Bill > S00301

This bill amends the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law to create a religious exemption for driver's license and learner's permit photograph requirements. Specifically, the bill allows individuals who have genuine and sincere religious beliefs that conflict with being photographed to obtain a driver's license or learner's permit without a photo. However, these photo-exempt licenses come with a significant limitation: they cannot be used as proof of age for entering establishments or purchasing age-restricted products. This means that while individuals with religious objections can still obtain a driver's license, they will face additional restrictions on using that license for age verification purposes. The bill aims to balance religious accommodation with practical identification and age verification needs by providing an alternative licensing option for those with specific religious convictions that prevent them from being photographed.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S301