DS-876 Form – The DS-876 form, officially titled Application for Article 19-A Certified Examiner, is a critical document issued by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV). It allows qualified individuals to apply for certification as a 19-A Certified Examiner, enabling them to administer mandatory driving tests and evaluations for bus drivers under Article 19-A of the New York Vehicle and Traffic Law.
This form is essential for motor carriers operating school buses or passenger buses in New York, as certified examiners ensure drivers meet strict safety standards for pre-employment screenings, annual defensive driving observations, biennial behind-the-wheel road tests, and biennial oral or written exams. If you’re a driving instructor, fleet supervisor, or CDL holder looking to advance your career in commercial transportation safety, the DS-876 is your gateway to official certification.
Download the official DS-876 PDF here: https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/ds876.pdf (revised May 2022 – current as of 2026).
Why Article 19-A Certified Examiners Are Essential for NY Bus Safety?
Article 19-A was enacted following a tragic 1972 school bus-train collision to establish uniform qualification standards for bus drivers. Certified examiners play a pivotal role by conducting the hands-on evaluations that medical examiners and carriers cannot perform themselves.
Without certified examiners, carriers cannot legally operate. Regulations under 15 NYCRR Part 6 require at least one certified examiner per 100 drivers. These professionals maintain highway safety by verifying driver competency in real-world conditions.
Demand remains high in 2026 for certified examiners, especially with ongoing needs in school districts, transit authorities, and private carriers across New York State.
Who Qualifies to File the DS-876 Form? Full Eligibility Requirements
Not everyone can become a 19-A Certified Examiner. The NY DMV sets strict criteria under Section 6.13 of the Commissioner’s Regulations to ensure only experienced, qualified professionals are approved.
Key requirements include:
- Valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): Must hold a CDL with appropriate passenger (P) and/or school bus (S) endorsements. You must be properly licensed in the class of vehicle (B or C) you will test.
- Clean Driving Record: No more than 6 points accumulated on your driving abstract in the preceding 18 months.
- Experience:
- Minimum 2 years in driver training and evaluation of others.
- Minimum 18 months (within the last 3 years) operating the specific vehicle type while employed by a 19-A motor carrier (or qualify for an exception with supporting documentation).
- Education/Training:
- Either a college-level driver education course (minimum 4 credit hours) or a DMV-approved 19-A Certified Examiner training course.
- Employer Endorsement: Your current 19-A carrier must sign off on the application.
- Out-of-State Applicants: Submit a certified driving record abstract from your home state.
If you meet these, you can apply for Class B or Class C certification and even opt for freelance examiner opportunities.
Step-by-Step: How to Complete the DS-876 Application for 19-A Certified Examiner?
Filling out the DS-876 is straightforward but requires precision. The two-page form must be completed in full and signed.
- Page 1 – Applicant & License Information
Provide your full name, address, date of birth, CDL details (ID number, class, endorsements, expiration), contact info, and email. Select your desired certification class (B or C) and indicate interest in freelance work. - Page 1 – Employer Details
List your current 19-A carrier’s name, Federal Employer ID Number (FEIN), and Article 19-A Business ID. - Page 2 – Experience & Education
Detail your 2+ years of driver training experience and 18-month 19-A carrier driving experience (use additional sheets if needed). Attach proof of your college course transcript or DMV-approved training certificate. - Page 2 – Employer Endorsement & Certification
Your employer must print their name, sign, and date. You certify under penalty of perjury that all information is accurate and acknowledge Article 19-A rules.
Pro Tip: Print clearly. Incomplete applications are returned, delaying your certification.
Required Supporting Documents for Your DS-876 Submission
To avoid rejection, attach these mandatory items:
- Copy of your current CDL (both sides).
- Official driving record abstract (original if out-of-state).
- College transcript or DMV-approved training course certificate.
- Additional experience documentation or exception affidavits (if applicable).
- Any other proof requested by the Bus Driver Unit.
Mail the completed DS-876 and attachments to:
Bus Driver Unit
NYS Department of Motor Vehicles
6 Empire State Plaza, Room 331
Albany, NY 12228
Do not contact the DMV until you receive written approval for the next step.
What Happens After Submitting the DS-876 Form?
Once processed by the Bus Driver Unit, approved applicants receive a notice to schedule a qualifying interview with the DMV’s Testing & Investigation Unit. This includes:
- Written knowledge test
- Vision screening
- Road test (in the appropriate vehicle class)
Successful candidates receive their official 19-A Certified Examiner certificate. Certification is not automatic—only those who pass every stage qualify.
Key Responsibilities of a 19-A Certified Examiner
As a certified examiner, you will:
- Conduct annual defensive driving performance observations (Form DS-873).
- Administer biennial behind-the-wheel road tests (Form DS-871).
- Give biennial oral or written examinations (Form DS-875).
- Maintain detailed records for carrier audits.
You must also attend a DMV-approved Article 19-A refresher seminar at least once every three years.
How to Renew or Amend Your 19-A Certification (DS-877 Form)?
Certification is ongoing. Use Form DS-877 (Application for Renewal or Amendment) to:
- Renew your certificate (must renew CDL first).
- Request a duplicate.
- Upgrade from Class C to Class B.
- Report refresher seminar completion.
- Update personal info or employers.
Renew before your CDL expires and keep your driving record clean.
Common FAQs About the DS-876 Form and 19-A Certification
How long does approval take?
Processing times vary; allow several weeks after mailing.
Can freelancers apply?
Yes—check the freelance box on DS-876 to appear on the DMV’s independent examiner list.
Is training available?
Yes—DMV-approved courses are offered by organizations like PTSI and private trainers. Search “19-A Certified Examiner Course” for current schedules.
Where can I find all Article 19-A forms?
Visit the official NY DMV Article 19-A Forms page.
Ready to Become a 19-A Certified Examiner? Download DS-876 Today
The DS-876 form is your first step toward a rewarding role in New York’s commercial bus safety system. By meeting the rigorous standards set by the NY DMV, you’ll help protect thousands of passengers daily while advancing your professional credentials.
Official Download Link: DS-876 PDF – Application for 19-A Certified Examiner
For questions, contact the Bus Driver Unit at (518) 473-9455 or [email protected]. Always use the latest official forms from dmv.ny.gov to ensure compliance.
Stay safe, drive responsibly, and help keep New York’s roads secure—one certified examiner at a time.