New York prosecutors say three DMV examiners worked with a Queens driving school to help people get licenses without taking tests — pocketing thousands of dollars in cash in the process.
It’s alleged the scheme allowed hundreds, possibly thousands, of people to bypass the driving exam process.
"Countless individuals are now driving on our roads without ever having demonstrated the basic skills to do it safely," District Attorney Michael McMahon said at a press conference on July 1.
Don’t miss
- I’m 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don’t panic. Here are 6 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast)
- Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it
- Robert Kiyosaki warns of a ‘Greater Depression’ coming to the US — with millions of Americans going poor. But he says these 2 ‘easy-money’ assets will bring in ‘great wealth’. How to get in now
According to CBS News, authorities say staff at T&E Driving School, located in Queens, worked with the DMV employees and a driver who posed as other people and took tests on their behalf. Individuals were charged between $1,600 and $2,000.
Going undercover
Authorities say the scheme was uncovered thanks to the help of an officer who went undercover as a customer.
"A short time ago, our undercover, who never took the test, was told by the school he passed and was getting a license," McMahon said.
New York’s DMV says it has begun revoking the driving privileges of customers tied to the scheme, according to CBS News. Officials said it’s possible many didn’t understand they were participating in a scam.
"These individuals often did not speak or understand English and may have believed they were taking legitimate, necessary steps," George Ioannidis of Homeland Security Investigations said at the press conference.
The broadcaster also reports the DMV examiners involved have either been fired or placed on leave without pay and are no longer conducting road tests. They’re also facing charges.
Read more: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how
Spotting a shady driving school
Driving without the proper training and testing can lead to serious public safety risk for both the driver and everyone on the road. An inexperienced or untested driver could be more likely to cause accidents or violate traffic laws.
In addition to those safety concerns, there could be legal implications for drivers who obtain licenses through shady practices — even through not fault of their own. Here are some red flags to watch for when looking for a legitimate driving school:
Unusually high fees for quick results: Be wary if the school promises a fast track to your license for a steep price.
Lack of transparency: If they won’t give you a breakdown of costs or explain the testing process clearly, that’s a warning sign.
No written contracts or receipts: Always request documentation of what you’re paying for and obtain proof of purchase.
Promises or guarantees that you’ll pass the test: Legitimate schools prepare you for the test; they don’t make guarantees or help you skip steps in the process.
Asking you to skip testing steps: If a school suggests you don’t need to take a written or road test that you know is required, it may not be operating legally.
If you’re unsure if a driving school is legitimate, contact your local DMV to verify that the school is licensed and in good standing. Driving schools can be a valuable resource for obtaining a license; just ensure you find one that operates in good faith.
What to read next
- Financial aid only funds about 27% of US college expenses — but savvy parents are using this 3-minute move to cover 100% of those costs
- Here are the 6 levels of wealth for retirement-age Americans — are you near the top or bottom of the pyramid?
- Here are 5 ‘must have’ items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?
- How much cash do you plan to keep on hand after you retire? Here are 3 of the biggest reasons you’ll need a substantial stash of savings in retirement
Money doesn’t have to be complicated — sign up for the free Moneywise newsletter for actionable finance tips and news you can use. Join now.
This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
