Show All Answers

1. How can I avoid waiting in line at DMV?

Schedule an appointment to complete your transaction at the DMV.  At this time, appointments are required.  Schedule here:  https://cortlandcountydmv.setmore.com/ 

Consider utilizing a local drop box or the drive thru for your transactions.

2. Where are drop boxes located and what can I use them for?

Drop boxes are located in Cortland (County Courthouse) and at the Town Halls in Homer, Cortlandville and Marathon. All renewals can be processed by utilizing drop boxes.

3. Am I required to register my boat?

Any boat that is powered by a motor and operated on public waterways must be registered in New York State. Registration is required even if the motor is not the primary means of propulsion.

Bring the completed application for a Boat Registration and/or Title (form MV-82-B), completed Sales Tax (form DTF-802) or proof of exception or tax paid, proof of ownership, ID, and bill of sale to the DMV office. Your trailer must be registered as well.

4. Am I required to register my snowmobile or ATV?

Each snowmobile operated in New York State must be registered unless it is used exclusively on the owner's private property or on private property that the snowmobile's owner has a contractual right to use.

Bring the completed application for snowmobile registration (form MV-82SN), completed Sales Tax (form DTF-802) or proof of exception or tax paid, proof of ownership, ID and bill of sale. ** Your trailer must be registered as well and a helmet must be worn.**

Any ATV driven anywhere in New York State, even solely on private property, must be registered (except those used only for agricultural purposes or private, not-for-hire snowplowing). ATV's can only be operated on public lands posted for ATV use and on private property only with the landowner's permission.

Bring the completed "Registration/Title Application" (form MV-82), completed Sales Tax (form DTF-802) or proof of exception or tax paid, proof of ownership (usually the mfr. statement of origin, bill of sale, or previous registration signed over to you) and ID. Insurance is required on ATV's unless driven solely on your own property. Be prepared to show proof of insurance upon request of a judge, police officer or a person claiming to have suffered injury or property damage.

5. Do I need to notify DMV if I move?

You must notify DMV of your move within 10 days. You can do this by using a change of address form (form MV-232), by telephoning our office at 607-753-5023, or in person at the DMV Office.

6. How do I notify DMV about a name change?

You must visit your DMV office and bring ID and the court marriage or divorce papers to prove your name change. The fee to receive a new license with the name change is $12.50. There is no fee for a new registration document for a current registration; current registration and title must be submitted.

7. What if I fail to surrender my plates when I no longer have insurance?

If you do not have insurance coverage and you do not immediately surrender your plates to the DMV, your license and registration will be suspended indefinitely. Avoid this by taking your plates to DMV before your liability insurance lapses!

8. What are the New York State motor vehicle liability insurance requirements?

A motor vehicle registered in N.Y.S. must be covered by automobile liability insurance. Coverage of a minimum of $25,000 / 50,000 for injury, $50,000 / 100,000 for death and $10,000 for property damage from any one accident. NYS is a no-fault state.

9. How long does it take for the certificate of title to be mailed to me?

On the average, it takes two months if a New York State title is submitted, and about three months if the vehicle has an out-of-state title.

10. When I renew my driver’s license, how long does it take for my photo license to arrive?

Your photo license will arrive in about two to three weeks.

11. What is the quickest way to renew my Driver's License?

Immediately: Visit the DMV to renew
1-2 Weeks: Drop boxes are available in Cortland (County Courthouse) and the Town Halls in Homer, Marathon and Cortlandville.
3-4 Weeks: Mail to Albany

12. What forms of payment do you accept?

The DMV accepts credit/debit cards, cash, checks and money orders. All checks and money orders are payable to the Cortland County Clerk. Split payments will not be accepted.

13. Do I need an appointment to take a written exam?

Written exams are conducted for Learner's Permits, CDL's and Endorsements. Tests are conducted Monday - Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm.  At this time, an appointment is necessary to take an exam.  Book your appointment:  https://cortlandcountydmv.setmore.com/

14. What are the ID requirements for a permit, license or non-driver ID?

Visit the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles website for a list of acceptable documents, what criteria the document satisfies and the point value. Identification Requirements