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61 reasons not to go to the DMV

Did you know that there is a whole list of things you do not need to do in person and can, in fact, do online with the DMV's website? Here's 61 of them!

The DMV isn't a fun place and that's especially so when you only have a little update to make, so here's a list of links to things you can actually do online.

Change address and check document mailing status

This is the important stuff that we all forget to do. There are other VERY IMPORTANT AND FEDERALLY MANDATED things you need to do if you're on a visa when you change address too!

License and permits

Here's the list of things that you're probably going to need more than most other bits.

I've written a fair bit about how to get your learner's permit by the way! It's not a difficult process but it's important that you study, set up all the documents you need, and take your time when answering questions.

If you've been driving for a while, know that you should use your common sense for almost all of them!

Non-Driver IDs

These are handy if you don't want to sit a test yet and just need proof of who are you (without carrying around a foreign license or your passport).

More information about non-driver ID cards.

Driving privilege and penalties

Tickets issued in New York City

What did you do!? Well here's how to go through the motions if you've received a ticket. If you're on a visa or here temporarily, be sure to check through this as quickly as possible because you don't want to send a routine case that should disappear after you pay an expiation notice into a court that could expel you from the country!

More information about tickets, points and penalties.

Other transactions

Some handy extras!

Do you own a car? Well there's things here for you too!

Registrations

Make sure you're registered or you'll be hit with a hefty fine!

Inspections

See more information about New York State inspection requirements.

Insurance

Important, so very important. Do not drive without insurance and check it regularly!

See more information about New York State vehicle insurance.

Plates

Do you want a plate that says “AMJOSH4LYF”? You can do that here!

Titles

Buying? Selling?

When you change your address for vehicle registration, they also update the title certificate record.

See more information about New York State vehicle titles.

Other vehicle-related transactions and information

Here are some handy things that can put all the car owners minds at ease!

Receive a text and/or email for your registration and inspections by signing up for electronic reminders.

Your own driving records

Sometimes you will be asked to obtain your driving record (for insurance for example). Here's how!

Crash (accident)

Had an accident? Well here's how to make sure you've got everything you need!

Non-DMV transactions

Lastly, there are a few DMV-adjacent things that you can do online which will save you some time!

Find more information about DMV online transactions, and for general DMV information visit, dmv.ny.gov. It's a horrible place, and the website isn't spectacular, but it's better than nothing!

Josh Pugh

Josh Pugh

Josh is a business founding, digital marketing focused, charity driving, community builder from South Australia, living in New York City. After moving in 2017, Josh realized that there was an opportunity to curate and help the community of expats who moved to the United States – and launched America Josh. Josh is also the President of Variety – the Children's Charity of New York, Secretary at The Mateship Foundation, and Founder & CEO at Fortnight Digital.View Author posts

2 thoughts on “61 reasons not to go to the DMV”

  1. In PA you cannot renew your licence online when you get a new or extended E3 status. You must visit the DMV. If you have ever visited a DMV this is a painful process. Also, if you extend your status internally, and there are delays getting the paperwork, you may have 240 days to legally stay in the country but you can not drive as the DMV will not renew your licence until the new status is approved! This is a major pain in the rear end when there are no trains or subways, and buses are infrequent in your area.

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