MV-527 Form – If you’re opening, renewing, or operating a licensed driving school in New York State, the MV-527 form (officially titled List of Driving School Vehicles) is a mandatory document. This one-page PDF ensures every vehicle used for driver instruction, road tests, or any school-related business meets strict safety, insurance, and registration standards set by the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn exactly what the MV-527 is for, who must file it, how to complete it correctly, vehicle equipment rules, and how to download the latest version instantly.
What Is the MV-527 Form?
The MV-527 is the official New York DMV form titled List of Driving School Vehicles. It requires driving schools to:
- List every vehicle used for instruction, road tests, or any activity that represents the school to the public.
- Certify that each vehicle is properly insured, equipped per Commissioner’s Regulations, and compliant with all laws.
Key facts about the current form:
- Latest revision: MV-527 (10/25) — updated October 2025 and fully current.
- All vehicles must be registered in the exact name of the driving school.
- A stamped, DMV-approved copy must be carried in the vehicle at all times during driving school business.
Who Needs to Submit the MV-527 Form?
Every DMV-licensed driving school in New York must file MV-527 if they use vehicles for:
- Behind-the-wheel instruction
- Road tests
- Any advertising or solicitation that could lead the public to believe the vehicle belongs to a driving school
This includes new applicants and existing schools that add, drop, or replace any vehicle.
When Must You File MV-527?
Submit the form in these situations:
- With your original Driving School License Application (MV-520).
- With every Driving School Renewal Application (MV-522).
- Immediately after licensing whenever you add, drop, or replace a vehicle.
Failure to keep the list current can result in road test denials or license issues.
Download the Official MV-527 PDF (Free & Direct)
Get the most current version straight from the New York DMV:
→ Download MV-527 Form (PDF): https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/mv527.pdf
The file is only 223 KB and prints perfectly on standard letter-size paper. Always use the official DMV link above — third-party sites may have outdated versions.
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out the MV-527 Form
The form is straightforward. Here’s exactly what to do:
- Driving School Information
- Name of Driving School
- Business Address (Street, City, State, Zip Code)
- Owner/Authorized Representative
- Print full name and title
- Sign and date
- Vehicle List (use additional pages if needed)
For each vehicle, enter:- Year of Vehicle
- Make and Model
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- License Plate Number
- Registrant (must exactly match the driving school name)
- Attach Required Photos (new requirement in 10/25 revision)
You must include clear photos of:- Exterior (license plates, registration & inspection stickers, VIN plate, make/model)
- Interior (showing additional rear-view mirror, dual brake controls, and seat belts)
- Sign the Certification
Your signature affirms that every vehicle meets all legal and equipment standards.
Pro tip: Keep a copy of the stamped form in every school vehicle — DMV road test examiners will ask for it.
Vehicle Equipment & Certification Requirements
By signing MV-527, you certify each vehicle:
- Is and will remain properly insured for driving school use
- Is equipped according to Commissioner’s Regulations Part 76.11
- Has an additional rear-view mirror for the instructor
- Has dual controls on the foot brakes (except certain Class A/B/C vehicles)
- Has working seat belts (where required)
- Complies with all advertising rules (Part 76.21)
- Is operated lawfully and has no unpaid toll violations
Special notes:
- Tractor-trailer combinations need a trolley brake or similar device instead of dual foot brakes.
- Class A, B, or C vehicles need an extra side-view mirror for the instructor.
Warning: Knowingly making a false statement on MV-527 is a criminal offense and can lead to revocation of your driving school license.
Where to Submit the Completed MV-527?
Mail the form (plus photos and any required attachments) to:
Department of Motor Vehicles
Driver Training Programs
6 Empire State Plaza, Room 327
Albany, NY 12228
Processing includes a stamped approval copy returned to you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use my personal vehicle for driving lessons?
No — all vehicles must be registered in the driving school’s name.
Do I need a new MV-527 every time I renew my license?
Yes — attach the current vehicle list with your MV-522 renewal.
What happens if I show up for a road test with an unlisted vehicle?
The student will not be allowed to take the test, and the vehicle will not be permitted on site.
Is the form available in Spanish or other languages?
The official version is English only; no translated versions are provided by DMV.
Final Tips for Driving School Owners
- Update your MV-527 the same day you change vehicles — don’t wait.
- Keep digital and printed copies of the stamped approval.
- Combine with other required forms (MV-520, MV-522, MV-521.1, etc.) when applying or renewing.
- Always download directly from dmv.ny.gov to ensure you have the October 2025 revision.
Ready to get started?
Download the official MV-527 PDF now: https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/mv527.pdf
For full driving school licensing instructions, visit the official NY DMV pages:
- Open a Driving School
- Renew a Driving School License
Stay compliant, keep your students safe, and keep your driving school license in good standing with the MV-527 form — the essential vehicle certification document every New York driving school needs.