DS-7 Form – The DS-7 form, officially titled Request for Driver Review, is a New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV) document used by concerned citizens to report a driver who may be unable to operate a vehicle safely. It is specifically designed for individuals who are not law enforcement officers or physicians.
This two-page form triggers a review through the DMV’s Medical Review Unit or Driver Re-Evaluation Program when there are reasonable grounds to believe a driver has a medical condition affecting safe driving. The goal is to protect public safety on New York roads.
Who Should Use the DS-7 Form?
Use the DS-7 form if you are a private citizen (such as a family member, neighbor, or friend) who has observed unsafe driving behavior that appears linked to a possible medical condition. Examples include confusion while driving, sudden medical episodes, vision issues, or other impairments.
- Law enforcement must use Form DS-5 (Police Agency Request for Driver Review).
- Physicians must use Form DS-6 (Physician’s Reporting Form).
The DMV will not process incomplete or unsigned DS-7 forms.
Why File a DS-7 Request for Driver Review?
Filing a DS-7 helps the DMV identify drivers who may no longer meet the qualifications to hold a license under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 506. The review process allows the reported driver to prove they can drive safely through exams, medical documentation, or re-testing. If they cannot, the DMV may suspend or revoke the license.
This form is part of the DMV’s broader Medical Review Program, which prioritizes road safety without automatically removing privileges based on age alone.
How to Download the DS-7 Form PDF (Free & Official)?
The most current version of the DS-7 form (revised 6/21) is available directly from the official NY DMV website:
Direct Download: https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/ds7.pdf
Always download from the official source to ensure you have the latest, fillable PDF. Third-party sites may have outdated or altered versions.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filling Out the DS-7 Form
The DMV requires all four parts to be completed with factual details. Here’s exactly how to fill it:
Part 1: Identification of the Driver
- Full name, date of birth (or approximate age)
- Complete address
- Vehicle details (make, color, license plate number)
Part 2: Your Identification (Reporter)
- Your full name, date of birth, and 9-digit NYS DMV Client ID (from your driver license or non-driver ID)
- Your address and daytime phone number
- Your relationship to the driver (e.g., child, spouse, neighbor, other)
A DMV representative may contact you for more information.
Part 3: Reasons for the Report (Most Important Section)
Provide specific incidents, observations, dates, times, and locations. Vague statements will not trigger action.
You may also list up to four other witnesses with contact information.
Part 4: Certification
Sign and date the form. You certify that the information is true and understand false statements may be punishable by law.
Tip: Print clearly or type in the fillable PDF. Use the original signed paper form — copies are not accepted.
Where to Submit the Completed DS-7 Form?
Mail the original signed form to:
Medical Review Unit
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
6 Empire State Plaza, Room 337
Albany, NY 12228
The DMV does not accept DS-7 forms by phone, email, or online submission.
What Happens After You Submit the DS-7 Form?
Once received, the Medical Review Unit reviews the report. If there are reasonable grounds, the DMV may require the driver to:
- Submit medical reports
- Take a vision or road test
- Undergo a medical examination
The driver has an opportunity to demonstrate they are qualified to drive. Outcomes can include license restrictions, suspension, revocation, or no action if the driver proves fitness.
Is Your Identity Protected When Filing DS-7?
Yes. The DMV does not disclose the name of the person who filed a DS-7 form in response to a Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) request when the report concerns a medical condition. This provides strong confidentiality protections for concerned citizens.
Related DMV Forms for Driver Review
- DS-5 → Police Agency Request for Driver Review
- DS-6 → Physician’s Reporting Form
- MV-80U.1 → Used in some medical clearance situations
Always use the correct form for your situation.
Important Tips for a Successful DS-7 Submission
- Be factual and specific — include dates, locations, and observable behaviors.
- Provide vehicle details if possible to help identify the correct driver.
- Keep a copy of your completed form for your records.
- Understand that the review process may take time and could result in the driver losing driving privileges.
- This is not for reporting traffic violations or minor complaints — it is strictly for medical or physical ability concerns affecting safe driving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the DS-7 Form
Can I submit the DS-7 anonymously?
No — you must provide your name, signature, and contact information. However, your identity is protected from public FOIL disclosure in medical-condition cases.
Is there a deadline for submitting the DS-7?
No, but act promptly if you believe a driver poses an immediate safety risk.
What if the driver I report is a family member?
The form is commonly used by family members. Your relationship must still be disclosed in Part 2.
Will the DMV tell me the outcome?
The DMV generally does not update reporters on individual case outcomes due to privacy rules.
For the latest official instructions, always refer to the NY DMV website pages on the Medical Review Program and Driver Re-Evaluation Program.
Direct PDF Link (2026 Current Version): Download DS-7 Form Here
Filing a DS-7 form is a responsible step any New York driver or citizen can take to help keep roads safer. Use the official form and provide clear, factual information for the best results.