New York DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) License Forms

Every major service the DMV offers requires you to fill out more than your fair share of forms. Attempting to accomplish all this in person at the DMV office can turn an already hectic visit into a lengthy nightmare. Additionally, if you show up totally unprepared, you may need to return home to retrieve any required documents. One trip can easily turn into two, all because you weren’t prepared ahead of time to complete the process.

Fortunately, the New York DMV makes all of its 170+ forms available on its website for anyone to download, fill out, and print before they ever step foot inside a DMV office. Printing and completing your forms beforehand can make a world of a difference in the length and quality of your DMV visit, especially since you cannot book an appointment for most DMV tasks. Some of these forms can even be mailed in or submitted online (depending on what you are trying to accomplish).

The New York Drivers Manual

The New York Drivers Manual is your all-in-one guide to any- and everything related to traffic, driving, and the DMV. Within its pages, you’ll find almost everything you could ever want to know about traffic law in New York, as well as the many important processes of the DMV. The handbook is continually updated by the DMV, and is the single best resource for studying for a driving test or rekindling your knowledge of good driving habits. You can pick up a physical copy at any DMV location, or download it directly from their website.

Application for Driver License or Non-Driver ID Card (Form MV-44)

One of the most commonly used forms at the New York DMV is the Application for Driver License or ID (Form Mv-44). This form is what you will need in order to acquire your official drivers license or a legal identification card. This form also gives you an easy option to register as an organ donor, and will collect all the information that will go onto your printed ID. You’ll need to first complete the other requirements before actually getting your license, such as obtaining a learners permit and passing a road test, written test, and vision exam.

Vehicle Registration/Title Application (Form MV-82)

The Vehicle Registration/Title Application Form (Form MV-82) is what you will use when you purchase a new or used vehicle. Your car’s title acts as legal proof of ownership, and it is necessary if you ever want to sell it or transfer ownership to someone else. You also need to keep your car registered annually with the DMV in order to legally drive it. Although renewing your registration every year is a simple process which can be done online or through the mail, your initial registration requires you to complete this form in person at the DMV office. Registration and titling must be complete soon after you purchase your car, though some dealerships will take care of the titling process for you.

Change of Address (Form MV-232)

Whenever your personal information changes, such as your legal name and/or residency, it is your responsibility to inform the DMV through the proper channels so that they can complete their records. A Change of Address Form (Form MV-232) must be filled out when you move. You’ll also have the chance to purchase an updated driver’s license or learner’s permit that reflect that change. Each document carries its own separate cost for replacement.

Report of Motor Vehicle Accident (Form MV-104)

Though it may be the last thing on your mind when you get in an accident, it is very important that you report all collisions to the DMV with the proper forms. There may be disputes and disagreements down the line about exactly what happened and who was at fault, which can be a huge headache for both parties. A comprehensive report on record with the DMV will help resolve these problems. Filling out a Motor Vehicle Report (Form MV-104) can be invaluable to these situations. You will need to include personal information from both drivers involved, including information about each of their cars. The more details you include, the easier the resolution process will be for both of you.