VS-145 Form: Official Requirements for Registered Repair Shops (PDF)

VS-145 Form – The VS-145 Form from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV) is the essential checklist for anyone applying to become a registered motor vehicle repair shop or body shop. Titled “Repair Shop Requirements,” this official one-page document outlines every mandatory item needed to avoid application denial. Whether you’re opening a traditional repair facility, a body shop, a drive-in appraisal center, or a mobile repair shop on wheels, the VS-145 ensures compliance with New York Vehicle and Traffic Law and DMV Commissioner’s Regulations Part CR-82.

Updated as of August 2024 (VS-145 8/24), the form remains the current official version. You can download the latest VS-145 PDF directly from the NY DMV website here: https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/vs145.pdf.

What Is the VS-145 Form and Who Needs It?

The VS-145 Form is not an application itself but a mandatory requirements checklist referenced in every repair shop registration application (Form VS-1 series). The NY DMV requires all prospective registered repair shops to meet these standards before issuing a certificate. This applies to:

  • Traditional repair shops
  • Body repair shops (where over 50% of work is body repair)
  • Drive-in appraisal centers
  • Mobile repair shops

Failing to include every item listed on VS-145 results in immediate denial of your application. The form cross-references the full Motor Vehicle Repair Shop Regulations (CR-82) and Vehicle and Traffic Law §398-d for complete operational rules.

Why the VS-145 Form Matters for New York Repair Shop Owners?

New York strictly regulates motor vehicle repair shops to protect consumers and ensure safety. Registration with the DMV is mandatory for any business that repairs or diagnoses vehicles for compensation. The VS-145 Form serves as your official roadmap, helping you:

  • Gather the correct documents upfront
  • Avoid costly delays or rejections
  • Comply with zoning, tax, insurance, and environmental rules
  • Prepare for on-site inspections (especially for mobile shops)

Without proper registration, operating a repair shop is illegal and can result in fines, shutdowns, or legal action.

Complete List of VS-145 Repair Shop Requirements

Here is the exact checklist from the official VS-145 PDF (verbatim where possible for accuracy). All items must be met or your application will be denied:

  1. Proof of business name
    • Corporation or LLC: Filing Receipt from NYS Department of State plus percentage of stock ownership for each officer.
    • Partnership or individual using an assumed name: Notarized “Business Certificate of Assumed Name” (DBA) filed with the county clerk + phone bill showing business name at the business address.
  2. Copies of driver licenses or government-issued ID for all owners, officers, or members.
  3. New York State Department of Taxation and Finance Certificate of Authority (DTF-17A) or valid NYS tax ID number.
  4. Application fees paid by check or money order (payable to “Commissioner of Motor Vehicles” – starter checks not accepted).
  5. Signed and completed application (stamped signatures not accepted).
  6. Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN). If you have employees (as defined by Worker’s Compensation), attach proof of Worker’s Compensation and Disability Insurance coverage.
  7. Proof of Zoning (must be less than 10 years old) from the local municipality allowing an automotive repair business at your location.
  8. Certificate of Occupancy required for Queens, Kings, Richmond, Bronx, and New York counties. Must state the exact location of the auto repair business.
  9. Manufacturer’s certificate or invoice proving ownership of approved motor vehicle refrigerant recycling/recapturing equipment (required by §398-c of NYS Vehicle & Traffic Law).
  10. Unique and exclusive mailing address verifiable with USPS, with exclusive use of your mail receptacle.
  11. Physical location for mobile repair shops where the repair vehicle is parked at night.

Additional supporting documents (such as proof of property permission) are detailed on the main application forms and VS-146 (Zoning Requirements Letter).

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Using the VS-145 Checklist

  1. Read the regulations – Download and study CR-82 and VS-145 before starting.
  2. Choose your application form – Use VS-1R (repair shop), VS-1RI (repair + inspection), etc.
  3. Gather every VS-145 item listed above.
  4. Complete proof of zoning using VS-146 guidelines.
  5. Submit everything by mail to: Bureau of Consumer and Facility Services, Application Unit, New York State DMV, P.O. Box 2700, Albany, NY 12220-0700.
  6. Wait for review – The DMV processes complete applications and may require an on-site inspection for mobile shops.

Once approved, you receive your official repair shop registration certificate and must display the green-and-white “Registered State of New York Motor Vehicle Repair Shop” sign.

How to Download the Official VS-145 PDF?

Direct download link (always current):
VS-145: Repair Shop Requirements (PDF)

You can also find it on the official NY DMV page: Open a Repair or Body Shop.

  • CR-82 (Motor Vehicle Repair Shop Regulations PDF) – Full legal rules for operations, estimates, invoices, and signage.
  • VS-146 – Repair Shop Zoning Requirements Letter.
  • VS-1 series – Original Facility Application forms.
  • MV-901C – Garageperson’s Lien instructions.

All forms are free on the NY DMV website under Forms & Publications.

Common Mistakes That Lead to VS-145 Application Denial

  • Missing the refrigerant recycling equipment proof
  • Submitting zoning documents older than 10 years
  • Using a PO Box instead of a verifiable physical mailing address
  • Forgetting Worker’s Compensation proof when you have employees
  • Incomplete business name documentation (especially DBAs)

Double-check the VS-145 checklist before mailing your package.

Operating a Registered Repair Shop: Key Rules from CR-82

After approval, you must:

  • Provide written estimates when requested
  • Obtain customer authorization before exceeding estimates
  • Keep detailed repair records
  • Display your registration certificate and required signage

These rules protect both shop owners and consumers.

Frequently Asked Questions About VS-145

Is VS-145 the same as the application form?
No. VS-145 is the requirements checklist; the actual application is the VS-1 series.

Do mobile repair shops have extra requirements?
Yes – item #11 on VS-145 plus an on-site DMV investigation.

How long does approval take?
Processing time varies; submit a complete package to avoid delays.

Where do I send my VS-145 package?
Bureau of Consumer and Facility Services, P.O. Box 2700, Albany, NY 12220-0700.

For the latest information, always refer to the official NY DMV website, as requirements can be updated.

Ready to open your registered repair shop? Download the VS-145 PDF today and start gathering your documents: https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/vs145.pdf. Compliance with the VS-145 Form is your first step toward a successful, fully legal New York auto repair business.

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