MV-349 Form – Losing a loved one is difficult, and handling their vehicle transfer in New York adds stress. The MV-349 form (officially titled “Transfer of Vehicle Registered in Name of Deceased Person”) provides a simplified way for eligible next of kin to transfer ownership of a vehicle valued at $25,000 or less without full probate. This guide explains everything using the latest official New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV) sources, including the direct PDF download link.
Whether you’re searching for “MV-349 PDF,” “NY DMV transfer vehicle deceased owner,” or “how to use MV-349 form next of kin,” this article covers eligibility, step-by-step instructions, required documents, submission process, fees, and FAQs to help you complete the transfer quickly and correctly.
What Is the MV-349 Form?
The MV-349 is a notarized affidavit created specifically for next of kin. It allows transfer of a motor vehicle owned by a deceased person at the time of death, provided the vehicle is worth $25,000 or less.
You use it along with the properly completed title (or transferable registration) and a copy of the death certificate. The form is available as a free PDF from the official NY DMV website and was last revised in August 2021 (still current as of 2026).
Important distinction: This is not the same as form MV-349.1 (for surviving spouses or minor children under 21). MV-349 is strictly for next of kin when there is no surviving spouse or minor children.
Who Can Use the MV-349 Form? Eligibility Requirements
You can only use the MV-349 form under these strict conditions (all must apply):
- No surviving spouse
- No surviving minor children (under age 21)
- No will to be offered for probate
- No Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration have been or will be secured
- The vehicle is the only one being transferred this way
- Vehicle value is $25,000 or less
If any of these conditions are not met (e.g., there is a surviving spouse, a will, multiple vehicles, or value over $25,000), you cannot use MV-349. You must instead use MV-349.1 (spouse/guardian), go through full estate probate, or obtain court documents.
The form includes an affidavit where you swear the statements are true and agree to indemnify other eligible relatives if needed.
How to Fill Out the MV-349 Form: Step-by-Step Instructions?
- Print your information — Your full name, county, and complete mailing address.
- Deceased person details — Full name, date of death, and your relationship to the deceased.
- Answer the yes/no questions:
- Did the deceased leave a will?
- Has/will it be probated?
- Did the deceased own any other motor vehicles?
- Vehicle value being transferred?
- Is the spouse of the deceased living?
- Is the surviving spouse disqualified under Section 5-1.2 of the Estates, Powers and Trusts Law? (If yes, attach documentation.)
- Vehicle details — Plate number, year/make, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
- Transferee information (if transferring to someone else) — Their name and mailing address.
- Affidavit section — Read and agree to the statements. Sign in full (no initials).
- Notarization — Have it sworn before a Notary Public or Commissioner of Deeds.
Warning: Intentionally providing false information is a criminal offense.
Print clearly or type the form. Download the official blank PDF below.
Required Documents for MV-349 Vehicle Transfer
According to the official NY DMV checklist (form MV-843, revised October 2025), you need:
- Completed MV-82 (Vehicle Registration/Title Application) signed by the new owner
- Proof of name and date of birth (see ID-82 requirements; originals at office, copies if mailing)
- Original New York title or transferable registration in the deceased’s name (complete Section 1 on the back with odometer/salvage disclosure)
- If title is lost: Apply for duplicate using MV-902 first
- Lien release (if any)
- MV-349 form (notarized)
- Photocopy of the death certificate (or certification of death)
- Proof of insurance in the new owner’s name
- Sales tax forms (DTF-802 or DTF-803) if applicable
- If mailing for title: FS-6T receipt
Note: Out-of-state titles generally cannot use MV-349 without court documents from that jurisdiction.
Step-by-Step Process to Transfer the Vehicle
- Confirm eligibility for MV-349 (use the checklist above).
- Gather all documents and complete the title transfer section.
- Fill out and notarize MV-349.
- Complete MV-82 as the new owner.
- Obtain proof of insurance and any sales tax paperwork.
- Submit everything (details below).
- Receive new title and registration in the transferee’s name.
Where and How to Submit the MV-349 Application?
- In person — Any NY DMV office (find locations at dmv.ny.gov).
- By mail — For title processing only: Department of Motor Vehicles Title Bureau, PO Box 2750, Albany, NY 12220-0750.
Bring or mail the full packet. The new owner must handle registration if plates are transferred or new ones issued.
Fees for MV-349 Transfer
- Title fee: $50
- Plate transfer (non-spouse): $10 + any weight difference
- New plates: $25 + 2-year registration fee
- No fee for the MV-349 form itself
- Surviving spouse plate rules are different (often no charge for transfer)
Checks payable to “Commissioner of Motor Vehicles” — leave amount blank if submitting in person.
Important Notes and Warnings
- This simplified process avoids probate only under the exact conditions listed.
- Manufactured homes, boats, snowmobiles, etc., cannot use MV-349 or MV-349.1.
- Always verify vehicle value independently.
- Update insurance immediately and notify the DMV about the deceased’s license/plates separately (use MV-215 for refunds).
MV-349 Form FAQ
Can I use MV-349 if there is a will?
No — only if no will is being probated.
What if the vehicle is worth more than $25,000?
Full probate or executor documents required; MV-349 cannot be used.
Do I need to transfer plates too?
Yes, handled with the MV-82 at submission.
Is MV-349 the same as MV-349.1?
No — MV-349.1 is for surviving spouses or guardians of minor children.
Where do I download the official MV-349 PDF?
Direct link: https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/mv349.pdf
Download the Official MV-349 PDF Here
Direct download: https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/mv349.pdf (official NY DMV source – always use the latest version from the site).
For the full checklist, also download MV-843: https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/mv843.pdf
Final Tips
The MV-349 form offers a straightforward path for qualifying next of kin to handle vehicle transfer after a death in New York. Always cross-check your situation against the official NY DMV page “If a Family Member Has Passed Away” (dmv.ny.gov/more-info/if-a-family-member-has-passed-away) before proceeding, as rules are strict to protect all heirs.
This information is based on the most current official NY DMV documents available in 2026. For personalized advice, consult the DMV directly or an estate attorney. Safe travels ahead — and our condolences if you’re dealing with this situation.