from traffic and take a brief nap (15 to 45 minutes).
4 Drink coffee or another source of caffeine to promote short-term alertness if
needed. (It takes about 30 minutes for caffeine to enter the bloodstream.)
NOTE: See Chapter 9 for more information about the dangers of driving under the
influence of alcohol and other drugs.
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VEHICLE CONDITION
Vehicles must be inspected at least one time each year, but that does not mean it is
the only time you should have safety equipment checked. Follow your owners manual
for routine maintenance. Have problems corrected by a qualified mechanic as soon as
possible. Do not wait until mechanical problems cause breakdowns or crashes.
Pay special attention to the maintenance and repair of the brakes, steering
mechanism, lights, tires and horn. Depend on your owner manual and an
experienced mechanic as keys to a safe vehicle.
Here are some common problems, and some equipment checks you can do:
4 BRAKES - Brakes that pull to one side may be wet or may need to be
adjusted or repaired. If wet, you can dry them riding the pedal lightly. If this
does not help, have your brakes checked by a mechanic. If you notice any
change in the brake performance, have them checked immediately.
4 STEERING - There should not be much free movement in the steering
wheel. If your vehicle has power steering, check the fluid level periodically.
A noise like a whine when you make a sharp turn can indicate a problem.
4 LIGHTS - Keep your lights clean and free of dirt, snow and ice. Broken lenses
can cause dangerous glare for other drivers, so replace them as soon as you
can. Make sure headlights are adjusted correctly to give you the best view of
the road.
4 TIRES - The law requires that your tires have at least 232nds of an inch
(.16 cm) of tread. Most tires for passenger cars and light trucks have
indicators called wear bars that show across the tire grooves when the
minimum tread depth is reached. It is also illegal to drive with tires that have
cuts down to the cords, bumps or bulges. Refer to your owner manual or a
tire store about correct tire pressure, and check it often with a reliable gauge.
4 GLASS - Keep your windows clean and clear. Replace worn wiper blades,
keep your defroster and rear window defogger in good condition and make
sure there is enough windshield fluid in the reservoir.
4 HORN - Your horn is important safety equipment that could become your
only means of warning other drivers or pedestrians of possible problems. If
the horn does not work, get it repaired as soon as possible. It should be used
properly, not to express anger at other drivers or pedestrians.
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QUESTIONS
Before you move on to Chapter 9, make sure you can answer these questions:
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CHAPTER 9 Alcohol and Other Drugs
You have probably heard the facts before driving while impaired or
intoxicated is a serious traffic safety problem in the United States. In New York
State, more than 20 percent of all highway deaths involve the use of alcohol or
other drugs. But the facts and statistics do not tell the whole story. Behind the
numbers are thousands of lives cut short, permanent or disabling injuries, and
families devastated because someone drove while under the influence of alcohol
or other drugs.
When you drink alcohol or take other drugs, safe driving is not possible.
Not every impaired or intoxicated driver causes a traffic crash, but each one is
dangerous, putting the lives of himself or herself and those sharing the road at risk.
Young persons, who have less experience with both alcohol and driving,
are at most at risk. Drivers less than 21 are approximately 5 percent of the driving
population, but 11 percent of the drivers involved in alcohol or drug-related
fatalities. This is one reason the driver license revocation penalties are more
severe for young drivers under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
Because driving under the influence is so dangerous, the penalties for alcohol
or drug-related violations are tough and enforcement is important. The chance of
apprehension and conviction are high and New York State law does not allow you to
plea bargain to an offense related to alcohol or drugs.
You do not have to look or feel intoxicated for these things to occur. The
symptoms of alcohol consumption can begin long before you become intoxicated or
even legally impaired and begin with the first drink.
As alcohol physically limits your ability to drive, it also makes you less aware of
what is happening to your safe driving abilities. It becomes difficult for you to judge
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your condition. You can gain confidence about driving, when you should not be
driving at all.
During each mile you drive, you make hundreds of decisions. Your decisions
turn into actions that keep your vehicle controlled and ensure you avoid crashes.
Alcohol makes it difficult to make correct decisions and to take the safest actions.
For example: You have just stopped at a STOP sign. You see another vehicle
approaching the intersection. You must quickly make a decision whether it is safe to
go through the intersection. Under the influence of alcohol, you are more likely to
make a wrong decision and take a chance. Your slower reaction time, and the bad
decision, could cause a crash.
OTHER DRUGS
Drugs, which include many prescription and over-the-counter medications,
can affect your ability to drive. They can have effects similar to alcohol or even
worse. If you take medication, even a remedy for colds or allergies that is not
prescribed, check the label for warnings about its effects. If you are unsure, ask
your doctor or pharmacist about driving while on the medication.
Never drink alcohol while you take other drugs. It could be dangerous, often
enhancing the effects of the alcohol and the other drug. For example, if you take one
drink when you are also using a cold remedy could affect you as much as several
drinks.
Blood alcohol content (BAC) is the percentage of alcohol in your blood and is
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normally determined by a chemical test of breath, blood, urine or saliva. A BAC of
more than .05 percent is legal evidence that you are impaired, a BAC of .08 percent
or higher is evidence of intoxication, and a BAC of .18 percent or more is evidence
of aggravated driving while intoxicated.
Many people think chemical test evidence is required to prove you were
intoxicated or impaired. However, the testimony of a police officer about the way
you drive, your appearance and behavior when arrested can provide enough
evidence to convict you, even without a chemical test.
If you are found guilty of any alcohol or drug-related violation, the court must
revoke or suspend your driver license when you are sentenced. Even if the court allows
you to continue driving for 20 days, your driver license will be taken immediately.
The BAC standards and penalties for commercial drivers are even tougher
than those indicated in this chapter. For complete information, see Section 1 of the
Commercial Drivers Manual (CDL-10).
YOUR BAC
Your blood alcohol content (BAC) depends on:
For a 150-pound male, each one of these drinks contains enough alcohol to
increase his BAC by about .02 percent. On average, it takes the body approximately
one hour to remove that much alcohol. Studies indicate that a woman will take
longer to process and remove alcohol from the blood. This can cause a higher BAC
over a longer period of time.
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.02% BAC =
OR OR OR
5 oz. glass of wine 112 oz. liquor 12 oz. (360 ml) 12 oz. (360 ml)
12% alcohol 80 proof can of beer wine cooler
5% alcohol 5% alcohol
Compared to the 150-pound male described above, your body weight can
make some difference in the BAC and the effects of alcohol. No one has immunity
to the effects of alcohol. It is a simple fact: the more you drink in a given period of
time, the higher your BAC will be and the less safe you will drive.
It takes only a few drinks to increase your BAC to levels at which it is illegal to
drive. And remember, the effects of alcohol on your ability to drive begin at even
lower BAC levels after just one drink.
Eating before or while you drink helps slow the absorption of alcohol
somewhat, but it can not prevent intoxication or impairment if you have too much to
drink.
The only method to effectively reduce your BAC is not to drink over a period of
time. Coffee, exercise and cold showers can not reduce your BAC and the effects of
alcohol. They can help you remain awake, but it can not change your BAC or make
you sober.
CHEMICAL TESTS
Chemical tests use blood, breath, urine or saliva to measure the BAC of a
person. If you are arrested for an alcohol or drug related violation, the police officer
will likely request that you submit to a chemical test (breathalyzer). Under New
Yorks Implied Consent law, when you drive a car in this state you are considered
to have given your consent to take this type of test.
Chemical test refusal is a separate issue from whether you were guilty of an
alcohol or drug-related violation. If you refuse to take the test after being arrested, your
driver license will be suspended when you are arraigned in court on the alcohol or
other drug-related charge. In addition, the fact that you refused a chemical test can be
brought up in court when you are tried on the alcohol or drug-related charge. If a DMV
hearing later confirms you refused the test, your driver license will be revoked even if
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you are found not guilty of the alcohol or other drug-related violation. For information
about driver license revocations and civil penalties for chemical test refusals, see
Chapter 2.
THE CONSEQUENCES
The table Penalties for Alcohol/Drug Related Violations describes fines,
surcharges, license penalties and possible imprisonment if you are convicted of an
alcohol or drug-related violation. Impaired or intoxicated driving can also have
other serious results.
Repeat Offenders
Drivers with repeat dangerous driving convictions in New York State face one of
the toughest licensing policies in the nation. These regulations call for:
4 Lifetime Record Review by DMV: DMV will review the lifetime record of all
drivers who apply to have a license reinstated after a revocation.
4 Truly Permanent License Revocation for Persistently Drunk & Dangerous
Drivers: After conducting a lifetime record review, DMV will deny any
application for reinstatement of a license after revocation if the applicant has:
Five or more alcohol or drug related driving convictions in his or her
lifetime, or
Three or more alcohol or drug related driving convictions in the last 25
years plus at least one other serious driving offense during that period. A
serious driving offense includes: a fatal crash, a driving-related penal law
conviction, an accumulation of 20 or more points assessed for driving
violations within the last 25 years or having two or more driving convictions
each worth five points or higher.
4 Delayed Re-Licensing, Driving Restrictions, & Interlocks for Other Drivers
with Repeated Alcohol- or Drug-Related Driving Convictions: For those
drivers seeking reinstatement of a license after revocation who have three or
four alcohol- or drug-related convictions but no serious driving offense in the
last 25 years, DMV will:
Deny their applications for five years beyond their statutory revocation
period if the applicant's license was revoked for an alcohol- or drug-
related offense; or two additional years if the applicant's license was
revoked for a reason other than an alcohol or drug related offense;
Restore the applicant's license after that additional period as a "restricted"
license limiting the applicant's driving to, for example, travel to and from
work or medical visits; and
For those drivers whose revocations stem from an alcohol-related offense,
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PENALTIES FOR ALCOHOL/DRUG RELATED VIOLATIONS
AGGRAVATED DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED
AGG-DWI (0.18 and higher Blood Alcohol Content [BAC])
NOTE: Higher fines, longer jail sentences, and increased license penalties (including lifetime revocation) may result
from a third or subsequent conviction within 10 years.
*Conviction fine only, does not include mandatory surcharge or crime victims assistance fee.
**The Department of Motor Vehicle determines when your license can be returned. Its return or reinstatement, based
on state law or regulation, is not automatic. You must reapply for your license and may have to pass a test.
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require an interlock on the vehicle driven by the applicant for five years.
4 End the Reduction of Mandatory Suspension or Revocation Periods:
Previously, repeat drunk drivers whose licenses have been revoked or
suspended could get their full driving privileges back in as little as seven
weeks by completing DMV's Impaired Driver Program. DMV's new
regulations will ensure that those drivers cannot obtain their driving
privileges until their full term of suspension or revocation has ended.
The legal purchase and possession age for beverages containing alcohol in New
York State is 21. Under the states zero tolerance law, it is a violation for a person
under 21 to drive with any BAC that can be measured (.02 to .07). After a finding of
violation is determined at a DMV hearing, the driver license will be suspended for six
months. The driver then must pay a $100 suspension termination fee and a $125 civil
penalty to be re-licensed. For a second Zero Tolerance violation, the driver license will
be revoked for at least one year or until the driver reaches 21, whichever is longer.
When you use a driver license or Non-Driver ID card as proof of age to illegally
purchase beverages that contain alcohol, state law requires the suspension of your
driver license or privilege to apply for a license.
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judge also must order an alcohol assessment for the repeat offender. If the
assessment indicates alcohol treatment is necessary, the judge may be required to
order the completion of treatment as a condition of probation.
Drivers who commit these alcohol-related offenses with a child less than 16
years old in the vehicle may be charged with a class E felony, punishable up to four
years in prison. (This is known as Leandras Law.)
The law also makes it a felony to drive drunk with a conditional license, which
is a license that may be issued by the DMV when someone is convicted of an
alcohol-related offense. Such a license may be used only for driving to and from
essential destinations such as school, work and medical appointments. The
conditional driver license will be revoked if the motorist does not comply with
the court terms or for conviction for any traffic offense except parking, stopping
or standing.
4 If you go to events with the same group of friends, rotate drivers. Each friend
takes a turn being the designated driver who does not drink any alcohol.
4 Arrange to remain overnight or ride home with a friend who does not drink.
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4 Before you drink, give your car keys to a friend who does not drink and who
will not let you drive after you drink.
4 Drink slowly. Alternate between drinks with alcohol and drinks without
any alcohol.
4 If you have had too much alcohol, stop drinking several hours before you
intend to leave so your body can begin to lower your BAC.
QUESTIONS
Before you move on to Chapter 10, make sure you can answer these questions:
4 What are the effects of alcohol on the skills you need to drive?
4 Which of these drugs could affect your ability to drive: marijuana, a cold
remedy, a tranquilizer?
4 If you take a non-prescription drug, what must you do before you drive?
4 What is a likely effect when you take another drug while you drink beverages
containing alcohol?
4 On what three conditions does your blood alcohol content (BAC) depend?
4 Which of these contains more alcohol than the other three: 112 (30 ml)
of liquor, five ounces (120 ml) wine, 12 ounces (360 ml) of beer, 12 ounces
(360 ml) of wine cooler?
4 On average, how long does it take your body to remove the alcohol
contained in 12 ounces of beer?
4 Other than fines, action against your driver license and a possible jail term,
what are some of the results when you drive under the influence of alcohol
or other drugs?
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CHAPTER 10 Special Driving Conditions
Even under the best conditions, driving requires your full attention and your
best judgment. When special conditions or hazards occur, attention and judgment
become even more important. To be a good and safe driver, you must learn how to
drive on expressways, at night in bad weather and when an emergency occurs.
RAILROAD CROSSINGS
GRADE CROSSINGS
A grade crossing is the point at which train tracks intersect with a roadway and
is considered an intersection. As you approach a crossing, always expect a train.
Trains can run on any track, at any time, from either direction. Never race a train to
a crossing, never drive around lowered gates, and do not stop on tracks. (You will
learn later in the section what to do if your vehicle stalls or gets stuck on a track.)
When crossing tracks, always stay in your lane and in the same gear.
Some grade crossings have flashing red lights or lowering gates when a train
approaches (active grade crossings). When approaching marked, or active, grade
crossings, do not proceed until the gates are completely raised and the lights are off.
It is illegal and dangerous to go around lowered gates or to cross while the lights are
still flashing.
Some grade crossing do not have gates or flashing lights. When approaching
unmarked, or passive, grade crossings, slow down and be prepared to stop. Before
you cross, be sure that a train is not coming. If you see a train coming, wait until it
passes, and then cross the tracks when it is safe to do so. If there are multiple
tracks, wait until you can clearly see down all sets of tracks in both directions for
another approaching train before crossing.
Remember that the train you see is closer and faster-moving than you think,
and be aware that trains cannot stop quickly.
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Railroad Crossing Signals
Yield when you see a crossbuck sign, which is a sign shaped like an
X with RAILROAD CROSSING printed on it (like the sign above but
without flashing lights). If there are
multiple train tracks, the sign will show the
number of tracks.
Look and listen for trains before crossing any railroad tracks. If an
approaching train is near enough or going fast enough to be a danger,
you cannot go across the tracks, even if they have no signals or the signals are not
working.
Pavement Markings
What should you do if you stall on the tracks, for any reason?
2. Get away from the tracks, even if you do not see a train.
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Run toward the general direction the train is coming from. If a train is
approaching, run toward the train but away from the tracks at a 45 degree angle. If
you run "down the track," in the same direction as the train, you can be hit with
debris when the train hits your vehicle.
EXPRESSWAY DRIVING
Expressway means any divided
highway where traffic moves in one
direction on two or more lanes. You
normally enter or exit the expressway
on ramps (controlled-access). The
speed limit is normally 55 mph (88
km/h), but can be posted at 65 mph
(100 km/h) in some rural areas.
Examples of expressways are the New York State Thruway, major interstate routes
and parkways.
Before you travel on an expressway, identify your entrance and exit points on a
road map. Know where to get on and off the expressway and be prepared to get into
the correct lanes for your entrance and exit. If you get on a wrong exit, never drive in
reverse to return to the expressway. Get off at the next exit and look for signs that tell
you how to return to the expressway.
Unless there is a STOP or YIELD sign or traffic light on the entrance ramp, use
the ramp to accelerate to expressway speed and blend with traffic. Signal, then look
over your shoulder for traffic already on the expressway. If necessary, slow down to
safely merge into traffic.
If the entrance lane is too short to allow acceleration to expressway speed, the
safest method to enter is to stop and wait for a large space in traffic. Then enter the
expressway and accelerate quickly. To avoid conflicts with other entrance lane
traffic, stop when necessary and merge into expressway traffic as soon as possible.
As you drive on the expressway, make sure to signal all lane changes and check
over your shoulder to make sure you will not cut off any vehicles behind you. Make
sure your directional signal goes off after you change lanes.
Remain alert for traffic that enters ahead. If possible, move from the right lane
when you approach the entrances to allow more room for traffic that comes from
the ramp.
To prevent a last-minute lane change, check the destination and exit signs and
get into the correct lane for your exit ahead of time. Make sure to signal your exit at
least 100 feet (30 m) before you reach the exit ramp. When you are on the exit ramp,
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decrease your speed. There is often a
lower speed limit for the ramp.
Expressway driving normally combines higher speeds with heavy traffic. The
higher speed and amount of traffic require you to think faster and handle your
vehicle in a more efficient manner than in most other conditions. On long trips, plan
frequent rest stops. On a bright day, sunglasses can reduce glare and eye fatigue.
NIGHT DRIVING
About 90% of your decisions are based on what you see. At night, you must use
extra caution to make up for reduced visibility. You should also know that the ability
to see well at night decreases with age.
Night driving is more dangerous because the distance you can see ahead or to
the side is reduced. You should drive slower than you would in daylight, especially
in areas that are not known or on narrow roads with many curves. Your headlights
cover about 350 feet ahead. It is important that you drive at a speed that allows you
to stop safely within that distance. This is called driving within the range of your
headlights.
The law requires you to use your headlights from one-half hour after the
sun sets to one-half hour before the sun rises, when visibility is less than 1,000 feet
(300 m) and when you use your windshield wipers to clear rain, snow or sleet.
Turn your headlights on at dawn, dusk and in fog. Even when headlights do not
help you see in low-light periods, they make it easier for other drivers and
pedestrians to see your vehicle. Do not use parking lights or daytime lights as a
replacement. Headlights do a better job. If an oncoming driver flashes headlights
at you during a period of low visibility, it means your vehicle was difficult to see
and you should turn on your headlights.
Be considerate when you use your high beams. Your headlights must be on
low beam when you are within 500 feet (150 m) of an oncoming vehicle or within
200 feet (60 m) of a vehicle ahead of you, even if the vehicle ahead is in a different
lane. You should also dim your lights for pedestrians who approach you. Any fog or
driving lights your vehicle has must be arranged, adjusted or operated to avoid
dangerous glare to other drivers.
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If an approaching driver does not dim the headlights, flash your headlights
to high beam for a second, then return to low beam. To help avoid the glare of
approaching high beams, move your eyes to the right. Use the road edge as a guide
until the approaching vehicle passes by.
To reduce glare from the lights of following vehicles, switch your interior rear
view mirror to the night position.
Light from inside your vehicle or from street lights makes it harder for you to
see the road ahead. Keep the interior roof light off and dim the dashboard lights.
Adjust your visors to reduce glare from lights from above.
A dirty windshield increases glare from approaching headlights. Make sure your
lights and windshield glass are clean for night driving.
In heavy rain, your tires can begin to ride on the water that is on top of the road
pavement. This hydroplaning can cause complete loss of traction and control of
steering. Hydroplaning normally occurs at higher speeds, but it also can occur if
your tires are tread worn or not inflated properly. When there is heavy rain, it always
makes sense to drive more slowly. If your vehicle begins to lose traction, decrease
your speed even more. Good tires with deep tread help to prevent hydroplaning.
Rain, fog or snow make it harder to see through your windshield, and difficult
for other drivers to see you. New York State law requires you to turn on your
headlights when the weather conditions require the use of windshield wipers to
clear rain, snow, sleet or fog. Daytime lights do not qualify as headlights.
High headlight beams reflect rain, fog and snow as it falls. This makes it even
harder for you to see. For better visibility during these weather conditions, keep your
headlights on low beam. Reduce your speed. Signal your turns further ahead of time
to give other drivers and roadway users more warning. Brake early when you
decrease speed behind another vehicle or come to an intersection stop.
Some vehicles have front fog lights or front and back fog lights, for use when
heavy fog or similar hazardous weather conditions restrict visibility. In New York
State, all fog lights must be correctly installed and of a type approved by the
Commissioner of DMV. Front fog lights can be amber or white in color. Back fog
lights must be red and can be larger than the normal back lights they will give
advance warning of the presence of your vehicle to the drivers behind you. When
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visibility improves, you can switch off your fog lights to reduce the glare that can
bother other drivers.
Before winter weather arrives, make sure your vehicle is in good condition.
Make sure your vehicle has good snow tires. Put them on the vehicle before the first
storm. Never combine radial and non-radial tires on the same vehicle. Tires with
metal studs can be used in New York State only from October 16 through April 30.
During ice or snow storms, do not drive unless you must. If you must drive, first
clear the ice and snow from your vehicle. This includes the headlights and back
lights, the windshield wipers and all of the windows. Make sure the windshield
washer reservoir is filled with a cleaning solution that resists freezing.
Drive slowly. Even if your vehicle has good traction in ice and snow, other
drivers will travel with caution. Do not break the flow of traffic by driving faster than
other vehicles.
In a rear-wheel drive vehicle, you can normally feel a loss of traction or the start
of a slide. With a front-wheel drive vehicle, there might not be a warning. Although
front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive vehicles normally handle better in ice and
snow, they do not have flawless traction; skids can occur without a warning. Do not
let the ability to better handle a front-wheel or four-wheel vehicle make you drive
faster than the conditions dictate.
The best method to recover from a skid is the same for both front and rear-
wheel drive vehicles.
4 Turn the steering wheel in the direction the vehicle is trying to go. If your
rear wheels slide left, steer left. If they slide right, steer right.
4 If your rear wheels start to slide in the other direction as you recover, turn
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the steering wheel toward that side. You might have to turn the wheel left
and right several times to get your vehicle completely controlled.
4 If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes (ABS), keep your foot with even pressure
on the brake pedal. If your vehicle does not have ABS, pump the pedal
carefully. Pump more rapidly only as your car slows down. If you brake
hard with regular brakes, it will make the situation worse.
4 Take your foot off the gas and shift to neutral or push in the clutch, but do
not try to immediately steer.
4 As the wheels skid sideways, they will slow the vehicle and traction will
return. As traction returns, turn the wheel in the direction you want to go.
Then put the transmission in drive or release the clutch and accelerate
carefully.
To prevent skids on snow and ice, brake early, carefully and gently. Press your
brakes in slow, steady strokes. Allow the wheels to keep turning. If they begin to
lock, decrease pressure on the brake pedal. As your vehicle decreases speed, you
can also shift into a lower gear.
When sleet, freezing rain or snow begin to fall, remember that bridges, ramps
and overpasses will freeze first. Also know that slippery spots may remain after road
workers have removed the snow.
4 Be careful when you drive at dawn and dusk; this is when driver visibility is
bad and the deer are most active.
4 The risk of deer-vehicle collisions increases when deer movements increase
during breeding season in October, November and December.
4 Decrease speed when you approach deer near roadsides. Deer can bolt or
change direction at the last minute.
4 If you see a deer go across the road, decrease speed and be careful. Deer
travel in groups, expect other deer to follow.
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4 Use emergency lights or a headlight signal to warn other drivers when deer
are seen on or near the road.
4 Use caution on roadways marked with deer crossing signs. These signs are
put in areas that have had a large number of deer-vehicle collisions.
DRIVING EMERGENCIES
The most important rule in any emergency is do not panic. You have a better
chance in an emergency if you do not let fear take over. In most emergencies, you
will have a second or two to think before you act.
LOSS OF A WHEEL - Handle this as you would a blowout. A thump or noise in the
wheel can be a warning sound. Leave the roadway and stop. Then check your
vehicle or have it checked.
STEERING FAILURE - If your vehicle suddenly will not respond when you steer,
slowly take your foot off the gas pedal, turn on your emergency lights and keep your
foot off the brake pedal while it is safe to do so. The balance of the vehicle will allow it
to continue going straight, but a sudden change in speed could send it out of control.
As the vehicle decreases speed, you can brake very carefully to bring it to a stop.
BRAKE FAILURE - If your brake pedal suddenly goes to the floor, try pumping it to
increase pressure. If that does not help, use your emergency or parking brake but
use it gently. If you shift to a lower gear, it will help your vehicle decrease speed.
STUCK GAS PEDAL - Hook your shoe under the pedal and see if you can free it. If
not, shift into neutral and use the brake to slow your vehicle and get off the road. Do
not turn off the ignition if your vehicle has power steering or a steering wheel that
has a column that locks, because if you do, you will lose power steering or not have
the ability to steer at all.
RUNNING OFF THE PAVEMENT - If your wheels move off the pavement, do not
pull the steering wheel back. Ease your foot off the gas pedal and brake gently.
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When your vehicle has decreased speed, check for traffic behind you, then turn
carefully back onto the pavement.
STALLING ON RAILROAD TRACKS - If a train approaches, release your seat belt, leave
the vehicle and get as far away as you can from the tracks. Run toward the general
direction the train is coming from. If you run down the track in the same direction as
the train, you can be hit with debris when the train hits your vehicle. When you are
completely sure no trains are coming, open your window to listen for a train and try to
start the engine. If that fails, shift your vehicle into neutral and push it from the tracks.
GOING INTO WATER - A vehicle will normally float for a while, and you should
have time to remove yourself before it starts to sink. Release your seat belt and
escape through a window. An open door would cause water to rush in and the car
could turn over on top of you.
If the vehicle sinks before you can remove yourself, get into the back seat. An air
pocket can form there as the weight of the engine pulls the vehicle down front first.
When the vehicle settles, take a breath and escape through a window. When you rise
air pressure will build in your lungs. Let it out in small breaths through your nose or
lips as you surface. Do not hold your breath tight or try to blow air out; just allow the
air to escape in a natural way.
FIRE - If you see smoke come from under the hood, pull off the road and park your
vehicle. Turn off the ignition. Get away from the car and call the fire department. It
is dangerous to try to fight the fire yourself.
BLOCKED VISION - If your hood opens suddenly or your vision through the
windshield becomes blocked by some other object or wipers that have failed, you
can open the side window so you can see. Turn on your emergency lights and
carefully pull your vehicle off the road and park it.
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QUESTIONS
Before you go on to Chapter 11, make sure you can answer questions:
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CHAPTER 11 Sharing the Road
You must learn to safely share the road with large vehicles, motorcycles,
mopeds, pedestrians, bicyclists, in-line skaters, roller skaters, skateboarders, slow
moving vehicles, non-motorized scooters and horseback riders. You should know
how to safely manage the problems they can present and understand the special
rules they must obey.
For more information about the traffic law and regulations for these roadway
users, see Sharing the Road Safely (C-77), available from the DMV Web site.
Look out for children, near schools, bus stops, playgrounds, parks and ice
cream trucks.
When you back your car or truck, look through your back window for
pedestrians. Do not rely only on mirrors when children are near. Before you back
into a driveway, or out of it, get out of the vehicle and check behind your vehicle.
Pedestrians are supposed to walk on the side of the road and face the traffic in
the lane nearest them. When you make a right turn, watch for those pedestrians on
your right. When you make a left turn, watch for pedestrians on the other side of the
road on your left.
Pedestrians and skateboarders who are legally crossing the road or street at
marked or unmarked crossings, like at an intersection, always have the right-of-way.
You must decrease your speed or, if necessary, come to a complete stop. Elderly and
disabled pedestrians can require additional time to complete their crossings.
A special right-of-way law allows blind pedestrians to go across the road with
a guide dog or a white or metal cane. You must always give them the right-of-way
when they are trying to cross at a marked or unmarked crosswalk even if the traffic
signals or other right-of-way rules are not in their favor.
Remember to move your eyes as you drive. Look to either side every few
seconds to help you spot pedestrians near or approaching the roadway.
4 Obey traffic and pedestrian signals, traffic officers and official signs.
4 Use the sidewalk when available or face traffic as they walk, as far from the
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near traffic lane as possible.
4 Never stand in the road to hitchhike or conduct business with motorists.
Be aware that the bicyclist or in-line skater near or in front of you can react
to road hazards like a motorcyclist, with sudden changes of speed, direction or
lane position.
The rules of the road and right-of-way apply to and protect these and other
highway users. You must yield the right-of-way to them just as you would to another
vehicle. And they must obey the rules of the road just as motor vehicle drivers do.
4 Ride in a bicycle lane, if available. Where there is none, they must remain
near the right curb or edge of the road or on a right shoulder of the road, to
prevent interference with other traffic. When they prepare for a left turn or
must move left to avoid hazards, cyclists do not have to remain to the right.
4 Come to a full stop before you enter a roadway from a driveway, an alley or
over a curb.
4 Never travel with more than two side-by-side in a single lane.
4 Never ride on a sidewalk if it is prohibited by local laws.
Bicyclists and their passenger and in-line skaters, age 1 through 13, must wear an
approved helmet. Adults must obey any local laws or regulations about helmet use.
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is against the law. Child passengers 1-4 must ride in attached bicycle safety
seats.
4 Never carry a passenger unless the bicycle has a passenger seat.
4 Keep at least one hand on the handlebars at all times and not carry any item
which prevents correct control of the bicycle.
4 Any bicycle crash that causes death or serious injury must be reported to
DMV within 10 days of the incident. Bicycle accident report forms (MV104C)
are available at any motor vehicle office.
A bicycle driven on public highways must have adequate brakes and a horn or
bell that can be heard at least 100 feet (30 m) away. A bicycle used at night must have a
headlight visible from at least 500 feet (150 m) ahead and a red taillight visible from at
least 300 feet (90 m) behind. One of these lights must be visible from at least 200 feet
(60 m) away on each side. A bicycle sold by a dealer must have wide-angle, spoke-
mounted reflectors or reflective tires, a wide-angle rear reflector and pedal reflectors.
MOTORCYCLISTS
Motorcyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of other
vehicles, and must follow the same traffic laws. However, motorcyclists, like
pedestrians, bicyclists and skaters, are less visible to drivers, are less stable and have
less protection.
It is often hard to judge how far away a motorcycle is or how fast it will reach
you. Many motorcycle crashes that involve other vehicles occur when the driver of
the other vehicle fails to judge the speed or distance or does not see the motorcycle
at all, and then stops or turns left in front of the motorcyclist.
On most motorcycles, the directional signal does not go off automatically after a
turn. Before you stop or turn in front of a motorcyclist who signals a turn, make sure
the motorcyclist is actually going to turn.
A motorcyclist can use a full lane and two motorcyclists are allowed to ride
side-by-side in a single lane. A motorcyclist who has experience will often change
position within a lane to get a clear view of traffic, avoid hazards and be more visible
to drivers. You can not pass or drive next to a motorcycle in the same lane and a
motorcyclist can not share a lane with you.
Be careful when you pass a motorcyclist. Like bicycles, the air pressure of
vehicles that pass quickly can affect motorcycles.
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Because motorcyclists must take additional precautions when they come upon
special highway surfaces, you should know what a motorcyclist may do:
4 The motorcyclist may quickly change speed or lane position to avoid loose
gravel, debris, seams or grooves in the pavement, sewer or access covers or
small animals.
4 When approaching a railroad crossing, a motorcyclist may decrease speed
and rise off the seat to cushion the rough crossing and change direction to
go across the tracks at a right angle.
4 On steel deck bridges the motorcyclist may move to the center of the lane
to adjust for the surface that is not even. Stay a good distance behind a
motorcyclist in this situation.
MOPED OPERATORS
Limited use motorcycles, often called mopeds, are low speed, two- or three-
wheeled vehicles for limited use on public highways. There are three different
classes of mopeds based on maximum performance speed. The chart below
describes the requirements for moped operation.
Class B and C mopeds can be driven only in the right lane of traffic, as far to the
right as possible. Class A mopeds are allowed to drive in any lane and any section of
a lane. Mopeds are not permitted on expressways or other controlled access
highways unless posted signs permit it.
When you approach a moped, use the same precautions you would when you
approach a bicyclist.
LARGE VEHICLES
In more than 60 percent of all fatal crashes that involve cars and big trucks, the
car driver, not the truck driver, contributes to the cause of the traffic crash. Four out
of five times, it is the car driver who is killed.
Large trucks, recreational vehicles and buses are not big cars. The bigger they are:
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4 The longer it takes an automobile to pass them.
4 Blind Spots
Different from cars, large vehicles have deep blind spots behind them. They
also have larger blind spots on both sides. Tractors with long hoods can have a blind
spot of 20 feet in front of the vehicle. You should avoid these no zones.
Distance to Stop
Ability to maneuver
Large vehicles are not as maneuverable as cars. They take longer to stop and to
accelerate and they often need to move wide to make their turns.
You can reduce the chance of a collision with a large vehicle if you:
4 Do not cut abruptly in front of the large vehicle; when you exit, take a few
additional seconds to decrease speed and exit behind it; when you pass, do not
pull in front of it unless you can see the whole front of the vehicle in your mirror.
4 Pay close attention to the turn signals. Because trucks make wide right turns,
they move to the left before they turn right. Look at the turn signals.
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GUIDE TO LIMITED USE MOTORCYCLE (MOPEDS) OPERATION
Class A B C
Top speed range mph (km/hr) 31 to 40 21 to 30 20 or less
(Over 48 to 64) (over 32 to 48) (32 or less)
Type of license or learner
permit required4 M ANY CLASS4 ANY CLASS4
Registration required YES (A Plate) YES (B Plate) YES (C Plate)
Headlight to be on when
operating YES YES YES
Helmet & eye protection
required when operating5 YES YES Recommended
Where operation is permitted Any Traffic Lane Right Hand Lane Right Hand Lane
Only1 & Shoulder or Shoulder or Shoulder
Mandatory insurance required YES YES Recommended2
Safety responsibility applies
3
YES YES YES
Annual inspection required YES Recommended Recommended
Title required NO NO NO
1
Except when making a left hand turn. vehicle safety standards (FMVSS 218). To
2
If a Class C limited use motorcycle is used in a improve the motorcyclists visibility, the DMV
recommends that helmets have at least four
rental business, insurance is mandatory.
square inches of reflective material on both sides.
3
Safety responsibility is the requirement to pay Motorcyclists must also wear approved eye
for or post security for damage or personal injury protection, even if the motorcycle is equipped with
you may cause in a traffic crash. a windshield. Prescription or made-to-order safety
4 glasses may be used if the user can present written
Usual learner permit and junior license
certification that they meet DMV standards. The
restrictions apply.
eye protection must be manufactured in
5
Motorcyclists must wear approved motorcycle conformity with the regulations issued by the
helmets, as defined by USDOT federal motor Vehicle Equipment Safety Commission (VESC-8).
4 Do not delay near a large vehicle. You may not be visible to the driver in the
wide area the truck needs for making a turn.
When you pass a large vehicle, it takes a longer time and requires more space
than when you pass a car. On a two-way road, leave more time and space when you
pass a large vehicle. Make sure you can see the whole front of the vehicle before
you return to your lane after you pass. A large vehicle normally loses speed on a
grade or a hill. Look far ahead when you drive. If you need to pass a large vehicle,
be prepared and know when you are near a grade that can cause the other vehicle
to decrease speed. Also, as your own vehicle begins a downward grade, the speed
of the other vehicle can increase significantly. This will increase the time it takes
you to pass it.
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AVERAGE TOTAL STOPPING DISTANCE AT 55 MPH*
Passenger Car
*Distance based on a study of average braking distances by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
+ reaction distance recommended by the National Safety Council
Never pass close behind a large vehicle that is backing up. Often a truck driver
has to block a road to back into an area to load or unload goods. Be patient!
It is far better to wait until the large vehicle has completed its backup maneuver
than to try to pass. If you try to pass in this situation, it is likely that you will enter
one of the blind spots. This could make your vehicle invisible to the driver and
increase the risk of a traffic crash.
Always leave space when you stop in back of a truck or bus at a traffic light or
stop sign, especially when you face up a hill. The truck or bus could stop or move
backward slightly when it starts. If you leave enough room between your vehicle and
the vehicle ahead, you usually can pull away from behind and go around it.
SLOW-MOVING VEHICLES
The slow-moving vehicle symbol, a reflective orange triangle, must be
displayed on the back of vehicles drawn by animals, and most farm vehicles and
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construction equipment. The United States Postal Service also requires these orange
safety-triangles to be displayed on all rural mail delivery vehicles. Use caution when
you approach a slow-moving vehicle and make sure it is safe before you pass.
HORSE RIDERS
Horse riders are subject to, and protected by, the rules of the road. They also
must ride single file near the right curb or road edge or on a right shoulder, lane or
path that can be used.
The law requires you to be careful when you approach a horse being ridden or
walked along a road. You must drive at an acceptable speed and at an acceptable
distance away from the horse. It is illegal to sound your horn when you approach or
pass a horse.
QUESTIONS
Before you go on to Chapter 12, make sure you can answer these questions:
4 How do the blind spots around a large commercial vehicle differ from the
blind spots around a car?
4 How does the stopping distance of a large vehicle with air brakes compare
with the stopping distance of a car?
4 After you pass a large vehicle, what should you make sure of before you
return to the lane of the large vehicle?
4 What is the best method to follow when you approach a large vehicle that is
in reverse as it moves toward a loading area?
4 When children are close, what should you do before you back out of a
driveway?
4 How can you identify a blind pedestrian to whom you must yield the right-
of-way?
4 Where must a pedestrian walk when there are no sidewalks?
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4 How must you approach a bicyclist?
4 Must a bicyclist obey traffic laws and signs?
4 Where there is no bicycle lane, where on the road must a bicyclist ride?
4 What equipment must a bicycle have when used at night?
4 May three motorcyclists ride side-by-side in a single lane?
There are more than 300,000 traffic crashes in New York State each year. If you
obey the law and follow the advice in this manual, it is possible you will avoid a
crash. Yet even the most careful drivers are involved in crashes caused by events that
are not planned or the error of other drivers. If you are in a traffic crash, you must be
ready to act in a responsible manner at the scene and obey the law when you report
the incident.
You can carry an emergency kit in your vehicle that has flares and first aid
supplies. Emergency road-kits are available in department stores or stores that sell
automobile goods.
AT THE SCENE
If you are in a crash you must stop. The level of damage does not matter. You
must stop. It is a traffic violation to leave the scene of an incident, like a traffic
crash that involves property damage. It is a criminal violation to leave the scene
of an incident that involves a fatality or personal injury. Even if the crash involves
only property damage, you must exchange information with other drivers
involved. Give your name, address, the motorist identification (ID) number from
your driver license and vehicle registration and insurance information. This
includes the insurance policy number and effective date. Give the information
to the other drivers and police on the scene. You must show your insurance
identification card if requested. If a parked vehicle or property different from a
vehicle is damaged or if a domestic animal is injured, you must try to find the
owner or notify the police.
If any person is injured or killed, the police must be notified immediately and
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you should make sure ambulance or rescue personnel have been called.
If possible, move your vehicle off the road. Protect the scene with reflectors or
flares, but watch for any fuel that may leak. Make sure to protect yourself and others
from oncoming traffic.
EMERGENCY FIRST-AID
Do not stop at a crash scene unless you are involved or emergency help has not
arrived. Focus on driving and the directions given by traffic officers.
If necessary, carefully position the victim on his back, then open the airway as
shown. Listen for breathing, look for the chest to rise and fall and feel for flow of air.
If the victim is not breathing, begin rescue breathing.
To rescue-breathe, seal your lips over the mouth of the victim, press the
nostrils together and give two full breaths, watching for the chest to rise. Remove
your mouth to allow air to escape. If the chest does not rise, carefully move the
head of the victim to open the airway. Look to see if the victim is breathing. If he
is not breathing, give one breath every five seconds. Pause every few minutes to
see if the victim can breathe without assistance. If the victim can breathe, stop
rescue-breathing.
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REPORTS TO DMV
If you are in a traffic crash that involves a fatality or personal injury, you must
report it to DMV. You must also report any traffic incident or crash that involves $1,000
or more in damage to the property of any one person. The form Report of Motor
Vehicle Accident (MV-104) is available at any motor vehicle office, from most insurance
agents, by request from a DMV Call Center and from the DMV Web site dmv.ny.gov.
If the driver is injured and unable to complete the report, a passenger or the
vehicle owner may do so.
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DMV CONSUMER DIRECTORY
STATE DMV OFFICES
UPSTATE REGION METROPOLITAN REGION
Albany Manhattan
224 South Pearl Street 12202 4Harlem
Peekskill 159 East 125th Street,
1045 Park Street 10566 3rd Floor 10035
4Midtown Manhattan
Syracuse 366 West 31st Street,
4671 Onondaga Boulevard, 2nd Floor 10001
Suite 185 13219 No exchange of out-of-state licenses.
North Syracuse 4License Express
801 East Taft Road 13212 145 West 30th Street 10001
Limited to license and registration renewals
West Haverstraw and duplicates, license plate surrenders and
50 Samsondale Plaza 10993 exchange of out-of-state licenses.
White Plains 4New York District Office
200 Hamilton Avenue 10601 11 Greenwich Street 10004
No written tests. Brooklyn
625 Atlantic Avenue 11217
LONG ISLAND REGION 4Coney Island
2875 West 8th Street 11224
Bethpage
4031 Hempstead Turnpike 11714-5607 Bronx
No CDL tests. No escort vehicle testing. 696 East Fordham Road 10458
No original license, permit, or non-driver I.D.
Garden City transactions.
801 Axinn Avenue 11530
Bronx Licensing Center
Hauppauge 1350 Commerce Avenue 10461
250 Veterans Memorial Highway 11788-5501 Limited to original permit/license applications and
tests, and original non-driver I.D. applications.
Huntington
Big H Shopping Center Suite 11 Queens
813 New York Avenue 11743 168-46 91st Avenue, 2nd Floor 11432
No permit testing. 4Springfield Gardens
68-35 Rockaway Boulevard
Massapequa Jamaica 11434-5221
4College Point
927 Carmans Road 11758
Medford 30-56 Whitestone Expressway 11354-1946
2799 Route 112 11763-2535 Staten Island (Richmond)
Port Jefferson 1775 South Avenue
3 Roads Plaza West Shore Shopping Plaza 10314
1055 Route 112 11776-3054 Yonkers
No CDL permit or license testing. 1 Larkin Plaza 10701
Riverhead
200 Old Country Road, Route 58
11901-2117
101
DMV CONSUMER DIRECTORY
COUNTY DMV OFFICES
Allegany Delaware Franklin
7 Court Street 3 Court House Square 63 West Main Street
Belmont 14813 Delhi 13753 Malone 12953
Broome 4Deposit 4Saranac Lake
124-132 Washington Avenue 3 Elm Street 13754 39 Main 12983
Endicott 13760 4Margaretville Fulton
4Binghamton 773 Main Street 12455 223 West Main Stree
181 Clinton Street 13901 4Sidney Johnstown 12095
and, 44 Hawley Street 13905 21 Liberty Street 13838 Genesee
Cattaraugus Dutchess Main & Court Street
303 Court Street 22 Market Street County Building 1
Little Valley 14755 Poughkeepsie 12601 Batavia 14021-0379
4Delevan 4Beacon Greene
1006 Main Street 14042 223 Main Street 12508 411 Main Street
4Olean 4Millbrook Catskill 12414
1 Leo Moss Drive, 15 Merritt Avenue 12545 Hamilton
Suite 1412 14760-1412 4Pawling County Office Building., Rt. 8
Cayuga 20 East Main Street 12564 Lake Pleasant 12108
160 Genesee Street 4Wappingers Falls Herkimer
Auburn 13021 29 Marshall Road 12590 109 Mary Street, Suite 1111
Chautauqua Erie Herkimer 13350
Hall R. Clothier Building 170 Pearl Street
5 North Erie Street Buffalo 14202 Old Forge
183 Park Avenue 13420
4Cheektowaga
Mayville 14757
4Dunkirk 2122 George Urban Boulevard Jefferson
3988 Vineyard Drive 14048 Depew 14043 175 Arsenal Street
4Jamestown 4Eastern Hills Mall
Watertown 13601
110 East 4th Street 14701 4545 Transit Road 4Fort Drum
Chemung Williamsville 14221 Clark Hall Building,
425-447 Pennsylvania Avenue 4Evans Town Hall Room C-134
Elmira 14904-1390 8787 Erie Road (Route 5) 10720 Mt. Belvedere Blvd. 13603
Angola 14006 Lewis
4Northtown Plaza
Chenango 7049 State Route 12
5 Court Street Lowville 13367
Norwich 13815 3095A Sheridan Drive
Amherst 14226
4Erie County Community
Livingston
Clinton 6 Court Street, Room 204
137 Margaret Street College - South Campus Geneseo 14454-1043
Plattsburgh 12901 4041 Southwestern Boulevard
Orchard Park 14224 4Dansville
Columbia North Dansville Town Hall
560 Warren Street Essex
14 Clara Barton Street 14437
Hudson 12534 7559 Court Street
Elizabethtown 12932 Madison
4Ticonderoga
Cortland North Court Street, Building 4
112 River Street, Wampsville 13163-0667
1st Floor 13045-3702 132 Montcalm Street 12883
102
DMV CONSUMER DIRECTORY
COUNTY DMV OFFICES
Monroe Oswego Watkins Glen 14891
Suburban Plaza 384 East River Road 13126
Seneca
4Fulton
2199 East Henrietta Road
Rochester 14623 1 DiPronio Drive
200 North Second Street 13069 Waterloo 13165-0638
4Greece 4Pulaski
152 Greece Ridge Center Steuben
2 Broad Street 13142 3 East Pulteney Square
Rochester 14626
4Irondequoit
Otsego Bath 14810
4Corning
197 Main Street
545 Titus Avenue Cooperstown 13326
Rochester 14617 10 West 1st Street, Suite100
Montgomery 4Oneonta Corning 14830
County Office Building 16 South Main Street 13820 4Hornell
64 Broadway Putnam 12 Allen Street 14843
Fonda 12068 1 Geneva Road Sullivan
Terravest Corporate Park, Rt. 312 100 North Street
Niagara Brewster 10509
111 Main Street Monticello 12701
(adjacent to Exit 19 of I-84)
Lockport 14094
Tioga
4Niagara Falls
Rensselaer 56 Main Street
1600 Seventh Avenue Owego 13827
1001 11th Street 14301 Troy 12180
4North Tonawanda Tompkins
500 Wheatfield Street 14120 St. Lawrence 301 Third Street
80 State Highway 310 Ithaca 14850
Oneida Canton 13617
321 West Main Street
4Gouveneur
Ulster
Utica 13501
240 Fair Street
4Rome
1227 US Highway 11 13642 Kingston 12402
301 West Dominick Street 4Massena
21 Harrowgate Commons Warren
13440
13622 1340 State Route 9
4Ogdensburg
Ontario Lake George 12845
20 Ontario Street
Canandaigua 14424 330 Ford Street, City Hall 13669 Washington
4Geneva Saratoga 383 Upper Broadway, Building A
40 McMaster Street Fort Edward 12828
83 Seneca Street 14456
Ballston Spa 12020
Wayne
4Clifton Park
Orange
9 Pearl Street
4Newburgh Clifton Park Center 12065 Lyons 14489
4Saratoga Springs
128 Broadway 12550
4Port Jervis
Wyoming
Wilton Mall 12866 6 Perry Avenue
20 Hammond Street 12771
Warsaw 14569
4Middletown
Schenectady
267 State Street 12305
12 King Street 10940 Yates
Schoharie 417 Liberty Street
Orleans
145 Podpadic Road Penn Yan 14527
14016 Route 31 West
Albion, 14411 Richmondville 12149
Schuyler
105 Ninth Street
103
TELEPHONE NUMBERS
DMV CALL CENTERS
Metropolitan New York City:
From area codes 212, 347, 646, 718, 917, 929: 1-(212)-645-5550 or 1-(718)-966-6155
Downstate Call Center General Assistance: 1-(718)-477-4820
Albany Call Center General Assistance: 1-(518)-486-9786
EDL Helpline: 1-(518) 474-9981
TTY/TDD (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf):
Within New York State: 1-(800) 368-1186, Outside New York State: 1-(518) 473-9002
To schedule a road test: www.dmv.ny.gov or 1-(518)-402-2100
For the most recent updates of state and county motor vehicle office locations, useful DMV addresses
and telephone numbers, and other important information, please visit our Web site.
The DMV Web site: www.dmv.ny.gov
Note: Approximate metric equivalents to U.S. measures are provided for information only.
New York State laws and regulations use U.S. measurements only.
The information in this manual is as accurate as possible at the time of publication but is subject to change.
This manual is intended to provide basic information and cannot possibly cover every traffic law or situation.
If you have a question about the information supplied in this manual or a situation not
covered, consult a motor vehicles representative at any motor vehicle office, or write to:
Office of Communications, Department of Motor Vehicles, 6 Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12228
Copyright 2015, New York State Department of Motor Vehicles. All rights reserved.
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Drivers Manual