How to Get a DMV Appointment in Rochester, NY

Booking a DMV appointment in Rochester, New York, is one of the most confusing processes in the state. The most important “secret” you must know is that “DMV” services are split between two different types of offices.

Where you go depends entirely on what you need to do:

1. For your CAR (Vehicle Registration, Titles, Plates): You must go to a Monroe County Clerk’s Office (like the one in Rochester-Downtown).
2. For your first LICENSE or PERMIT (Written Test): You must go to a State-run NYS DMV Office (like the one in Henrietta or Greece).

This guide will show you how to book the right appointment at the right office, with the right documents, so you don’t make a wasted trip.

How to Book a Vehicle Appointment (Registration, Plates, Title)

Use this process if you need to register a car, transfer a title, get new plates, or surrender old plates. This is done at the Monroe County Clerk’s offices.

1. Go to the Monroe County DMV Portal: Navigate to the official county website: https://www.monroecounty.gov/dmv
2. Click “Schedule Appointment”: This will open the county’s appointment scheduler.
3. Select Your Location: Choose the office you want to visit (e.g., “Rochester (Downtown)”, “Greece,” or “Irondequoit”).
4. Select Your Service: This is the most important step. Choose the vehicle service you need:
   • “New Registration & Plates”
   • “Registration Renewal”
   • “Plate Surrender” (to return your license plates)
   • “Title Only Transaction”
5. Pick a Date and Time: A calendar will show you all available slots.
6. Enter Your Details: Fill in your name, email, and phone number.
7. Confirm & Save: You will receive a confirmation email. You must bring this to your appointment.

How to Book a Learner’s Permit or REAL ID Appointment

You CANNOT book an appointment for a new permit or written test at the Rochester-Downtown office. You must go to a State-run DMV Office. The closest major office is in Henrietta.

1. Go to the NYS DMV Website: Navigate to the official state portal: https://dmv.ny.gov/offices/
2. Find a State Office: Select “Monroe County.” You will see a list of offices. Look for the one labeled “Henrietta – NYS DMV” (or another state-run office).
3. Book Your Appointment: On the Henrietta office page, click the link to “Schedule an in-office visit.”
4. Select Your Service: Choose “Driver’s License or Non-Driver ID” and then “Permit Test” or “Get my first license/permit/ID.”
5. Follow the Steps: The state portal will guide you through picking a date, time, and confirming your details.

How to Book a Road Test Appointment

The road test has its own separate booking system. You must have a valid NYS learner’s permit to use it.

1. Go to the NYS Road Test Portal: Navigate to the official scheduler: https://dmv.ny.gov/road-test-scheduler
2. Log In: Enter your 9-digit NYS Permit Number (Client ID) and your date of birth.
3. Select a Location: The system will show you all available road test sites in the Rochester area (e.g., “Rochester – Driving Park Ave”).
4. Choose a Time: Select an available date and time. Road test slots fill up very fast, so you may need to check back often.
5. Confirm: Finalize your booking and save the confirmation.

Required Documents for Your License/Permit Appointment

When you go to your in-person appointment at the State DMV Office (like Henrietta), you must bring the official REAL ID or Enhanced ID documents.

• Proof of Identity: (e.g., U.S. Passport or Birth Certificate)
• Proof of Social Security: (e.g., Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 with your full SSN)
• Proofs of NYS Residency (TWO required):
  • You must bring TWO recent (within 90 days) documents from different sources with your name and NYS address.
  • Examples: Utility bill, bank statement, paystub, lease agreement.
• Proof of Name Change (if applicable):
  • Certified Marriage Certificate or court order.

FAQs