The process that will allow Dominicans in New York to exchange their driver’s licenses issued in the Dominican Republic for those provided by the United States is set to begin next September, said New York State Senator Luis Sepúlveda, the advocate of the law that supports it, to Diario Libre.
“We anticipate that in the next three to four weeks, we will be able to start the process over there,” stated the representative of New York’s 32nd District in an interview with this media outlet.
American drivers traveling or living in the Dominican Republic
If this proceeds as expected, the legislation, which also allows the exchange of state licenses for Dominican ones, would commence almost a year after the originally proposed start date.
Sepúlveda attributed the delay in implementation to the adaptation processes within the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offices to accommodate the new law.
The process has taken a bit of time because New York State has over 800 Department of Motor Vehicles offices – known here as the Intrant (Instituto Nacional de Tránsito y Transporte Terrestre) – and it’s necessary to train all the individuals involved in the license exchange process.
This is why it has taken a bit longer than expected. However, I am confident that by September, we will begin the process, and it will be a great success,” stated the senator.
The New Legislation: A Path to Success
Law S.4329-A / A.3935-A was signed in August 2023 by Governor Kathy Hochul during a visit from President Luis Abinader to celebrate the Dominican Day Parade in Manhattan.
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This law grants the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) the authority to forge agreements with governments outside the United States, allowing new residents from those countries, such as the Dominican Republic, to exchange their valid driver’s licenses for a New York license.
Points of the New Law for Drivers
- Training: Extensive training is required for the personnel involved in the license exchange process.
- Collaboration: The DMV will work closely with foreign governments to facilitate the exchange.
- Implementation Timeline: The process is expected to commence by September, ensuring a smooth transition.
This legislation marks a significant milestone in making it easier for new residents to integrate into the state, and it is anticipated to be a tremendous success.
This mutual agreement allows interested individuals to make the switch without having to take any theoretical exams or driving tests; they only need to pay the corresponding taxes.
Comparable Licensing Process for drivers
The DMV must determine that the other country involved in the agreement has a “comparable licensing process”, which includes both knowledge and driving tests.
Eligibility for License Exchange
The exchange of licenses will only apply to drivers who are over 18 years old and will be limited to standard licenses. Commercial licenses for heavy vehicles and motorcycle licenses are excluded from this agreement.
Implementation Delay
According to Telemundo 47’s news portal, the homologation process was set to take effect in November 2023, about three months after signing. However, when a state assemblyman was questioned during a visit to Diario Libre in December, he mentioned that it had not yet occurred due to pending requirements and the need for formal agreements to be signed.
Many Dominicans eagerly await the opportunity to exchange their licenses, but according to Assemblyman Manny de los Santos, the state is not yet prepared for this process.
Current Status of the License Exchange Project
At that time, De Los Santos, who originally introduced the project alongside Sepúlveda, pointed out that the preparations at the DMV are the primary reason for the delay.
Support and Efforts for Implementation
Sepúlveda defended the project, assuring that efforts are being made to bring it into effect. He emphasized the commitment of New York authorities to ensure its execution.
During his visit to Diario Libre this week, Sepúlveda reiterated the importance of the legislation: “We are waiting for the results, but I know that the outcome of this project will be a great success for the Dominican Republic, the economy here, and for the lives of people living in New York.”