AA-33 Form: Traffic Violations Bureau Appeal (Download PDF)

AA-33 Form – If you’ve recently been convicted of a non-criminal moving violation at a New York Traffic Violations Bureau (TVB) hearing and believe the decision or penalty was unfair, the AA-33 form provides a straightforward way to appeal. This essential document, officially known as the Traffic Violations Bureau Appeal Form, allows drivers to challenge guilty determinations or penalties imposed by TVB judges. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the AA-33 form, including its purpose, how to fill it out, submission requirements, and tips for success. Whether you’re dealing with a speeding ticket, failure to yield, or other traffic infraction in New York City or eligible areas, understanding this process can help protect your driving record and avoid unnecessary fines or license suspensions.

As of 2026, the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) continues to handle these appeals efficiently, with options for both mailed submissions using the AA-33 form and online filing for added convenience. Keep reading to ensure your appeal is filed correctly and on time.

What Is the AA-33 Form?

The AA-33 form is a standardized PDF document provided by the New York DMV for appealing convictions from TVB hearings. TVB handles non-criminal moving violations, such as speeding, red light violations, or improper turns, primarily in New York City and select upstate areas like Rochester and Buffalo. Unlike criminal traffic offenses, these are administrative matters resolved through DMV hearings rather than courts.

The form allows you to request a review of either:

• The guilty determination and the associated penalty (requiring a hearing transcript).
• The penalty only (fine or license sanction), while accepting the guilty finding.

This appeal process does not involve a new hearing or personal appearances; instead, the DMV Appeals Board reviews the existing record and your submitted arguments. It’s important to note that filing an appeal does not automatically stay (pause) any license suspension or revocation—you must specifically request this and provide valid reasons.

When and Why Should You Use the AA-33 Form?

You should use the AA-33 form if you’ve been found guilty at a TVB hearing and want to challenge the outcome. Common reasons for appealing include:

• Belief that the judge’s decision was not supported by the evidence or law.
• Excessive penalties that seem disproportionate to the violation.
• Procedural errors during the hearing, such as improper evidence handling.

However, you must act quickly: Appeals must be filed within 30 days of the conviction or hearing date. Late submissions are automatically rejected. Additionally, you must pay any fines or surcharges from the conviction upfront, as non-payment can lead to immediate license suspension unrelated to the appeal.

This form is not for appealing criminal traffic tickets or violations handled outside the TVB system, such as in local courts. For those, different procedures apply.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filling Out the AA-33 Form

Completing the AA-33 form accurately is crucial to avoid rejection. Type or print clearly, and ensure all required sections are filled. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Personal and Violation Details: Enter your full name, date of birth, NYS driver license ID number, mailing address, phone, and email. Include violation specifics like the violation type, date, fine amount, ticket number, conviction date, hearing judge (ALJ), speed (if applicable), hearing location, time, and date.
2. Attorney Information (If Applicable): If represented by a lawyer, provide their name, address, email, and phone.
3. Appeal Type Selection: Check one box only—either for a full review (guilty determination and penalty, requiring transcript) or penalty-only review. For full reviews, you’ll need to pay a $40 transcript deposit directly to the transcription company within 30 days of receiving instructions from the Appeals Board.
4. Stay Request: If seeking to pause a license suspension, explain your reasons in the provided space (attach extra pages if needed).
5. Appeal Arguments: Clearly state your reasons for appealing in the designated section. Be concise but thorough, referencing evidence or legal issues. Attach additional pages if necessary.
6. Signature and Affirmation: Sign and date the form, affirming under penalty of perjury that the information is true and no prior appeal has been filed.

Make copies of everything for your records before submitting.

Submission Process and Fees

To submit:

• Mail the completed, signed AA-33 form and a $10 non-refundable fee per ticket (check or money order payable to “Commissioner of Motor Vehicles”) to: NYS DMV Appeals Board, P.O. Box 2935, Albany, NY 12220-0935.
• Do not send cash. For multiple tickets, use separate forms but combine fees in one payment and mail in one envelope.
• A $35 penalty applies for bad checks.

Alternatively, for single-ticket appeals, file online at dmv.ny.gov/WebAppeals to skip mailing. The Appeals Board will acknowledge receipt within 20 days; contact them if you don’t hear back.

What Happens After You Submit the AA-33 Form?

Once filed, the Appeals Board reviews your case without a rehearing or new evidence. If requesting a transcript, you’ll receive payment instructions—failure to pay limits the review to the penalty only. Decisions are typically mailed, and if successful, dismissed convictions may result in fine refunds. Update your address in writing if it changes, as all notices go to the provided address.

The process can take several months, so patience is key.

Tips for a Successful Traffic Violations Bureau Appeal

• Act Fast: File within 30 days to avoid automatic denial.
• Gather Evidence: Reference hearing exhibits or request them via FOIL from the DMV.
• Be Specific: In your arguments, focus on legal errors or inconsistencies rather than rearguing facts.
• Pay Fines Promptly: Send payments separately to DMV Traffic Violations Division, P.O. Box 2950-ESP, Albany, NY 12220-0950.
• Consider Professional Help: An attorney can strengthen your appeal, especially for complex cases.
• Avoid Common Mistakes: Double-check for completeness, signatures, and timely payment to prevent rejection.

Download the AA-33 PDF

Ready to appeal? Download the latest AA-33 form directly from the official New York DMV website: https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/aa33.pdf. Ensure you’re using the most current version (as of June 2024) to comply with DMV requirements.

Appealing a TVB conviction with the AA-33 form can be a game-changer for your driving record. By following this guide and using official resources, you’ll increase your chances of a favorable outcome. If you have more questions, visit the NY DMV website or consult a traffic attorney for personalized advice. Safe driving!