5-Hour Pre-Licensing Course in NYC

Official DMV-Approved In-Person /Virtual Class at VMARE Driving School

Are you ready to take your New York road test? At VMARE Driving School, we specialize in offering the 5-Hour Pre-Licensing Course — a required step for all new drivers in New York State.

This course is taught in a supportive, classroom-style environment by certified instructors who are committed to helping you become a safer, more confident driver.

What is the Pre-Licensing Course?

The 5-Hour Pre-Licensing Course (also known as the "5-hour class") is mandatory for all new drivers in New York who have a Learner’s Permit and are ready to schedule their road test.

Even if you've completed Driver’s Education (Driver’s Ed), you are still required to take this course if your Driver’s Ed certificate has expired before your road test.

Course Highlights:

  • Required by the New York State DMV

  • Virtual or in-person classroom format only (no online options at VMARE)

  • Completion earns the MV-278 Pre-Licensing Course Certificate

  • Certificate is valid for 1 year

  • Taught by experienced, DMV-certified instructors

Who Needs This Course?

You must take the 5-Hour Pre-Licensing Course if:

  • You hold a New York Learner’s Permit

  • You are preparing to schedule your road test

  • You previously completed Driver’s Ed, but your certificate is no longer valid

  • You have not taken any formal driving course yet


What We Offer (and Don’t Offer)

At VMARE Driving School, we ONLY offer the Pre-Licensing Course. We do not currently offer full Driver’s Ed programs, which typically include 24 hours of classroom learning and 24 hours of behind-the-wheel training.

Instead, we focus on helping students meet the immediate requirements to move forward with their licensing process in New York State.

What to Expect in Our Classroom-Style 5-Hour Class

When you attend the classroom-style class at VMARE, you can expect:

  • A DMV-approved curriculum covering driving laws, safety tips, road signs, and defensive driving strategies

  • A relaxed and engaging environment to ask questions and learn

  • Guidance on what to expect during your New York State road test

  • Issuance of your MV-278 certificate upon successful completion

After the Course: Your MV-278 Certificate

Upon completing the 5-hour class, you’ll receive a Pre-Licensing Course Completion Certificate (MV-278). This certificate is required when scheduling your road test appointment through the DMV.

  • Valid for 1 year

  • Must be presented when you take your road test

  • Students under 18 must also submit an MV-262 Supervised Driving Certification, signed by a parent or guardian

Why Choose VMARE Driving School?

  • DMV-Approved Pre-Licensing Course

  • Virtual or In-Person Classes — Ideal for Focused Learning

  • Friendly, Certified Driving Instructors

  • Convenient NYC Location

  • Fast Turnaround on Certificates

Register Today

Ready to book your seat in the 5-hour course and take the next step toward your New York driver’s license?

Spaces fill quickly — reserve your spot today!

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Understanding Driver's Education vs. Pre-Licensing Courses in New York State

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Automatic Fails on the NY Driving Test & How to Avoid Them