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The New York Request Form, also referred to as the MV-15, serves as a vital tool for individuals seeking certified Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) records. Specifically designed for both personal and third-party requests, the form outlines clear steps and requirements for users. When requesting their own DMV records, residents need to provide basic personal information, specify the types of records they are interested in, and submit the appropriate identification. Alternatively, if requesting another person’s records, additional permissions and certifications must be completed to ensure compliance with privacy regulations. The form caters to a variety of record types, including driving abstracts, ticket dispositions, and vehicle registration histories, enabling users to efficiently order the documentation they need. Furthermore, certain exemptions are available for government agencies and nonprofit organizations, allowing them to bypass fees under specific conditions. Proper completion and submission of this form to the relevant DMV office ensures that individuals can access their driving history or that of others while adhering to state privacy laws.

New York Request Example

REQUEST FOR CERTIFIED DMV RECORDS

INSTRUCTIONS FOR ORDERING YOUR OWN DMV RECORD

To order your own DMV record, but not a title record, use this checklist to complete all of the requirements listed below. (Read about title records in the note at the bottom of this section.) You must:

Provide the name and address of where to send your record(s) in Step 1 .

Provide your name, address and signature in Step 2 .

Check the box next to each type of record that you want and provide as much search information as possible in Step 3 .

Enclose an acceptable form of payment according to the instructions in Step 4 .

Include a photocopy of your driver license or government-issued identification card with this request form or have your signature notarized in Step 5 .

NOTE: Sometimes, title (vin) abstracts may contain the names of other individuals, so you must check one or more of the permissible uses that are listed and sign the certification in Step 5 .

INSTRUCTIONS FOR ORDERING ANOTHER PERSON’S DMV RECORD

To order another person’s DMV record, use this checklist to complete all of the requirements listed below. You must:

Provide the name and address of where to send the record(s) in Step 1 .

Provide your name and address in Step 2 .

Check the box next to each type of record that you want and provide as much search information as possible in Step 3 .

Enclose an acceptable form of payment according to the instructions in Step 4 .

Have one or more of the permissible uses described in Step 5 . Check all of the permissible uses that apply and sign the certification.

Include a photocopy of your driver license or government-issued identification card with this request form or have your

signature notarized in Step 5 .

Exemption from fees: Government Agencies; public officers, boards or bodies; volunteer fire companies and ambulance services; legal aid bureaus or societies or any private entity acting pursuant to NY County Law § 722 are exempt as long as the Agency identifies themselves, that the records being requested are for business use, and the records are mailed to the requesting Agency’s business address.

Exemption cannot be used to obtain your own personal records, or V&T Law Books.

MAIL YOUR completed MV-15 form, payment, and identification to:

 

 

NYS DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES, MV-15 PROCESSING, 6 EMPIRE STATE PLAZA, ALBANY NY 12228

DO NOT STAPLE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your return receipt

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STEP 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DMV OFFICE USE ONLY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

No record

ABS___ HIS___ TCK___ SUS___ INS___

 

 

$_____

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Abstract(s)

Life___

Stnd___

Reg___ Ttl___

Ins___

$_____

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

History ADD___

REG___

 

 

 

 

 

$_____

 

 

 

Print/Type name and mailing address where the

 

Ticket(s)/Disposition(s) _________________________

 

 

 

$_____

 

 

 

 

 records will be mailed 

 

Suspensions/Revocations

Lic___ Reg___

 

 

 

$_____

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL FEE

$

 

 

 

Address2

 

 

Initials ____________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City,

 

Date ____________

 

Amount Received

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

State,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Zip

 

FT # ____________

 

REFUND (IF ANY)

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MV-15 (1/21)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PAGE 1 OF 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STEP 2 REQUESTOR’S INFORMATION

LAST NAME

FIRST

 

M.I.

ADDRESS WHERE YOU GET YOUR MAIL (INCLUDE STREET & NO.)

 

APT #

CITY

 

STATE

ZIP CODE

SIGNATURE

 

 

EMAIL ADDRESS

X

DAYTIME PHONE NUMBER (REQUIRED):

o Check here if the mailing address you provided in Step 1 is different from the requestor’s address.

oCheck here to have your certified records sent electronically. Print or type your email address below. Records sent electronically WILL NOT be mailed.

STEP 3 CHECK THE BOX NEXT TO EACH TYPE OF RECORD THAT YOU WANT (SEARCH INFORMATION REQUIRED)

Provide as much search information as you know about the record(s) you are requesting.

LAST NAME

FIRST

 

M.I.

DATE OF BIRTH

SEX

 

N.Y. DRIVER OR NON-DRIVER ID #

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MAILING ADDRESS (INCLUDE STREET & NO.)

APT #

CITY

 

 

 

STATE

ZIP CODE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TICKET NUMBER of SUSPENSION ORDER NUMBER

 

DATE OF VIOLATION

OFFENSE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

# of copies

Fee

Total

LICENSE

o DRIVING ABSTRACT (displays records for the last 4 years) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

o DRIVING RECORD HISTORY* (referred to as LIFETIME ABSTRACT”) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

*DMV can only provide this type of abstract to the individual whose name is on the record. Examples of when this may be required include: background checks, bar exam, applicants for a license in U.S. or Canada, and an attorney reviewing client’s entire record.

*If your lawyer, court personnel or someone other than YOU is requesting your Lifetime abstract, they must include form MV-15GC. Go to dmv.ny.gov to get the form.

*Note - this history does not always include information that dates back to when a person was originally granted driving privileges. Some information is purged, as required by law.

x $10 each = $

x $10 each = $

0

0

REGISTRATION / OWNER

o ADDRESS HISTORY (only your own address history)

 

x

$10 each

=

$

0

 

 

 

 

 

 

o TICKET DISPOSITION* (includes photocopy of ticket or copy of electronic record)

 

x

$10 each

=

$

0

 

 

*DMV does not retain parking tickets - contact city, town or village

o DRIVER LICENSE REVOCATION/SUSPENSION ORDER

 

x $10 each = $

0

 

 

IF YOU WANT MORE THAN ONE TICKET, DISPOSITION, OR SUSPENSION ORDER, PLEASE ATTACH A LIST AND INCLUDE $10 FOR EACH ONE

Provide as much search information as you know about the record(s) you are requesting.

LAST NAME

FIRST

M.I.

DATE OF BIRTH

 

 

 

 

OR

 

PLATE

 

YEAR

MAKE

 

MODEL

VIN #

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

# of copies Fee

 

Total

o INSURANCE INFORMATION SEARCH/ACTIVITY REPORT

. .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

 

 

x $10 each

= $

0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o If crash/accident related, please include date of crash/accident

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o LIST OF AN INDIVIDUAL’S CURRENT AND PREVIOUS VEHICLE REGISTRATION (PLATES) (if available)

 

 

x $10 each

= $

0

 

 

 

 

 

o VEHICLE REGISTRATION (PLATE) ABSTRACT

. .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

 

 

x $10 each

= $

0

 

 

 

 

 

0

 

o VEHICLE REGISTRATION SUSPENSION ORDER

 

 

 

 

 

 

x $10 each

= $

 

. .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o VEHICLE TITLE (VIN) ABSTRACT (Owner - only includes active lien information)

. .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

 

 

x $10 each

= $

0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IF YOU WANT MORE THAN ONE PLATE, VIN ABSTRACT OR SUSPENSION ORDER, PLEASE ATTACH A LIST AND INCLUDE $10 FOR EACH ONE

Please calculate the total for each of the items you want and enter the total here

 

TO TA L D U E $ 0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STEP 4

PAYMENT METHOD - DO NOT SEND CASH

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

lMake checks payable to the “Commissioner of Motor Vehicles”

lPlease remember to SIGN YOUR CHECK

lNo starter checks

lUS Funds only

o Check

o Money Order o Exempt

o DMV Debit account number

MV-15 (1/21)

PAGE 2 OF 3

STEP 5 PERMISSIBLE USE(S) & CERTIFICATION

Driver Privacy Protection Act: The Federal Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) (18 U.S.C. §2721.et seq.) (“DPPA”) regulates access to Motor Vehicles records. Recipient hereby certifies that the information provided hereunder by DMV shall be used solely for the following purpose(s).

(Recipient must check all that apply.)

1.Use in any civil, criminal, administrative, or arbitral proceeding in any court or agency, including the service of process, investigation in anticipation of litigation, and the execution or enforcement of judgments and orders or pursuant to a court order. (18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(4))

2.Use by an insurer or insurance support organization or self-insured entity in claims investigations, anti-fraud activities, rating or underwriting activities. (18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(6))

3.Use in providing notice to the owners of towed or impounded vehicles. (18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(7))

4.Use by an employer, its agent or insurer to obtain information relating to the holder of a commercial driver's license required under Chapter 313 of Title 49 of the U.S.C. (18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(9))

5.For use in the normal course of business by a legitimate business or its agents, employees, or contractors, but only-

(A)to verify the accuracy of personal information submitted by the individual to the business or its agents, employees, or contractors; (18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(3)(A)) and

(B)if such information as so submitted is not correct or is no longer correct, to obtain the correct information, but only for the purposes of preventing fraud by, pursuing legal remedies against, or recovering on a debt or security interest against, the individual. (18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(3)(B))

6.Use required under NYS Vehicle and Traffic Law, Article 19A - Special Requirements for Bus Drivers. (18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(14))

7.Use required under NYS Vehicle and Traffic Law, Article 19B - Special Requirements for Commercial Motor Carriers.

(18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(14))

8.Use by any government agency, including any court or law enforcement agency, in carrying out its functions. (18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(1))

9.Use by any private person or entity acting on behalf of a federal, state, or local agency in carrying out its functions. (18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(1))

10.Use in matters of motor vehicle or driver safety. (18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(2))

11.Use in matters of motor vehicle theft. (18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(2))

12.Use in matters of motor vehicle emissions. (18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(2))

13.Use in matters of motor vehicle product alterations, recalls or advisories. (18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(2))

14.Use in performance monitoring of motor vehicles, motor vehicle parts and dealers. (18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(2))

15.Use in motor vehicle market research activities, including survey research. (18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(2))

16.Use in removal of non-owner records from the original owner records of motor vehicle manufacturers. (18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(2))

17.Use in the operation of private toll transportation facilities. (18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(10))

18.For use by any requester, if the requester demonstrates it has obtained the written consent of the individual to whom the information pertains. (May use form MV-15GC). (18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(13))

19.Use specifically authorized under NYS law, IF such use is related to the operation of a motor vehicle or public safety.

Cite the specific NYS law here:

 

(18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(14))

20.Use in research activities and in producing statistical reports, as long as the personal information is not published, disclosed or used to contact individuals. (18 U.S.C. §2721 (b)(5))

To knowingly make a false statement or conceal a material fact in this written statement may be punishable as a criminal offense. In addition, anyone who makes false representation to obtain any personal information from an individual’s Motor Vehicles record is subject to federal criminal fines under the Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA).

YOU MUST ATTACH A COPY OF YOUR ID.

I certify that I have read the Drivers Privacy Protection Act (18 U.S.C. Sec 2721 et seq.) and will comply fully with the terms of such law. I also agree to defend, hold harmless and indemnify DMV from all actions brought against DMV, or damages alleged against DMV, for my negligent, improper or unauthorized use or dissemination of the information provided by the DMV.

I certify that if I receive or have access to records or information from the DMV, I shall not (i) use such records or information for civil immigration purposes or (ii) disclose such records or information to any agency that primarily enforces immigration law, such as U.S. immigration and customs enforcement and U.S. customs and border protection, or to any employee or agent of any such agency unless such disclosure is pursuant to a cooperative arrangement between city, state and federal agencies which does not enforce immigration law and which disclosure is limited to the specific records or information being sought pursuant to such arrangement. I certify that, in addition to the requirements of 18 USC 2721(c), I shall keep for a period of five years records of all uses and identifying each person or entity that primarily enforces immigration law that received department records or information from such certifying person or entity. I shall maintain the records in a manner and form prescribed by the commissioner, and I shall make them available for inspection upon the commissioner’s request.

Signature X

Print Name

 

Date:

 

 

MV-15 (1/21)

PLEASE DO NOT STAPLE

 

PAGE 3 OF 3

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Detail
Purpose The New York Request form is designed for individuals to request their own or another person's DMV records.
Identification Requirement A photocopy of a driver's license or government-issued ID must accompany the request.
Permissible Uses Specific permissible uses must be checked and certified, including legal and business purposes.
Payment Instructions Acceptable forms of payment include checks or money orders made out to the "Commissioner of Motor Vehicles."
Fee Structure Typically, a fee of $10 per record is charged, with exemptions available for certain government agencies.
Request Submission Completed requests must be mailed to the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles at a specified Albany address.
Signature Requirement A signature is required either on the application itself or by notarization for verifying identity.
Privacy Protection The form complies with the Federal Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (18 U.S.C. §2721 et seq.).
Limitations on Usage Strong limitations are placed on the use of the information to prevent misuse or unauthorized access.
Exemption for Agencies Certain government entities are exempt from fees but must identify themselves and state their business purpose.

Guidelines on Utilizing New York Request

Completing the New York Request form is a straightforward process, but it requires attention to detail. Once filled out, you'll be ready to submit your request to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to obtain the records you need.

  1. Step 1: Provide the mailing address where you want the records sent. Ensure all information is accurate.
  2. Step 2: Fill in your personal information. Include your last name, first name, mailing address, and contact details. You also need to sign the form.
  3. Step 3: Check the boxes for the types of records you want. Provide any relevant search information, such as the person’s name and date of birth, to assist in locating the records.
  4. Step 4: Include an acceptable form of payment. Make checks payable to “Commissioner of Motor Vehicles.”
  5. Step 5: Fill out the permissible uses section. Check all applicable boxes and ensure you sign the certification. Attach a photocopy of your identification or notarize your signature.

After completing these steps, make sure you double-check your form for any errors. Once confirmed, mail your completed request along with payment and identification to the DMV. Remember, do not staple any documents.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the purpose of the New York Request Form for DMV records?

The New York Request Form is designed for individuals to request their own driving records or the driving records of another person. It ensures compliance with the Driver Privacy Protection Act, which governs access to personal vehicle information. This form facilitates the collection of necessary details, such as names, addresses, types of records being requested, and proper identification, to process the request efficiently and legally.

What information is required to order my own DMV record?

To order your own DMV record, you must follow a specific set of instructions. Begin by providing your name, mailing address, and signature in the appropriate sections of the form. You will also need to check the box next to each type of record you seek and include as much search information as possible, like your date of birth and driver ID number. Additionally, you'll have to enclose a payment and provide a photocopy of your driver’s license or other government-issued ID. If you do not submit a photocopy, your signature must be notarized.

Can I request DMV records for someone else, and what do I need to do?

Yes, you can request DMV records for another person, but certain conditions apply. You need to provide your own name and address, as well as the recipient’s name and address where the records should be sent. Just like with your own request, you must check the record types you wish to obtain and provide detailed search information. Importantly, you must identify an allowable purpose for your request and sign the certification, as mandated by legal regulations. Verification of permissible use is crucial in this process.

Are there any exemptions for fees when requesting DMV records?

Certain entities are exempt from fees when requesting DMV records. Government agencies, public officers, and specific organizations such as volunteer fire companies or legal aid societies qualify for this exemption. To utilize this fee waiver, the requesting agency must identify themselves, specify that the records are for business use, and ensure the records are sent to their business address. However, this exemption cannot be used for personal record requests or for acquiring Vehicle and Traffic Law books.

How do I submit my request once the form is completed?

Once you have filled out the form and gathered the necessary documents and payment, you should mail everything to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles at the specified address. Ensure you use the correct mailing address, which is 6 Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12228. Importantly, do not staple any documents together, as this may hinder processing. It is also wise to keep a copy of the completed form for your records.

What should I do if I need multiple types of records or copies?

If you wish to request multiple records or copies of particular documents, ensure that you clearly list each item on your request form and include the appropriate fee for each. For instance, if you are requesting multiple ticket dispositions or vehicle abstracts, note each one and calculate total costs accordingly. The DMV charges a fee for each record or document requested, so accurate calculations are necessary for processing your request without delays.

Common mistakes

Completing the New York Request form for DMV records can be straightforward, but many people make common mistakes that can delay their requests. One frequent error is omitting the recipient's mailing address in Step 1. This address is crucial for the processing and delivery of the records, and without it, requests may not be fulfilled or could be sent to the wrong location.

Another common mistake occurs in Step 2 when individuals fail to provide their complete name and signature. Leaving out the signature could result in the rejection of the request, as it serves as a confirmation of the authenticity of the form. Additionally, people sometimes forget to include their daytime phone number. This oversight can hinder communication if any issues arise during processing.

In Step 3, many requestors do not check all applicable boxes next to the types of records they want. By neglecting to provide as much search information as possible, they may limit the DMV's ability to find the requested records. Accurate and thorough details enhance the chances of a successful search.

Problems can also occur with the payment section. Some individuals mistakenly send cash instead of a check or money order. This is strictly prohibited. Moreover, individuals often forget to sign their checks. A missing signature can complicate payment processing and delay the request further.

Another mistake is failing to include a photocopy of identification in Step 5. Whether sending a driver’s license or a government-issued identification card, this copy is necessary to verify identity and legitimacy. Skipping this step can halt the request process entirely.

Many requestors overlook the importance of the permissible uses section. In Step 5, they may either fail to check any boxes or select options that do not align with their request. Each choice indicates the intended reason for obtaining the records, and inaccuracies can lead to complications or denials.

Further, errors in calculating the total fee can create problems. A frequent error is providing the wrong amount due, leading to requests being returned for insufficient payment. Always double-check the totals before submission.

People also sometimes submit their forms without ensuring they follow the most current instruction guidelines. The DMV regularly updates its forms and procedures, so using outdated versions can lead to rejection. It’s essential to verify that all information aligns with the instructions at the time of submission.

Lastly, failure to follow mailing instructions can cause problems. Individuals often staple their forms, but the DMV explicitly requests that no staples be used. This simple oversight can result in the form being unreadable when it reaches the processing department.

By being mindful of these common mistakes, individuals can streamline the process of requesting their DMV records and avoid unnecessary delays. Careful completion and attention to detail will help ensure a smoother experience.

Documents used along the form

The New York Request form is a vital document when seeking certified DMV records. It provides essential information necessary for the proper processing of requests. There are several other forms and documents that may accompany the New York Request form. Each serves a specific purpose, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and streamlining the records request process.

  • MV-15GC Form: This form is required when someone other than the individual named on the record is requesting a Lifetime Abstract. It must be completed and submitted alongside the New York Request form.
  • Identification Documentation: A photocopy of the requester’s driver’s license or a government-issued ID is required. This helps verify the identity of the requestor and ensures that the records are being released to the correct person.
  • Payment Method Documentation: This includes checks or money orders that must accompany the request. Acceptable payment methods are essential for processing the request efficiently.
  • Permissible Use Certification: This part of the form outlines the legal reasons for requesting the records. It must be filled out and signed to ensure compliance with the law regarding privacy and access to driving records.
  • Exemption Documentation: For certain government agencies or organizations that may be exempt from fees, proper identification and proof of exemption must be included to validate the request.
  • Cover Letter: While optional, a cover letter can accompany the request to clarify the purpose of the records request and provide contact information for any follow-up questions.

Understanding these additional forms and documents can significantly aid in ensuring that a request for DMV records is processed smoothly. It is important to provide accurate information and necessary documentation to avoid delays in receiving the requested records.

Similar forms

  • Vehicle Title Application: Similar to the New York Request form, the Vehicle Title Application requires individuals to provide personal information, including the vehicle owner’s details and identification. Both forms ensure compliance with specific legal requirements related to vehicle records.
  • Driver’s License Application: Like the New York Request form, this document necessitates personal data submission, including identity verification through identification. Both processes involve checks against existing DMV records to authenticate the applicant's information.
  • Request for Accident Report: This document closely resembles the New York Request form as it also entails providing detailed personal information and specifying the records sought. It includes steps to ensure that the requester has a legitimate need for accessing sensitive information.
  • Vehicle Registration Renewal: The renewal form and the New York Request form share the need for the applicant’s information along with payment details. Both documents require that the requester affirm the purpose for accessing the information provided.
  • Authorization for Release of Information: Similar to the New York Request form, this document involves a declaration of consent for obtaining specific records. Both forms demand signatures and often the presentation of identification to verify the requester's identity.

Dos and Don'ts

Things to Do:

  • Provide accurate personal information, including your name and address, in the required sections.
  • Check all relevant boxes in Step 3 to specify the types of records you want.
  • Enclose a form of payment, ensuring it complies with the guidelines set forth.
  • Include a photocopy of your government-issued ID or notarize your signature.
  • Mail your completed form, payment, and identification to the correct DMV address.

Things Not to Do:

  • Do not provide incomplete or incorrect information in any part of the form.
  • Avoid sending cash as payment; use checks or money orders only.
  • Do not staple the pages of the request form together.
  • Do not forget to sign the form and the payment method.
  • Do not ignore the permissible uses; ensure you check all that apply in Step 5.

Misconceptions

Misunderstandings about the New York Request Form for DMV records can lead to unnecessary delays or rejections. Here are nine common misconceptions that individuals might have regarding this form:

  1. Anyone Can Order a DMV Record Without Restrictions - Contrary to popular belief, accessing another person’s DMV record is highly regulated. You must demonstrate a permissible use for obtaining such records.
  2. The Form Does Not Require Identification - Some think they can request records without providing proper identification. However, you must include a photocopy of your driver license or government-issued ID to process the request.
  3. I Can Staple My Submission - There’s a misconception that stapling documents together is acceptable. In fact, you should not staple your MV-15 form; doing so could lead to processing delays.
  4. Payment Is Optional for Government Agencies - While government agencies may be exempt from fees, this does not apply to personal requests for records. Individuals must still submit their payment.
  5. My Personal Records Are Free to Access - Many believe accessing their own DMV records will always be free. There is often a fee associated with obtaining copies of certain types of records.
  6. The DMV Will Automatically Email My Records - Some people assume that if they provide an email address, their documents will be sent electronically. However, you must check the appropriate box to indicate your preference for electronic delivery.
  7. All Types of Records Can Be Requested with One Submission - There’s a common assumption that a single request can cover multiple records. If you want more than one type of record, you need to specify each one and provide payment for each separately.
  8. I Can Use My Records for Any Purpose - Some believe that as long as they receive their records, they can use them freely. The Driver Privacy Protection Act restricts the use of these records for specific purposes only.
  9. My Lawyer Can Access My DMV Records Without Additional Steps - Clients often think their legal representatives can easily pull their records. If an attorney or someone other than the individual is requesting a Lifetime abstract, they must submit an additional form (MV-15GC).

Understanding these common misconceptions can simplify the process of obtaining DMV records in New York. Knowledge is key to ensuring your requests are processed smoothly and efficiently.

Key takeaways

Key Takeaways for Using the New York DMV Request Form

  • When ordering your own DMV record, include your name, address, and signature. If you are ordering for someone else, ensure you have a permissible use checked and the necessary signature.
  • Provide as much search information as possible in Step 3. This includes the individual’s name, date of birth, and any relevant license or ticket numbers.
  • Be mindful of payment methods. Acceptable payments include checks and money orders, but never send cash. Ensure to sign your payment and use US funds only.
  • Attach a copy of your government-issued ID. This is critical for both personal requests and third-party requests.
  • Consider the legal implications. Misusing the information obtained from the DMV can lead to criminal penalties under the Driver's Privacy Protection Act. Understanding permissible use is essential for compliance.