How long does it take to get a new NYS driver's license?

[singtopher]

Posted: 3/31/10 at 7:51pm

It's time for me to get a new license since mine expires on my birthday this year (May 3). How long does it usually take to get a new license in the mail? My only concern is that I'll be going to europe April 23rd, and won't get back until May 5th. Am I correct in assuming that there will be no issue returning with my expired driver's license as long I have a valid passport?

[JerseyGirl2]

Posted: 3/31/10 at 7:59pm

Don't you just go to the DMV and get it the same day?

You won't need your drivers license at all for travel if your passport is valid.

[singtopher]

Posted: 3/31/10 at 8:55pm

It is my understanding that in NY they send it through the mail. Michigan (where I current license is from) is the same way.

[StockardFan]

Posted: 3/31/10 at 10:23pm

I just renewed mine on line and got it in the mail I think. Speaking of which, I probably need to check the date because I think that was a while ago.

And yeah, you won't need to show your license if you have a passport.

[ghostlight2]

Posted: 3/31/10 at 10:34pm

In NYC, you can renew online, through the mail (though you may need proof of a simple eye exam) or just go in and do it same day at DMV. Doesn't matter if your license is already expired. When traveling, you should only need another picture ID (military, driver's license or non-driver's license ID) if there is a serious security alert, which very rarely happens. So rare that I'd bet they'd accept a recently expired license in the unlikely case that happens.

I do believe you have to show up in person if you've never had a NYS license before, though.

Have a great trip.

[StockardFan]

Posted: 3/31/10 at 10:44pm

Come to think of it, I didn't do it on line. I did it through the mail because I needed an eye exam. I forgot about that.

[Gothampc]

Posted: 4/1/10 at 3:07pm

I think I got mine in about a week. But do you need your license while in Europe? A passport should be enough, unless you are driving yourself to and from the airport.

[Phyllis Rogers Stone]

Posted: 4/1/10 at 4:33pm

Couldn't you go ahead and get it now? You don't have to wait until your old one expires.

[singtopher]

Posted: 4/1/10 at 4:40pm

That is the plan, but I didn't know how long it would take to get it. I stopped by the DMV today, and of course didn't quite have all the documents I needed.

Thanks for all your help guys.