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

With a junior permit, a driver below 18 years old can drive but with supervision. On the other hand, a junior driver's license lets young drivers driver unsupervised, but with a few restrictions. These driver's permits can be used to driving in other states provided that the state allows such a permit. If not, you could be liable to the law. If you are going to visit a particular state and plan to drive a vehicle there, you need to check with the police or motor vehicle authorities beforehand. If you are a holder of a learner permit issued by another state, you will be allowed to drive in New York's streets, provided you are not under 16 years old. One more thing, you have to see to it that the driver's license or learner permit issued by other states is valid to drive outside your home state. If it does not allow driving in other states, you cannot drive any vehicle in the streets of New York.

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.