New York Permit Test: Rules of the Road

Under New York's Move Over law, what extra step is required on a parkway or controlled-access highway?

Move out of the lane next to the shoulder, if safe.

VTL 1144-a says due care on parkways and controlled-access highways includes moving out of the lane next to the shoulder where the vehicle is stopped, provided the move is otherwise legal. On those roads this also covers any motor vehicle stopped on the shoulder.

Are you legally required to yield to a moving vehicle with blue or green lights in New York?

No. The manual says yield as a courtesy when safe.

The manual says vehicles displaying blue, green or amber lights are not authorized emergency vehicles and you are not required to yield, but it advises yielding as a courtesy when you safely can. Stopped vehicles with these lights are still covered by the Move Over law, VTL 1144-a.

In New York, how far before a turn must your signal be on?

At least 100 feet.

VTL 1163(b) requires a turn signal continuously during not less than the last 100 feet before turning. The manual gives at least 100 feet (30 m) for turns and lane changes.

When you turn left from a two-way road onto a one-way road in New York, which lane must you end up in?

The left lane of the road you enter.

The manual says to turn into the left lane of the road you enter. VTL 1160(c) also requires leaving the intersection, as nearly as practicable, in the left-hand lane.

In New York, how far must other drivers be able to see your vehicle in order to make a U-turn?

500 feet in either direction.

The manual says you cannot make a U-turn where other drivers cannot see your vehicle from 500 feet away in either direction, such as near the top of a hill or a curve.

Give three examples of places where a U-turn is prohibited in New York.

NYC business districts, school zones, limited access expressways.

The manual says you can never make a U-turn on a limited access expressway, and that U-turns are also prohibited in New York City business districts and school zones, and where signs say NO U-TURN.

In New York, how close may an oncoming vehicle get before you can no longer pass on the left?

Return to your lane before it comes within 200 feet.

The manual says you cannot pass on the left if you cannot safely return to the right lane before any oncoming vehicle comes within 200 feet (60 m) of you.

How close to a railroad crossing on a two-way road can you pass on the left in New York?

Not within 100 feet.

VTL 1125(a)(2) bars driving to the left when within 100 feet of or crossing a railroad grade crossing. The manual lists the same 100 feet (30 m) limit on two-way roads.

In New York, may you pass a vehicle that has stopped at a crosswalk to let a pedestrian cross?

No, never.

VTL 1151(c) says the driver behind shall not overtake and pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk to let a pedestrian cross. The manual says the same.

What must you do in New York when a school bus has stopped with its red lights flashing?

Stop before reaching it, from either direction.

VTL 1174(a) requires a driver meeting or overtaking the bus from either direction to stop before reaching it while the red signal operates. The manual says traffic from either direction must stop.

After stopping for a school bus in New York, when may you proceed?

When the bus moves, or the driver or a police officer signals.

VTL 1174(a) says you shall not proceed until the bus resumes motion or until signaled by the driver or a police officer to proceed.

What is the New York fine for a first conviction of passing a stopped school bus?

$250 to $400.

VTL 1174(c) sets a first-conviction fine of $250 to $400, or up to 30 days in jail, or both. The manual gives only the $250 minimum.

What is the New York fine for a third conviction of passing a stopped school bus within three years?

$750 to $1,500.

VTL 1174(c) sets $750 to $1,500, or up to 180 days in jail, or both. The manual says fines reach a maximum of $1,000, so the statute is the figure used here.

How far from a stopped school bus does the New York manual advise you to stop?

At least 20 feet.

The manual says you should stop at least 20 feet (6 m) from the bus. This is advice in the manual; VTL 1174 sets no distance.

In New York, how close to the curb must your wheels be when parallel parked?

No more than one foot.

The manual says your wheels must be no more than one foot (30 cm) from the curb. VTL 1203 says within twelve inches.

How far from a fire hydrant must you stay when parking in New York?

At least 15 feet.

VTL 1202(b) says no stopping, standing or parking within 15 feet of a hydrant unless a licensed driver is seated in the front seat and can move immediately. The manual gives the same 15 feet.

In New York, what exception allows a vehicle within 15 feet of a fire hydrant?

A licensed driver stays in it, ready to move it.

VTL 1202(b) lets a vehicle stand there only when attended by a licensed operator seated in the front seat who can immediately move it. The manual gives the same exception.

How far from a crosswalk at an intersection must you park in New York?

At least 20 feet.

VTL 1202(a)(2)(b) bars standing or parking within 20 feet of a crosswalk at an intersection unless signs indicate a different distance. The manual gives 20 feet (6 m).

How far from a traffic light, STOP sign or YIELD sign must you park in New York?

At least 30 feet.

VTL 1202(a)(2)(c) bars standing or parking within 30 feet on the approach to these controls, unless signs indicate otherwise. The manual gives 30 feet (10 m).

What are the two distances to know for parking near a fire station driveway in New York?

20 feet on the same side, 75 feet across the road.

VTL 1202(a)(2)(d) sets 20 feet from the driveway entrance and, on the opposite side when signposted, 75 feet. The manual gives the same numbers.

In New York, how far from a railroad crossing must you park?

At least 50 feet.

VTL 1202(a)(3) bars parking within 50 feet of the nearest rail of a crossing except briefly for loading, unless signs say otherwise. The manual gives 50 feet (15 m).

How far from a pedestrian safety area must you park in New York, unless another distance is marked?

At least 30 feet.

The manual says you cannot park within 30 feet (10 m) of a pedestrian safety area unless another distance is marked. VTL 1202(a)(1)(e) sets 30 feet for points opposite a safety zone.

What does a NO PARKING sign allow in New York?

A temporary stop to load or unload merchandise or passengers.

The manual says that under a NO PARKING sign you can make a temporary stop to load or discharge merchandise or passengers.

What does a NO STANDING sign allow in New York?

Only passenger pickup or drop-off; the driver stays inside.

The manual says a NO STANDING sign allows a temporary stop to load or discharge passengers, and the driver cannot exit the vehicle.

What does a NO STOPPING sign allow in New York?

Stopping only to obey a sign, signal or officer, or avoid conflict.

The manual says you can stop only to obey a traffic sign, signal or officer or to prevent conflicts with other vehicles.

If no speed limit is posted and no lower local limit applies, what is the maximum speed in New York?

55 mph.

VTL 1180(b) sets 55 mph absent another established limit, and the manual says to drive no more than 55 mph if no limit is posted. The manual warns that some cities have lower limits that are not always posted, such as 25 mph in New York City.

What is the speed limit in New York City unless another limit is posted?

25 mph.

The manual says the speed limit is 25 mph (40 km/h) in New York City unless another limit is posted. VTL 1642 lets the city set limits under the 55 mph statewide figure.

What does New York law do to the minimum fine for speeding in a work zone?

It doubles the minimum fine.

VTL 1180(h)(3) sets work zone minimums at twice the normal minimums; the maximum fines stay the same. The manual says ticket fines double, even when workers are not there, so the statute's narrower wording is used here.

What is the New York fine range for speeding 10 mph or less over a regular posted limit, outside school and work zones?

$45 to $150.

VTL 1180(h)(1)(i) sets a fine of $45 to $150 for exceeding the limit by not more than 10 mph. Separate surcharges may apply.

What following-distance rule does the New York manual recommend?

Stay at least two seconds behind the vehicle ahead.

The manual recommends the two-second rule, and three or four seconds in bad weather or behind large trucks. VTL 1129 itself requires only that following distance be reasonable and prudent.

In New York, who faces their own fine for not wearing a seat belt, and how much is it?

Drivers and passengers 16 or older; up to $50.

VTL 1229-c(3) and (5) cover drivers and passengers 16 and over, with a civil fine of up to $50. Passengers under 16 must also be restrained, but the driver is the one penalized.

What can a New York driver face for each child under 16 not properly restrained?

A $25 to $100 fine and three points.

The manual says the driver can be fined $25 to $100 and receive three points per violation. VTL 1229-c(5) sets the same fine range.

In New York, how must a child under age 4 ride in a vehicle?

In a federally approved child safety seat.

VTL 1229-c(1) and (2) require a specially designed seat meeting federal standards, with narrow exceptions for children over 40 pounds. The manual says children under 4 must be in a federally approved child seat.

In New York, how must a child aged 4 through 7 be restrained in a car with lap and shoulder belts?

In a child restraint system, such as a booster seat.

VTL 1229-c(1)(b) and (2)(c) require an appropriate child restraint system used with lap and shoulder belts for this age group. The manual describes this as a booster seat, and says a child over 4 feet 9 inches tall or over 100 pounds may use a seat belt.

In New York, what is the first-offense fine range and point penalty for using a hand-held phone while driving?

$50 to $200 and 5 points.

VTL 1225-c(4) sets a first-violation fine of $50 to $200. The DMV's cell phone page and the manual give 5 points on the driving record.

What are the maximum New York fines for portable device use: first, second and third offense within 18 months?

$200, $250 and $450.

VTL 1225-d(6) sets maximum fines of $200, $250 and $450 for first, second and third or later violations within 18 months. The manual lists the same maximums.

In New York, what blood alcohol level is driving while intoxicated per se?

.08 percent or more.

VTL 1192(2) defines driving while intoxicated as .08 of one percent or more by weight of alcohol in the blood. The manual gives the same figure.

In New York, what blood alcohol level is aggravated driving while intoxicated?

.18 percent or more.

VTL 1192(2-a)(a) sets aggravated DWI at .18 of one percent or more. The manual gives .18 percent or more.

What blood alcohol range counts as a violation of New York's Zero Tolerance rule for drivers under 21?

.02 to .07 percent.

VTL 1192-a says a person under 21 has consumed alcohol for this rule only with .02 to .07 of one percent. The manual uses the same range.

What penalties follow a first Zero Tolerance finding at a New York DMV hearing?

Six-month suspension, $125 civil penalty, $100 termination fee.

The manual lists a six-month suspension after a DMV hearing, a $100 termination fee and a $125 civil penalty. VTL 1194-a also sets the $125 civil penalty.

Under New York law, can a blood alcohol level above .05 but below .08 be evidence of impaired driving?

Yes, it can be used as evidence of impairment.

VTL 1195 makes .05 to .07 relevant evidence of impairment and .07 to .08 prima facie evidence of impairment. The manual simply calls a BAC over .05 legal evidence of impairment, so the statute's wording is the more exact one.

What are the first-offense penalties in New York for DWI with a blood alcohol of .08 or higher?

$500 to $1,000, up to 1 year in jail, at least 6-month revocation.

VTL 1193(1)(b) makes a first DWI a misdemeanor with a $500 to $1,000 fine, up to one year in jail, or both. The manual gives a minimum six-month revocation. Drivers under 21 face a minimum one-year revocation instead.

What are the first-offense penalties in New York for driving while ability impaired by alcohol (DWAI)?

$300 to $500, up to 15 days in jail, 90-day suspension.

VTL 1193(1)(a) sets a fine of $300 to $500 or up to 15 days in jail, or both. The manual lists a 90-day suspension for a first offense. Drivers under 21 face a minimum one-year revocation instead.

Under New York's implied consent law, what have you agreed to by driving in the state?

A chemical test if arrested for impaired driving.

The manual says that by driving in New York you are considered to have already given your consent to take a chemical test. VTL 1194 is the implied consent statute.

What happens to a New York driver 21 or older who refuses a chemical test, on a first refusal?

Revocation of at least one year and a $500 civil penalty.

VTL 1194(2)(d) sets a minimum one-year revocation and a $500 civil penalty, with higher amounts for repeat refusals or commercial vehicles. The manual says the license is revoked even if you are found not guilty.

Under New York's Leandra's Law, what charge can a drunk driver face with a child under 16 in the vehicle?

A Class E felony, up to four years in prison.

The manual says these drivers may be charged with a class E felony, punishable by up to four years in prison. VTL 1192(2-a)(b) covers children aged 15 or younger.

What is the New York penalty for a first conviction of having an open container of alcohol in a vehicle?

A fine up to $150 and possible 15 days in jail.

The manual gives a fine up to $150, a mandatory surcharge and possible jail of up to 15 days. VTL 1227 applies to both the operator and passengers, with an exception for passengers in vehicles carrying passengers for hire under a state or federal permit.

When does New York require headlights based on the time of day?

From a half hour after sunset to a half hour before sunrise.

VTL 375(2)(a) sets this window. The manual also requires headlights when visibility is under 1,000 feet.

In New York, must your headlights be on when your windshield wipers are in use because of rain or snow?

Yes.

VTL 375(2)(a) requires headlights at any other time windshield wipers are in use. The manual says the same for rain, snow, sleet or fog.

In New York, when must you use low beams instead of high beams?

Within 500 feet of oncoming vehicles or 200 feet of one ahead.

The manual says headlights must be on low beam within 500 feet (150 m) of an oncoming vehicle and within 200 feet of a vehicle ahead. VTL 375 gives the same distances.

In New York, do daytime running lights count as headlights when headlights are required?

No.

The manual says daytime running lights do not qualify as headlights.

How far from the nearest rail must you stop at a New York railroad crossing when a train is coming?

At least 15 feet.

VTL 1170(a) requires stopping not less than 15 feet from the nearest rail. The manual gives at least 15 feet (5 m).

What is the New York fine for a first conviction of driving around a lowered railroad crossing gate?

$250 to $400.

VTL 1170(b) sets a first-conviction fine of $250 to $400 or up to 30 days in jail, or both. The manual says it is illegal and dangerous to go around lowered gates.

What is the usual expressway speed limit in New York, and what can it be on some rural expressways?

Usually 55 mph; can be posted at 65 mph.

The manual says the expressway speed limit is normally 55 mph (88 km/h) but can be posted at 65 mph (105 km/h) in some rural areas.

How must you pass a bicyclist from behind in New York?

On the left, at a safe distance, until clear.

VTL 1122-a requires passing to the left of the bicycle at a safe distance until safely clear. The manual says the same; neither sets a specific distance in feet.

What right-of-way rule does New York give blind pedestrians with a guide dog or a white or metal cane?

Always yield when they cross at a crosswalk, even against signals.

The manual says you must always give them the right-of-way when they are trying to cross at a marked or unmarked crosswalk, even if signals or other right-of-way rules are not in their favor. VTL 1153(a) requires yielding at an intersection or crosswalk.

Which ages must wear a helmet on a bicycle in New York?

Ages 1 through 13.

VTL 1238 covers riders one or more years of age and less than fourteen, and the manual says bicyclists and passengers ages 1 to 13 must wear an approved helmet. State law also requires a helmet for anyone operating a class three e-bike.

Is it legal to sound your horn when passing a horse in New York?

No.

The manual says it is illegal to sound your horn when you approach or pass a horse.

To pass the New York written permit test, how many of the 20 questions must you get right, and how many road sign questions?

14 of 20 total, and 2 of the 4 road sign questions.

The manual says you must correctly answer at least 14 of the 20 questions, including two of the four road sign questions. This is in Chapter 1 of the manual.

Who may supervise a New York learner permit holder, at minimum?

A licensed driver at least 21 years old.

VTL 501(5)(a) requires immediate supervision by a person at least 21 with a license valid for the vehicle. This is in Part 1 of the manual (Chapter 1), which the DMV says is not on the written test.

How long must a New York class DJ learner permit be valid before the holder can get a license?

At least six months.

VTL 501-b(1)(d) requires a class DJ or MJ learner permit to have been valid at least six months, not counting suspended or revoked time. This is in Part 1 of the manual (Chapter 1), which the DMV says is not on the written test.

How many hours of supervised practice does a New York class DJ learner permit holder need before the road test?

At least 50 hours, with 15 after sunset.

The DMV pre-licensing page and VTL 502 require at least 50 hours, including 15 after sunset, certified on form MV-262. This is in Part 1 of the manual (Chapter 1), which the DMV says is not on the written test.

During what hours may a junior permit holder drive in New York City, and with whom?

5 AM to 9 PM, with a parent or instructor, dual controls.

VTL 501(5)(b)(i) limits NYC junior permit driving to these hours, under a parent, guardian, person in loco parentis, driver education teacher or driving school instructor, in a dual-control vehicle. This is in Part 1 of the manual (Chapter 1), which the DMV says is not on the written test.

Can a junior license (Class DJ) holder drive in New York City?

No.

VTL 501(3)(c) says that in the city of New York, driving shall be prohibited for Class DJ holders. The manual and the DMV graduated license page say the same. This is in Part 1 of the manual (Chapter 1), which the DMV says is not on the written test.

When may a junior permit holder drive on Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk), and with whom?

5 AM to 9 PM, with a parent, instructor or written designee.

VTL 501(5)(b)(ii) allows these hours under a parent, guardian, person in loco parentis, driver education teacher, instructor, or a person 21 or older designated in writing by a parent or guardian. This is in Part 1 of the manual (Chapter 1), which the DMV says is not on the written test.

Where may a junior license holder drive on Long Island between 5 AM and 9 PM without an accompanying adult?

Only to or from work, work-study, college, evening school or driver ed.

VTL 501(3)(a) and the manual allow unaccompanied driving only directly to or from work, a state-approved work-study program, a college credit program, a registered evening high school or a driver education course, or while doing farm work. A regular daytime high school is not listed. This is in Part 1 of the manual (Chapter 1), which the DMV says is not on the written test.

Who may supervise an upstate New York junior permit holder between 9 PM and 5 AM?

A parent, guardian or instructor aged 21 or older.

VTL 501(5)(b)(iii) limits night driving to supervision by a person at least 21 who is the holder's licensed parent, guardian, person in loco parentis, driver education teacher or driving school instructor. This is in Part 1 of the manual (Chapter 1), which the DMV says is not on the written test.

During which hours may an upstate New York junior license holder drive for any purpose without a supervising driver?

5 AM to 9 PM.

VTL 501(3)(b) lets Class DJ holders outside New York City and Long Island drive from 5 AM to 9 PM. Night driving is limited to school, work, or trips with a licensed parent or guardian. This is in Part 1 of the manual (Chapter 1), which the DMV says is not on the written test.

How many passengers under 21 who are not immediate family may a New York junior permit or license holder carry?

No more than one.

VTL 501-b limits this to one, unless a licensed parent, guardian, person in loco parentis, driver education teacher or driving instructor is along. This is in Part 1 of the manual (Chapter 1), which the DMV says is not on the written test.

Name the four Westchester County parkways where New York learner permit holders may not drive.

Cross County, Hutchinson River, Saw Mill River and Taconic State.

The DMV Learner Permit Restrictions page lists these four parkways, along with New York City park streets, TBTA bridges and tunnels, and road test areas. This is in Part 1 of the manual (Chapter 1), which the DMV says is not on the written test.

At what point total within 24 months can New York suspend a driver license?

11 points.

The DMV point system page says 11 points in 24 months may result in suspension, counted from the violation date. This is in Part 1 of the manual (Chapter 2), which the DMV says is not on the written test.

How many points does a New York conviction for passing a stopped school bus add for violations from February 16, 2026 on?

8 points.

The DMV point system page lists 8 points and its February 2026 notice says this rose from 5. This is in Part 1 of the manual (Chapter 2), which the DMV says is not on the written test.

How many points does a New York alcohol- or drug-related driving violation add for violations from February 16, 2026 on?

11 points.

The DMV point system page lists 11 points; the DMV February 2026 notice says the value rose from 0. This is in Part 1 of the manual (Chapter 2), which the DMV says is not on the written test.

How long is a New York junior license or permit suspended for one serious violation worth three or more points?

60 days.

The manual says a junior permit or license will be suspended for 60 days after a serious traffic violation (three points or more) or two other violations. This is in Part 1 of the manual (Chapter 2), which the DMV says is not on the written test.

How long is a New York junior license or permit suspended for a first texting or cell phone conviction?

120 days.

The manual and the DMV cell phone page say a junior permit or license is suspended for 120 days after a texting or cell phone conviction. This is in Part 1 of the manual (Chapter 2), which the DMV says is not on the written test.

In New York, what does the Driver Responsibility Assessment cost for six points within 18 months?

$100 a year for three years.

The manual says six points within 18 months brings $100 a year for three years, plus $25 per year for each extra point above six. This is in Part 1 of the manual (Chapter 2), which the DMV says is not on the written test.

In New York, when must you file a crash report with the DMV when no one was injured?

When damage to one person's property exceeds $1,000, within 10 days.

VTL 605 requires a report within 10 days when damage to any one person's property is in excess of $1,000. The manual says $1,000 or more, so the statute's wording is used. Chapter 12 is outside the chapters the DMV lists as tested.