NY DMV Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield NY DMV facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. In New York, when two vehicles reach a T-intersection, who has the right of way? → The vehicle on the continuing road (not the dead-end road) has the right of way
2. Which of the following services is typically provided at no charge at a DMV office? → Vision test for a driver’s license
3. What does New York's hands-free law prohibit while driving? → Holding and using a handheld electronic device while driving
4. What is the maximum fine for a first-offense speeding violation in New York? → $300
5. What does a broken (dashed) yellow center line indicate on a New York road? → Passing is permitted when it is safe to do so
6. In New York, what is the fee structure for late registration renewal? → A penalty fee is added for each month the registration is overdue
7. When must you yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk in New York? → Always, regardless of whether the crosswalk is marked or unmarked
8. What does a REAL ID-compliant New York driver license include that a standard license does not? → A gold star in the upper right corner indicating it meets federal standards
9. What must a new New York resident do after establishing residency in the state? → Apply for a NY license within 60 days
10. What does a 'WRONG WAY' sign mean if you see it while driving in New York? → You are traveling in the wrong direction on a divided highway or one-way road
11. What is the minimum bodily injury liability coverage required per accident in New York? → $50,000
12. For how long must a high-risk driver typically maintain an SR-22 filing in New York? → 3 years
13. What document serves as accepted proof of auto insurance in New York? → Your insurance ID card
14. How does the NY DMV track insurance status on registered vehicles? → Through the electronic Insurance Information and Enforcement System (IIES)
15. What type of information can you typically get for free at a NY DMV office? → Driving record
16. In New York, what is the speed limit in a school zone when children are present? → As posted on the school zone sign
17. What free resource does the NY DMV provide to help prepare for the written driver’s test? → Practice tests
18. In New York, vehicle registration fees are based primarily on: → The vehicle's weight and intended use (passenger vs. commercial)
19. A double solid white line on a New York road separates: → Traffic lanes where lane changes are prohibited
20. What is the minimum license revocation period for a first DWI conviction in New York? → 6 months
21. What must a driver do when approaching a school bus with flashing red lights in New York? → Stop at least 20 feet away and remain stopped until the lights stop flashing
22. Which of the following is an automatic failure on the New York DMV road test? → Causing an accident or running a red light
23. In New York City, what is the default speed limit unless otherwise posted? → 25 mph
24. In New York, a driver's license applicant who fails the written knowledge test must wait how long before retaking it? → 24 hours
25. When is it legal to pass on the right in New York? → When the vehicle ahead is making a left turn and there is room to pass safely
26. In New York, when following another vehicle, what is the recommended following distance under normal conditions? → At least three seconds behind the vehicle ahead
27. A yellow diamond-shaped sign in New York indicates: → A warning or hazard ahead
28. What is the penalty for a first-time conviction for reckless driving in New York? → A fine of up to $300 and/or up to 30 days in jail, plus 5 points on your license
29. What document proves vehicle ownership in New York? → The vehicle title (Certificate of Title)
30. What does a red octagonal sign always mean in New York? → Stop completely before proceeding