New York imposes strict restrictions when it comes to road safety. Before you are allowed to drive in the street of New York, you need to ace the NY driving test. On top of that, some other laws and restrictions apply. Failure to do so could subject you to legal implications. There is a Graduated License Law that restricts drivers below 18 years old who carries a junior learner permit or junior driver license. Failure to do so can lead to suspension or revocation of permit or license. The driving privilege for drivers under 18 years old varies depending on the location where they're driving in, such as in New York City, Upstate New York, and Long Island.
Understanding the difference between a junior driver license and a junior learner permit
Class D or M driver's license
The question is; are you allowed to have a class D or M license if you are below 18 years old? You are allowed to get a senior driver's license, either class D or M, if you are 17 years old and have a junior driver's license or limited junior driver's license. However, you need to comply with one thing – to complete the state-approved diver education course (high school or college). To change your driver's license status from junior to senior, you have to present your junior license and student certificate of completion from the driving instructor to the DMV office. The certificate and junior license must be returned for you to receive your senior license.
Failure to change your license status from junior to senior will subject you to some restrictions until you reach 18 years old. The same restriction applies even if you already have the certification of completion with you. Another possible way is to present your certificate together with your junior permit to the licensed examiner during the road test. If you become eligible, you will instantly receive the senior license. That's the hassle-free way of upgrading your license.