MV-51B Form – The MV-51B form is an official New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV) document titled Statement of Ownership for Non-Titled Vehicles, Boats, Snowmobiles and All-Terrain Vehicles. It serves as a sworn certification of ownership when standard proof of ownership or a transferable registration is unavailable.
This 2-page form (revision MV-51B 1/25, effective January 2025) is specifically designed for vehicles, vessels, or recreational equipment that New York law does not require to be titled, such as ATVs, snowmobiles, boats, limited-use motorcycles, or certain older/historical vehicles. False statements on the form are punishable under Section 210.45 of the New York Penal Law.
Why Do You Need the MV-51B Form for Non-Titled Vehicles?
You need the MV-51B when a transferable registration or title cannot be provided. The form is used in two main scenarios:
- To establish ownership for any vehicle or item not required by law to be titled (examples: ATVs, limited-use motorcycles).
- As a substitute for lost proof of ownership when registering or transferring a non-titled vehicle, boat, snowmobile, or ATV (including historical vehicles).
DMV office managers must approve the form, and additional proof of ownership may be requested. If accepted, the DMV issues a non-transferable registration document. Final title decisions rest with the Title Bureau.
Important note: The MV-51B cannot be used for abandoned vehicles. Contact your local police department instead.
Who Should Complete the MV-51B Form?
The MV-51B is required by:
- Individuals registering a non-titled vehicle, boat, snowmobile, or ATV in their own name.
- Current owners transferring ownership to a new buyer.
- Owners of historical or vintage vehicles seeking registration with special plates.
- Corporations or entities registering such property (title must be provided).
Both the new owner (for registration) and former owner (for transfer) may need to complete or sign related documents depending on possession length.
How to Fill Out the MV-51B Form Step by Step?
- Select the reason you are completing the form (check one box):
- Registering a non-titled vehicle in your name.
- Registering a historical vehicle.
- Registering a boat, snowmobile, or ATV.
- Transferring the property to a new owner.
- Provide property details (see page 1):
- Make and model
- Year
- Color
- VIN, HIN, or SVIN
- Body type or cylinders/type of power
- Unladen weight/max gross weight (if applicable)
- Year of last registration and previous plate number (or check “never registered”)
- Ownership certification:
- Date you acquired possession
- Name and address of former owner
- Reason proof of ownership is unavailable
- Sign and date as the new owner (or transferring owner). Print full name(s).
Print or type all entries in ink. The form is available as a fillable PDF for convenience.
Required Documents When Submitting the MV-51B
To register the non-titled property at any NY DMV office, bring:
- Completed MV-51B
- Bill of Sale or completed MV-51 (Certification of Sale or Transfer)
- VIN/HIN/SVIN verification (tracing, photo, or police statement)
- Completed MV-82 (Vehicle Registration/Title Application)
- Proof of name and date of birth (see ID-82)
- Insurance ID card (if required)
Special rule: If you have possessed the item for less than one year and the former owner never registered it (or lost the registration), the former owner must complete both the MV-51B and MV-51.
To transfer ownership, the former owner provides the new owner with:
- Completed MV-51B
- Bill of Sale or MV-51
Historical/vintage plate registrations follow the same process but have additional mailing options to the Custom Plates Unit.
Download the Official MV-51B PDF (Free & Current)
Direct download: MV-51B Form PDF – Statement of Ownership for Non-Titled Vehicles (Official NY DMV link, always current version).
The form is also listed on the official NY DMV “Proof of Ownership is Not Available” page and the main Forms & Publications section.
Common Questions About the MV-51B Form
Can I use MV-51B for any vehicle?
No — only non-titled vehicles, boats, snowmobiles, ATVs, or historical vehicles. Titled vehicles require standard title transfer.
Do I need a notary?
No, but the form must be signed under penalty of perjury.
What if DMV rejects my MV-51B?
The office manager makes the initial decision. Additional documentation may be required.
Is the form the same for boats and ATVs?
Yes — the single MV-51B covers vehicles, boats, snowmobiles, and ATVs.
Tips for Successful Registration with MV-51B
- Always pair the MV-51B with the companion MV-51 Bill of Sale form.
- Verify the VIN/HIN/SVIN in advance to avoid delays.
- Bring original documents — photocopies are usually not accepted for proof.
- Check the latest instructions on dmv.ny.gov before visiting a DMV office, as requirements can update.
- For historical plates, review form MV-440H or MV-440V for extra rules.
The MV-51B form simplifies ownership proof for thousands of New Yorkers every year who own non-titled recreational vehicles or older equipment. By following the official guidelines above and downloading the current PDF directly from the NY DMV, you can complete your registration or transfer quickly and legally.
For the most up-to-date information, always refer to the official New York DMV website. Safe driving (and riding)!