AA-137VW Form – If you operate a vessel in New York State and have been charged with refusing a chemical test under Section 49-a of the Navigation Law, the AA-137VW Form (officially titled “Waiver of Hearing – Vessel”) lets you voluntarily waive your right to an administrative hearing. This form, provided directly by the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), triggers an immediate suspension of your vessel operating privilege without a hearing.
The AA-137VW Vessel Hearing Waiver Request is the official, current form (revision 5/22) used exclusively for vessel operators. It is not for motor vehicle drivers (use AA-137W instead). Below is everything you need to know, including step-by-step instructions, penalties, submission details, and the direct free PDF download.
What Is the AA-137VW Form?
The AA-137VW is a one-page waiver form created by the New York DMV’s Division of Safety & Business Hearings. By signing it, you:
- Waive your right to an administrative hearing.
- Consent to an immediate suspension of your privilege to operate any vessel in New York State.
- Agree that the arresting officer’s testimony would prove the refusal under Navigation Law § 49-a.
The form explicitly states: “I consent to the issuance of an order by the Commissioner suspending my privilege to operate a vessel in New York State.”
It applies only after an arrest for operating a vessel while suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs, followed by a refusal to submit to a chemical test (breath, blood, urine, or saliva).
Who Should Use the AA-137VW Vessel Hearing Waiver Request?
You should consider filing the AA-137VW if:
- You received a Notice of Temporary Suspension and Notice of Hearing for a vessel chemical test refusal.
- You do not want to attend the scheduled DMV administrative hearing.
- You prefer to accept the suspension immediately rather than contest it.
This form is not for challenging the charge, requesting accommodations, or handling criminal court matters (DWI/DUI boating charges are separate).
Consequences of Signing the AA-137VW Form
Once submitted, the suspension begins on the postmark date (if mailed) or the date the DMV receives it by fax. You must pay a civil penalty before your vessel operating privilege can be restored:
- First offense — $200 civil penalty
- Second refusal within 5 years OR prior conviction under Navigation Law § 49-a within 5 years — $500 civil penalty
The suspension remains in effect until the penalty is paid and any other requirements are met. This is separate from any criminal penalties or court-ordered sanctions.
How to Fill Out the AA-137VW Form – Step-by-Step?
The form is simple and fillable. Here are the exact fields you must complete (transcribed directly from the official PDF):
- Operator’s Last Name, First Name, M.I.
- Date of Birth (Month/Day/Year)
- Sex — Check M, F, or X
- Street Address, City, State, Zip Code
- Registration or Document Number or Hull ID Number (required)
- Arrest details:
- Date of arrest
- City / Town / Village of arrest
- County
- Arresting officer’s name
- Police agency
- Vessel identification — “I was operating a vessel with registration or document number (if not available, give hull ID number): _”
- Signature — Sign your full name and enter the date
No notary is required. Print clearly or type. Do not leave any fields blank.
Where and How to Submit the AA-137VW Form?
Mail or fax the completed form immediately to:
Division of Safety & Business Hearings
6 Empire State Plaza
Albany, NY 12228
Phone: (518) 474-1509
Fax: (518) 473-8505
The DMV recommends submitting as soon as you receive your hearing notice. The earlier you send it, the sooner the suspension starts (and potentially ends if you pay the penalty quickly).
Important Tips for Using the AA-137VW Form
- Submit before the scheduled hearing date to avoid an automatic default suspension.
- Keep a copy of the signed form and proof of mailing/fax.
- The waiver is irrevocable once received by the DMV.
- This does not affect your criminal boating case in court.
- If you have questions, call the Division of Safety & Business Hearings at (518) 474-1509 (they do not provide legal advice).
Download the Official AA-137VW PDF
Get the latest, official version directly from the New York DMV:
→ Download AA-137VW Form (PDF): https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/aa137vw.pdf
The file is free, secure, and hosted on the official dmv.ny.gov website. Always download from this link to ensure you have the current revision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the AA-137VW Form still current in 2026?
Yes. The New York DMV continues to list and distribute AA-137VW (5/22) as the active form for vessel hearing waivers.
Can I use this form for a car or motorcycle license?
No. Use the separate AA-137W form for motor vehicle chemical test refusals.
What if I change my mind after signing?
Once the DMV receives the waiver, the suspension takes effect and cannot be undone by simply retracting it. You would need to follow the full restoration process.
Do I need an attorney to file the AA-137VW?
No. The form is designed for self-submission, but consulting a boating/DWI attorney is recommended if you want to fight the underlying charges.
Will this show on my record?
Yes. The suspension and civil penalty will appear on your New York vessel operating record.
Final Thoughts
The AA-137VW Vessel Hearing Waiver Request provides a quick, official way to accept the consequences of a chemical test refusal without attending a DMV hearing. By understanding the form, penalties, and submission process, you can make an informed decision and avoid missing deadlines.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official New York DMV website and the PDF linked above. If your situation involves complex factors (multiple refusals, prior convictions, or pending court cases), contact the Division of Safety & Business Hearings or seek legal counsel.
Direct Download: https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/aa137vw.pdf
Stay safe on the water — and drive (or boat) responsibly.