VS-1PROV Form – The VS-1PROV form (full title: Provisional Dealer Registration and Inspection Station License Application) is the official New York State DMV document that franchised new motor vehicle dealers use to obtain expedited provisional approval. It lets qualified dealers begin operations quickly after submitting their full Original Facility Application (VS-1). The form is available as a free PDF download directly from the NY DMV website.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the VS-1PROV form in 2026, including who qualifies, how to complete it, required fees, supporting documents, and the approval process. All information comes from official NY DMV sources and the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association (GNYADA).
What Is the VS-1PROV Form?
The VS-1PROV is a specialized one-page application used only by applicants for a New Motor Vehicle Dealer registration under Section 415 of the New York Vehicle and Traffic Law. It requests provisional status for both:
- New Motor Vehicle Dealer Registration
- Inspection Station License
Once approved, dealers receive a provisional package (including MV-50 books, safety inspection certificates, and a provisional approval letter) and can legally operate while awaiting the full on-site investigation and permanent certificates.
The current version of the form is revised 5/24 and must be attached to a completed VS-1 Original Facility Application. It is not for used-car dealers, wholesalers, motorcycle-only dealers, or other facility types.
Who Needs the VS-1PROV Form?
Only franchised new car dealers (new motor vehicle dealers as defined in VTL §415) qualify for provisional registration via VS-1PROV. It is designed for situations such as:
- Purchasing or acquiring an existing new-car dealership location
- Opening a new franchised dealership location
The provisional process gives dealers the ability to begin selling vehicles, issuing plates, and performing inspections immediately after closing or application approval — significantly faster than the standard full-review timeline.
Non-franchised or used-vehicle dealers must use the standard VS-1 process without the provisional option.
Key Benefits of Provisional Dealer Registration
- Speed: Operate legally in provisional status right after DMV approval (before the on-site inspection).
- Supplies included: Receive starter kit with MV-50 books, inspection certificates, and provisional approval letter via FedEx.
- Compliance: Allows time to prepare for the full Vehicle Safety on-site investigation while conducting business.
- No appeal on denial: Provisional status is granted or denied without a hearing.
How to Download the VS-1PROV PDF?
Official Download Link:
https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/vs1prov.pdf
The form is always free and hosted directly on the NY DMV Forms and Publications page. Always download the latest version from the official site to ensure you have the current 5/24 revision.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Completing the VS-1PROV Form
- Business Information
Print the full business name (including DBA), physical street address, city, state, ZIP, county, business phone, and business e-mail address. - Previous Dealer Check
Indicate whether a new vehicle dealer previously operated at this location. If yes, provide the DMV facility number and closing date (if known). - Provisional License Type
Check the appropriate box(es):- Provisional New Motor Vehicle Dealer Registration
- Provisional Inspection Station License
- Fees
Check the boxes for the fees that apply (see Fees section below) and include one check made payable to “Commissioner of Motor Vehicles.” - Contact Person
Provide first name, MI, last name, phone, e-mail, and title of the person handling correspondence. - Affirmations & Signatures
- Confirm you have read and understand Part 78 (Section 78.4) and Part 79 (Section 79.7) of the Commissioner’s Regulations.
- All owners and officers listed on the VS-1 must print their name exactly as it appears on the VS-1, sign, date, and provide title. Attach additional pages if needed.
Tip: Complete the VS-1PROV after filling out the full VS-1 Original Facility Application.
Required Attachments and Supporting Documents
The VS-1PROV must be attached to a completed VS-1. Additional required documents include:
- Original sealed and signed Dealer Surety Bond (VS-3)
- Proof of permission to use the business location (lease, deed, tax bill, or notarized statement)
- Sales Tax Certificate of Authority (DTF-17A)
- Workers’ Compensation & Disability Insurance certificates
- Filing receipt from NYS Department of State (for corporations/LLCs) or County Clerk business certificate
- Franchise agreement or letter of intent from the manufacturer
- Photocopies of government-issued photo ID for every owner/officer listed
- All applicable fees
GNYADA members can contact the association for assistance obtaining bonds, insurance, and applications.
Fees for Provisional Dealer Registration
Include one check for the business type(s) and one check for the VS-1PROV form itself:
- Application fee: $37.50
- Dealer Registration fee: $450
- Inspection Station License & Repair Shop Registration fee: $250
- MV-50 book (1 book): $260
All checks must be made payable to the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles. Starter checks are not accepted.
Submission Process and What Happens Next
Mail the complete package (VS-1 + VS-1PROV + all attachments + payments) to:
Vehicle Safety Services Application Unit
6 Empire State Plaza, Room 220
Albany, NY 12228-0001
Once received and approved:
- DMV sends a FedEx package with provisional approval letter, facility number, MV-50 books, and inspection certificates.
- You may begin operating in provisional status only.
- A DMV Automotive Facilities Inspector (AFI) will schedule an on-site investigation.
- Permanent certificates are mailed after successful inspection.
If denied during inspection, you must immediately return all MV-50s and inspection stickers.
Facility Requirements You Must Meet
Before and during the on-site visit, your location must have:
- Permanently mounted dealer sign (red background, white lettering, minimum 3 ft × 2 ft, visible from street)
- Dedicated business mailbox
- Display lot with clear physical barrier from other businesses
- Secure storage for MV-50s and plates
- Heat, electricity, desk, chairs, and business phone (cell OK)
- Compliance with all CR-78 dealer regulations
Frequently Asked Questions About VS-1PROV
Can used-car dealers use VS-1PROV?
No — only franchised new motor vehicle dealers.
How long does provisional status last?
Until the on-site investigation is completed and permanent certificates are issued.
Where do I find the regulations referenced on the form?
Is the VS-1PROV form free?
Yes — download it free from the official NY DMV site.
Official Resources and Contact Information
- Download VS-1PROV: https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/vs1prov.pdf
- NY DMV Dealer Page: dmv.ny.gov/business/open-a-dealership
- Forms & Publications: dmv.ny.gov/forms-and-publications
- Application Unit Phone: 518-474-0919
- GNYADA Dealer Licensing Assistance: 718-746-5900 or visit gnyada.com/dealer-licensing
For the most current requirements, always verify directly on the NY DMV website, as forms and fees are subject to change.
Ready to apply? Download the VS-1PROV form today and attach it to your VS-1 to get your franchised dealership up and running as quickly as possible under New York State law.