MV-653EM Form – If you manage vehicles for a New York State agency or political subdivision and need Emergency Management (EM) plates, the MV-653EM form is the required document. This official certification verifies eligibility for these specialized license plates, which support emergency response and official duties.
The New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) oversee this process. Below is a complete, up-to-date guide based on the current official form (revised 10/18 and still active on the DMV website).
What Are Emergency Management Plates in New York?
Emergency Management plates are special license plates issued to state agencies and political subdivisions. They identify vehicles used exclusively for official emergency management duties. These plates help responders and authorized personnel operate efficiently during emergencies, disasters, or public safety operations.
Unlike standard plates or other special plates (such as EMT custom plates or general Official plates), EM plates require specific DHSES approval for new issuances.
Important distinction: DHSES authorization is required for new EM plates but not for transferring existing ones to another eligible vehicle.
Who Needs the MV-653EM Form?
You must complete and submit the MV-653EM if:
- You represent a New York State agency or political subdivision (county, city, town, village, authority, school district, fire district, or similar government entity).
- The vehicle is owned or controlled by that agency/subdivision.
- The vehicle will be operated by employees or specifically designated agents in the course of official duties.
- The vehicle must be registered in the name of the state agency or political subdivision.
Only the highest ranking elected or appointed official can sign the form.
Note: Private organizations, individuals, or non-government entities do not qualify. Separate forms exist for Official plates (MV-653) or Volunteer Ambulance plates (MV-653V).
Eligibility Requirements for Emergency Management Plates
A vehicle qualifies only if it meets all these criteria (quoted directly from the official form):
- Owned or controlled by a state agency or political subdivision.
- Operated by its employees or specifically designated agents in the course of their official duties.
- Registered in the name of the state agency or political subdivision.
- A political subdivision includes any government entity created by or under the authority of New York State law.
The form also requires certification that all information is true and accurate.
Warning: Knowingly making a false statement on this application is a misdemeanor under the New York Vehicle and Traffic Law and may lead to criminal prosecution plus revocation of the registration.
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out the MV-653EM Form?
The MV-653EM is a concise two-page PDF. Follow these exact steps:
- Indicate your official government status — Check the appropriate box: State Agency, County, City, Town, Village, Authority, or Other Government Entity.
- Provide agency/subdivision details:
- Name of NYS Agency, County, City, Town, Village, District or Authority
- Department or Division
- Name of Department or Division Director
- Business Phone
- Business E-Mail Address (optional)
- Describe the vehicle(s):
- Year, Make, Model
- Vehicle ID # (VIN)
- Plate Number (if currently registered)
- County of Primary Use
- Check the box and use the reverse side if certifying multiple vehicles.
- If transferring an existing plate, note the current plate number.
- Sign and certify:
- Print your name, title, address, city, and ZIP code.
- Sign in full and date the certification section.
- You certify that the vehicle(s) meet all eligibility rules and that you have authority to act on behalf of the agency/subdivision.
- Leave DHSES and DMV sections blank — These are for official use only (DHSES authorization signature and DMV supervisor approval).
Download the blank form directly here: https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/mv653em.pdf
How to Submit the MV-653EM Form?
- Email the completed form to: [email protected]
- DHSES reviews and provides authorization.
- Once authorized, the DMV issues the plates.
- Questions? Email [email protected] or call DHSES at (518) 292-2200.
Pro tip: Submit early—processing involves coordination between DHSES and DMV. Keep a copy for your records.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I apply online?
No. The MV-653EM must be printed, completed, signed, and emailed to DHSES.
Do I need this form to renew or transfer existing EM plates?
No—only for new issuances. Transfers do not require fresh DHSES authorization.
Is the form current?
Yes. The official version is MV-653EM (10/18) and remains the active form listed on the NY DMV website as of 2026.
What if I have multiple vehicles?
Check the box and list all vehicles on the reverse side of the form.
Why Use the Official MV-653EM Form?
Using the correct, official form ensures fast approval and avoids delays or rejection. Emergency Management plates provide clear identification for official vehicles, supporting seamless operations during critical incidents.
Download the MV-653EM PDF Now
Direct official link: MV-653EM – Certification of Eligibility for Emergency Management Plates (PDF)
For the full list of NY DMV forms, visit the official Forms and Publications page.
Need help? Contact DHSES directly at the email or phone number above. Always verify the latest form on dmv.ny.gov before submitting.
Stay prepared—secure your Emergency Management plates with the MV-653EM today! If your agency qualifies, this simple certification unlocks specialized plates designed for New York’s emergency response needs.