MV-372 Form – If you want to launch a business in New York that helps drivers and vehicle owners handle DMV transactions for a fee, you must first obtain a Private Service Bureau (PSB) license. The official MV-372 form (revised October 2024) is the required Application for a License to Operate a Private Service Bureau or Open a Branch Office.
This comprehensive guide explains exactly what the MV-372 form is, who needs it, the complete application process, required documents, fees, name pre-approval rules, and post-approval obligations—all based on the latest information from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV) as of 2026.
What Is a Private Service Bureau (PSB) in New York?
A Private Service Bureau is a licensed business that assists customers for hire with securing:
- Driver licenses (including learner permits)
- Vehicle registrations
- Vehicle titles
PSBs are not official DMV agents. They help customers complete paperwork and often deliver applications to a DMV office on the customer’s behalf. Every PSB must operate under strict NY DMV rules to protect consumers and maintain accurate records.
Who Needs to File the MV-372 Form?
Any individual, partnership, corporation, or association that plans to operate a PSB (or open a branch office) must submit the MV-372 form. Driver training schools are exempt if they only perform PSB functions as part of their licensed school activities.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a PSB License Using MV-372?
Step 1: Get Your Business Name Pre-Approved (Mandatory)
Before filling out the MV-372, you must submit the PSB-3 Name Selection Form. Provide up to three name choices (plus any website or social media names). DMV will approve one.
Important restriction: Names containing “DMV,” “Motor Vehicle,” or “State” are automatically rejected to avoid public confusion.
Fax the PSB-3 to (518) 486-1931 or email it to [email protected]. Wait for written approval before proceeding.
Step 2: Gather All Required Documents
The NY DMV requires these supporting items with your MV-372 (original application only):
- Completed PSB-3 showing your approved name
- Photocopy of a valid driver license or non-driver photo ID for the owner(s) and every employee
- Sample customer receipt (use or model after official PSB-2 Sample Receipt Form)
- Completed PSB-4 Employee Roster for owners and all employees (or CE-200 exemption if you have no employees)
- Proof of current Workers’ Compensation and Disability Insurance (if you have employees)
- Business formation document: Business Certificate (X-201), Partnership Certificate (X-74), or NYS Department of State Filing Receipt (DOS-1025)
- Completed PSB-5 Private Service Bureau Security Self-Certification
- Non-refundable application fee: $25 (check payable to “Commissioner of Motor Vehicles”)
Step 3: Complete the MV-372 Form
Download the latest version:
→ Direct PDF Download: https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/mv372.pdf (MV-372, 10/24 – 4 pages)
Key sections you must fill out:
- Business name, mailing address, branch office address (if applicable)
- Type of ownership (sole proprietor, partnership, corporation, or association)
- Full names, addresses, and last 4 digits of SSN for all owners, partners, officers, and managers
- 15+ yes/no questions on prior PSB operation, criminal history, DMV employment, proximity to DMV offices (<1,500 feet), website/social media, and more
- Detailed employee/runners/agents list
- Signature and affirmation page (all owners/officers must sign; false statements are a crime)
The form also includes mandatory Terms & Conditions you agree to by signing (record-keeping, receipt wording, website disclaimer in 24-point bold type if applicable, security system, locked storage for documents and funds, etc.).
Step 4: Submit Your Package
Mail everything to:
Partnering Programs
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
6 Empire State Plaza, Room 322
Albany, NY 12228
Incomplete applications are rejected. Expect processing time before you receive your license.
Fees
- Original application: $25 (non-refundable)
- Branch office (per location): additional fee noted on form
- License renewal (every 2 years, expires June 30): $50 using form MV-372R
Ongoing Requirements After Approval
Once licensed, PSBs must:
- Use only the DMV-approved name on all materials, receipts, websites, and ads
- Issue consecutively numbered receipts with specific wording (“This is a licensed Private Service Bureau but is not an official agent of the Department of Motor Vehicles”)
- Maintain a Book of Registry for every customer
- Install security systems and use locked storage for DMV documents and funds
- Display the mandatory website disclaimer in bold 24-point type if your site offers DMV services
- Notify DMV immediately of new employees
- Comply with Part 77 of the Commissioner’s Regulations (full rules available on the DMV site)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I operate from home?
Yes, as long as you meet all security, record-keeping, and zoning rules.
Do I need fingerprints or a full background check?
The MV-372 requires detailed criminal history disclosure, but no fingerprints are currently mandated.
What if I have employees with criminal records?
You cannot employ anyone convicted of a felony or misdemeanor without specific Commissioner approval.
How long is the license valid?
Two years—expires June 30. Use MV-372R for renewal.
Where can I find the official PSB regulations?
See the NY DMV Private Service Bureau Licenses page and CR-77 document.
Ready to Get Started?
Download the current MV-372 form here:
https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/mv372.pdf
For the most up-to-date instructions and all supporting forms (PSB-3, PSB-2, PSB-4, PSB-5, etc.), visit the official page:
https://dmv.ny.gov/business/private-service-bureau-licenses
Questions? Contact the NY DMV Partnering Programs team at [email protected].
Start your PSB business the right way—file the MV-372 form correctly and stay compliant with New York DMV rules. This guide is based exclusively on current official NY DMV sources to ensure you have accurate, trustworthy information. Always verify the latest forms directly on dmv.ny.gov before submitting.