MV-521.1 Form – Are you planning to open a driving school in New York or add a new owner, partner, manager, or key employee to an existing licensed school? The MV-521.1 Form (Personal History Form) is a mandatory document required by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV). This free official PDF is essential for every driving school license application.
In this SEO-optimized guide, you’ll learn exactly what the MV-521.1 form is, who must complete it, how to fill it out step by step, where to submit it, and how to download the latest version instantly.
What Is the MV-521.1 Personal History Form?
The MV-521.1 is officially titled “Personal History” and is issued by the NY DMV’s Driver Training Programs unit. Its purpose is to collect background information on individuals associated with a driving school to ensure public safety and compliance with state regulations.
Key facts:
- Current revision: December 2024 (still current in 2026)
- Length: 2 pages
- File size: ~256 KB
- Format: Fillable PDF
False statements or concealment of material facts on this form are criminal offenses and can lead to license revocation.
Who Must Complete the MV-521.1 Form?
Every person in the following roles must submit a completed MV-521.1 when applying for an original driving school license, branch license, or when becoming newly associated with a licensed school:
- Owners
- Partners
- Corporate officers
- Managers
- Agents
- Employees (other than instructors)
- Major stockholders (20% or more ownership)
Note: Driving school instructors use the separate MV-523 form for certification. This MV-521.1 is required alongside the main MV-520 Application for Original Driving School License.
Official Download: MV-521.1 PDF (Direct Link)
✅ Download the latest MV-521.1 Personal History Form here:
https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/mv5211.pdf
This is the direct official link from the NY DMV website. Always download from dmv.ny.gov to ensure you have the most current version.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fill Out the MV-521.1 Form
Print in blue or black ink or complete digitally. Attach extra sheets if needed.
1. Personal Information Section
Provide:
- Full name (Last, First, M.I.)
- Title/Position
- Social Security Number
- Home and business phone numbers
- Date of birth & place of birth
- Driver license ID number & expiration date
- Home mailing address
- Name and address of the driving school business
2. Employment History (Last 5 Years)
List most recent first:
- Business name and address
- Job title/description
- Dates employed (month/year)
- Reason for leaving
3. Yes/No Questions (10 Questions)
Answer every question truthfully. For any “Yes” answer, provide a full explanation on page 2 (include the question number).
Questions cover:
- Previous names used
- Convictions for perjury or false statements related to Vehicle & Traffic Law
- Current charges/court proceedings
- Traffic violations (non-parking)
- License suspensions/revocations
- Affiliation with other driving schools
- Prior denial/revocation of driving school license or instructor certificate
- Recent paid driver training instruction
- Point & Insurance Reduction Program instruction
- Connection to any previously revoked/suspended driving school
4. Photograph Requirement
Attach a recent photo (taken within the past 30 days):
- Size: 1 7/8″ wide × 2″ long
- Shows shoulders, neck, and uncovered head only
- True likeness
5. Certification & Notarization
- Print and sign your name
- Date the form
- Have it notarized (Notary Public signature and number required)
Where to Submit the MV-521.1 Form?
Mail the completed MV-521.1 with your full application package to:
NYS Department of Motor Vehicles
Driver Training Programs
6 Empire State Plaza, Room 327
Albany, NY 12228
Include it with:
- MV-520 (Application for Original Driving School License)
- Proof of business location (lease + Certificate of Occupancy)
- MV-523 (for each instructor)
- All required fees ($50 application + $50 license fee)
Any changes to information on the form must be reported in writing within 10 days to the same address.
Related NY DMV Forms for Driving School Licensing
- MV-520 – Application for Original Driving School License
- MV-523 – Application for Driving School Instructor Certificate
- MV-521 – Application to Amend a Driving School License (requires new MV-521.1 for added individuals)
All forms are available free on the official NY DMV Driver Training Programs page: Open a Driving School.
Common Questions About the MV-521.1 Form (FAQs)
Q: Is the MV-521.1 form free?
A: Yes – completely free from the official NY DMV site.
Q: Can I fill it out online?
A: The PDF is fillable, but you must print, sign, notarize, attach a photo, and mail it.
Q: How long does processing take?
A: DMV does not publish exact timelines; submit well in advance of opening your school.
Q: Do out-of-state owners need extra documents?
A: Yes – attach government-issued ID or recent driver record.
Q: What happens if I make a mistake?
A: Minor errors may delay approval. False information is a criminal offense.
Final Tips for a Successful Driving School License Application
- Double-check every “Yes” explanation.
- Ensure the photo meets exact specifications.
- Keep copies of everything you submit.
- Verify your business location complies with local zoning and Certificate of Occupancy rules.
Ready to start your New York driving school? Download the MV-521.1 form now and begin your application today.
Official Download: MV-521.1 Personal History Form PDF
For the complete licensing checklist and all required forms, visit the NY DMV’s official page: Open a Driving School.
Questions? Contact Driver Training Programs at (518) 473-7174 or email via the DMV website. Good luck with your driving school license!