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You previously completed Driver’s Ed, but your certificate is no longer valid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