Visiting drivers may legally drive in New York State with a license from another state or country. When is it Acceptable to Drive with a Foreign Driver’s License in New York? Under state law, a resident is one who lives in this state with the intention of making it a fixed and permanent abode or maintains a place of abode in this state for a period of at least 90 days. You do not need to apply for a New York State driver’s license unless you become a New York State resident. New York State Department of Motor Vehicles allows visitors to drive using their home country's license. Interested in driving in the Big Apple with your foreign license? With millions of visitors each year, New York City is one of the busiest cities in the world. Can I Drive with a Foreign License in New York?