DMV Driver Handbook in New York

SUMMARY: New York Driver's Manual

The New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) provides various publications to help drivers, including the driver's manual, commercial driver's manual, and motorcycle handbook. If you're interested in the state's traffic laws, read the New York Vehicle Code.

The state's DMV driving manuals are an invaluable resource for new and experienced drivers alike. On this page, you'll find links to the various DMV handbooks and driving manuals designed to help you get on the road safely in New York.

NY Driver's Manual

The NY Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) provides the New York Driver's Manual (Form MV-21) online (also offered in Spanish). You can study this DMV handbook to prepare for the New York's learner's permit exam and road test. Topics in the driving manual include:

  • Applying for a New York driver's license.
  • Road signs.
  • Intersections, turns, and road signals.
  • Parallel parking.
  • What to do in the event of an accident.
  • Defensive driving techniques.

The online version of the driving manual includes interactive quizzes at end of every chapter.

Try an Online Practice Test!

When preparing for the written exam, the NY DMV manual is a great place to start, but we suggest finishing with an online practice test from our approved partner. With questions drawn from past exams, you can refresh and retake your practice test as many times as you need to feel ultra prepared for your written licensing exam.

New York Motorcycle Manual

To learn how to obtain your motorcycle license in New York, read the NY DMV Motorcycle Manual (Form MV-21 MC). This driver's handbook covers the following subjects:

  • Motorcycle safety courses.
  • Getting a NY motorcycle license.
  • Helmet and protective clothing.
  • Motorcycle controls.
  • Braking and shifting gears.
  • Switching lanes safely.
  • Motorcycle registration.

In addition to reading the motorcycle driving manual, you can take an online practice test to make sure you're ready for the DMV exam.

Commercial Driver's Manual

Before applying for a commercial driver's license (CDL) in New York, you'll need to study the NY Commercial Driver's Manual (Form CDL-10), also provided in Spanish. Topics in the CDL DMV handbook include:

  • How to apply for a New York CDL.
  • Transporting cargo and passengers safely.
  • Air brakes.
  • Hazardous materials vehicles.
  • School buses.

In addition studying the CDL driving manual, take an online practice test to prepare for the CDL knowledge exam.

Vehicle Code in New York

The New York driver handbook is not the only helpful resource available to you.

Browse through the New York Vehicle Code for details about laws related to driving in New York, such as licensing, registration, vehicle equipment, and safe driving. This will help supplement the information you find in the DMV handbook.

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