You can fill out our online registration form at any time.
The form will be sent to a member of our Crime Prevention team, who will complete the necessary paperwork and then contact you to arrange a convenient time for you to visit our office with your item and pick up your registration sticker.
At your appointment, a member of DPS will affix your bicycle, scooter or skateboard with a registration number and keep that information on record in the event of a theft.
If you do use a bicycle, please keep these important safety recommendations in mind:
- Obey traffic signs and signals – Bicycles must follow the rules of the road like other vehicles.
- Always wear your helmet – Bicyclist’s 14 years old and younger are required to wear a helmet when operating a bicycle. The helmet must conform to the standard established by the American National Standard Institute (ANSI), the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) or Snell Memorial Foundation (Snell) at all times.
- Never ride against traffic – Motorist’s aren’t looking for bicyclists riding on the wrong side of the road. State law and common sense require that bicyclists drive like other operating vehicles.
- Don’t pass on the right – Motorist’s may not look for or see a bicycle passing on the right.
- Keep both hands ready to brake – You may not stop in time if you brake one-handed. Allow extra distance for stopping in the rain, since brakes are less efficient when wet.
- Scan the road behind you – Learn to look back over your shoulder without losing your balance or swerving. Some riders use rear-view mirrors.
- Never operate a bicycle wearing headphones, talking on a cell phone or text messaging – Wearing headphones, talking on a cell phone or text messaging when operating a bicycle can be a deadly distraction. Be alert to your surroundings; stop your bicycle when sending or receiving a cell phone call or text message.
- Follow lane markings – Don’t turn left from the right lane. Don’t go straight in a lane marked “right-turn only.”
- Do not consume alcohol – Consuming alcohol and operating a bicycle do not mix. Alcohol can dramatically diminish a bicyclist’s cognitive and physical abilities and can result in a crash.
- Dress appropriately – In rain, wear a poncho or a waterproof suit. Dress in layers so you can adjust to temperature changes. Wear brightly colored clothing.
- Use hand signals – Hand signals tell motorists and pedestrians what you intend to do. Signal as a matter of law, of courtesy and of self-protection.
- Ride in the middle of the lane in slower traffic – Get in the middle of the lane at busy intersections and whenever you are moving at the same speed as traffic.
- Choose the best way to turn left – There are two choices: (1) Like an automobile: Signal to move into the left turn lane and then turn left. (2) Like a pedestrian: Ride straight to the far side crosswalk. Walk your bike across.
- Make eye contact with drivers – Assume that other drivers don’t see you until you are sure that they do. Eye contact is important with any driver who might pose a threat to your safety.
- Look out for road hazards – Watch out for parallel-slat sewer grates, gravel, ice, sand or debris. Cross railroad tracks at right angles.
- Use lights at night – New York law requires a white headlight (visible from at least 500 feet ahead) and a red rear reflector or taillight (visible up to 300 feet from behind).
- Keep your bike in good repair – Adjust your bike to fit you and keep it working properly. Check brakes and tires regularly. Routine maintenance is simple and you can learn to do it yourself.
Safety tips provided by New York State Department of Transportation.
For questions, call the Department of Public Safety at 315.443.2224.