AA-71 Form – If you’re a franchised motor vehicle dealer in New York dealing with a dispute against your franchisor (manufacturer), the AA-71 form is the official way to request a formal hearing before a New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) administrative law judge. This form triggers an adjudicatory proceeding under Article 17-A of the Vehicle and Traffic Law (the Franchised Motor Vehicle Dealer Act).
The latest version is still available directly from the official NY DMV website as a fillable PDF. You can download it here: https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/aa71.pdf (revised 1/19 and remains the current form as listed on the DMV forms page).
What Is the AA-71 Form?
The AA-71 (full title: Franchised Motor Vehicle Dealer Request for Adjudicatory Proceeding) is a specialized DMV form used exclusively by licensed franchised new motor vehicle dealers. It allows you to ask the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles to schedule a formal administrative hearing when you believe your franchisor has violated provisions of Article 17-A of the Vehicle and Traffic Law.
This is not a general complaint form. It is a legal request that starts a formal adjudicatory proceeding, complete with due process, evidence presentation, and the possibility of an automatic stay of certain franchisor actions (under Vehicle and Traffic Law §§ 463(2)(e)(1) and 465(7)).
Who Should Use the AA-71 Form?
- Franchised new motor vehicle dealers registered with the NY DMV
- Dealers who have a current franchise agreement with a manufacturer/franchisor
- Dealers who have a grievance involving unfair practices, termination threats, relocation demands, warranty issues, or other violations of the Franchised Motor Vehicle Dealer Act
Independent used-car dealers, repair shops, or non-franchised businesses cannot use this form.
Purpose of the AA-71: Protect Dealer Rights
New York’s Article 17-A law protects dealers from certain unfair practices by manufacturers. When informal negotiations fail, filing AA-71 requests a neutral DMV hearing where an administrative law judge reviews evidence and can order specific remedies (other than monetary damages).
Key benefits:
- Triggers an official administrative proceeding
- May activate an automatic stay (halting franchisor actions like termination or relocation until the case is resolved)
- Provides a structured, lower-cost alternative to court litigation
Step-by-Step: How to Complete and File the AA-71 Form?
The form itself contains clear instructions. Here is the exact process:
- Prepare your statement
Write a short, plain statement of facts showing how the franchisor violated specific sections of Article 17-A. Clearly state the exact remedy you are requesting (do not ask for damages). - Gather required attachments
- All relevant correspondence between you and the franchisor
- A copy of your current franchise agreement
- Any other supporting documents
- Proof of service on the franchisor (certificate of service)
- Serve the franchisor
Simultaneously serve an exact copy of the completed AA-71 plus all attachments on the franchisor (use the method allowed in your franchise agreement or certified mail, return receipt requested). - Pay the filing fee
Include a non-refundable $2,000 certified check or money order payable to “Commissioner of Motor Vehicles.” - Mail the package
Send the original AA-71, all documents, and the fee to:
NYS Department of Motor Vehicles
Division of Safety and Business Hearings
6 Empire State Plaza
Albany, NY 12228
Telephone for questions: (518) 474-1509
Fax: (518) 473-8505
Important Deadlines and Notes
- The $2,000 fee is non-refundable even if you withdraw or lose.
- Service on the franchisor must occur on the same day you file with the DMV.
- Use additional sheets if needed for your statement.
- The form is dated AA-71 (1/19) but remains the active version listed on the official DMV site.
Where to Download the Official AA-71 PDF?
Direct official download (free, no registration required):
https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/aa71.pdf
Always download directly from dmv.ny.gov to ensure you have the most current version. Third-party sites may have outdated or altered copies.
Related Resources
- Full list of NY DMV business forms: dmv.ny.gov/forms-and-publications
- General information on DMV hearings for regulated businesses
- Vehicle and Traffic Law Article 17-A (Franchised Motor Vehicle Dealer Act)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I request damages on the AA-71?
No. The form explicitly states you must request a specific remedy other than damages.
Is the $2,000 fee refundable?
No — it is non-refundable.
How long does the process take?
Hearings are scheduled after proper filing and service; timelines vary based on the Division of Safety & Business Hearings caseload.
What if my franchise agreement has a different dispute process?
You may still use AA-71; the law gives dealers this statutory right regardless of franchise terms.
Final Tip for Dealers
Before filing, consult your attorney experienced in motor vehicle franchise law. The AA-71 starts a formal legal proceeding with significant consequences for both sides.
Need the form right now?
Click here to download the official AA-71 PDF: https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/aa71.pdf
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles website. This guide is based on the official form instructions and DMV publications as of 2026.