VS-100 Form – The VS-100 Form from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV) provides official step-by-step instructions for registering a homemade motor vehicle. Whether you built a custom car, truck, motorcycle, kit car, dune buggy, or another unique vehicle from new or used parts, this form explains exactly how to get it legally titled and registered for road use in New York.
Download the official VS-100 PDF here: https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/vs100.pdf (Form VS-100, revised 10/20 – still the current version as of 2026).
This guide is based directly on the official NY DMV document and the DMV’s registration page, ensuring the most accurate and up-to-date process for homemade vehicle registration in New York.
What Is the VS-100 Form and Who Needs It?
The VS-100 Form outlines the complete process for titling and registering a homemade motor vehicle in New York State. A homemade vehicle is one you construct or assemble yourself using new or used parts for personal use — not a rebuilt factory vehicle or one built for resale.
You must use the VS-100 process if your vehicle is:
- A passenger car, truck, or motorcycle you built from scratch or kits
- A custom or unique vehicle with special construction
- An amphibious vehicle, dune buggy, or similar homemade design
Note: Homemade trailers use a different form (VS-105). The VS-100 is strictly for motor vehicles.
Contact the Vehicle Safety Technical Analyst at (518) 474-5282 (option #4) if you’re unsure whether your project qualifies as a homemade vehicle.
Why the VS-100 Process Is Required for Homemade Vehicles?
New York requires safety and identification verification for all homemade vehicles before they can be driven on public roads. The DMV evaluates each vehicle for proper equipment, weight, and compliance with state standards. Only after successful inspection and VIN assignment can you register and title the vehicle.
Key reasons for the VS-100 process:
- Ensures highway safety
- Assigns a legal Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Allows issuance of a title certificate and registration
- Verifies proof of ownership for all major components
Not every homemade vehicle is approved — strict safety and equipment standards apply.
Step-by-Step Instructions from the VS-100 Form
Follow these exact steps as detailed in the official VS-100 instructions:
Step 1: Plan Your Project
Identify whether you are building a passenger vehicle (car), commercial vehicle (truck), or motorcycle. Keep all original proofs of ownership, bills of sale, and receipts in the name of the person who will register/title the vehicle.
Step 2: Obtain the Application Package
Request the full application package (including Form MV-272.1 and equipment certification forms) by mail or phone:
- Mail: New York State DMV, Vehicle Safety Technical Services, 6 Empire State Plaza, Room 220C, Albany, NY 12228
- Phone: (518) 474-5282 (select option #4)
Step 3: Complete Vehicle Construction/Assembly
Build the vehicle to meet all applicable New York equipment and safety standards (detailed in the application package).
Step 4: Obtain a Weight Certificate
Take the completed vehicle (towed — it cannot be driven) to a certified scale and get an official weight ticket. Locate a licensed weighmaster through the NY Department of Agriculture and Markets at (518) 457-3146 or [email protected].
Step 5: Take Vehicle Photographs
Provide four clear photos showing the front, rear, and both sides of the finished vehicle. Digital photos are recommended for possible email follow-up.
Step 6: Submit Documents to Vehicle Safety Technical Services
Mail these items to:
- New York State DMV, Vehicle Safety Technical Services, 6 Empire State Plaza, Room 220C, Albany, NY 12228
Required documents:
- Completed and signed equipment certification form
- Four vehicle photographs
- Photocopies of all proofs of ownership, bills of sale, and receipts for major components
- Photocopy of the weight certificate
Important: Not all vehicles will be approved for registration.
Step 7: Submit VIN Application to Division of Field Investigation
Mail these items to:
- New York State DMV, Division of Field Investigation, 6 Empire State Plaza, Room 433, Albany, NY 12228-0433
Required:
- All copies of completed Form MV-272.1 (Application for Vehicle Identification Number)
- Photocopies of proofs of ownership and receipts
- $25 check or money order payable to “Commissioner of Motor Vehicles”
The $25 fee is non-refundable. You can submit this early, but approval is not guaranteed.
Step 8: Attend the Vehicle Examination
The DMV will notify you of the exam date, time, and location. Tow or transport the vehicle — it cannot be driven.
At the exam:
- Present original ownership documents (they will be returned)
- If approved, a VIN yellow sticker is affixed and Form MV-272.1 is validated
- Fax or mail a copy of the validated MV-272.1 to Vehicle Safety Technical Services (fax: 518-473-9903)
Once approved, you will receive Form VS-103 (Notice of Registration Acceptability) by mail.
Step 9: Get the Safety Inspection
Take Form VS-103 to an official inspection station (vehicle must be towed). The inspector will complete the form if the vehicle passes.
Step 10: Apply for Registration and Title
Visit any NY DMV issuing office with:
- Form VS-103 (Notice of Registration Acceptability)
- Original validated Form MV-272.1
- Completed Form MV-82 (Vehicle Registration/Title Application)
- Proof of identity and date of birth (see ID-82)
- Original proofs of ownership and receipts
- Proof of insurance
- Proof of sales tax paid (or exemption)
- Original weight certificate
- Payment for registration, title, plates, and any fees
You cannot register without the completed VS-103. Once approved, you’ll receive your title, registration, and plates.
Important Requirements and Tips for Success
- Towing only: The vehicle cannot be driven until fully registered and inspected.
- Proofs of ownership: Keep originals for all major parts; photocopies go to DMV.
- VIN assignment: The $25 fee covers the VIN application and examination.
- Digital photos: Speed up the process by using email-friendly images.
- Timeline: Plan extra time — the multi-step approval process can take weeks or months.
- Fees: Expect registration fees, title fees, sales tax, and the $25 VIN fee.
Where to Find the VS-100 Form and Related Resources?
- Official VS-100 PDF: Download here
- DMV Homemade Vehicle Page: Register a Custom or Homemade Trailer or Vehicle
- Trailer version: Use VS-105 instead
Always verify the latest forms directly on the NY DMV website, as procedures are subject to change.
Frequently Asked Questions About VS-100 Homemade Vehicle Registration
Q: Can I register a kit car with the VS-100?
A: Yes — kit cars and other custom-built vehicles fall under the homemade category if assembled for personal use.
Q: What if my homemade vehicle is not approved?
A: The DMV will explain deficiencies. The $25 VIN fee is non-refundable.
Q: Do I need insurance before registration?
A: Yes — proof of insurance is required at the final registration step.
Q: Where do I get the VIN sticker?
A: It is assigned and affixed during the official vehicle examination.
Q: Is the VS-100 form still current?
A: Yes. The October 2020 version remains the official form linked on the NY DMV website in 2026.
Registering a homemade vehicle in New York takes careful planning and documentation, but the VS-100 Form makes the process clear and straightforward. Download the PDF, follow the steps exactly, and you’ll soon be driving your custom creation legally on New York roads.
For the most current information, always refer to the official New York DMV website and the VS-100 PDF. Safe building and happy driving!