DMV says the online pre-licensing course is for people who are at least 18, hold a valid New York photo learner permit, and have a device that connects to the internet. It is about 5 hours. It does not give driving lessons, and it does not reduce points or insurance.
- Online students do not receive an MV-278. The provider reports completion, usually within 48 hours.
- Drivers under 18 use a classroom or live distance course, which starts at 16.
- A 48-hour high school or college driver education program can meet the requirement instead.
- DMV lists American Safety Inc as an online provider in English and Spanish.
Questions
Will this 5-hour course give me 10% off insurance?
No. That benefit belongs to the 6-hour Point and Insurance Reduction Program.
Do I bring a certificate to the road test?
Not if you took the online course. DMV says the scheduling system will not ask for a certificate after the provider reports completion.
Sources
Checked against those public pages on November 5, 2026.