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The New York MV51 form serves as a crucial document for the sale or transfer of vehicles that are either 1972 models or older, or any non-titled vehicles. This form is specifically designed for transactions conducted by private individuals, as dealers are prohibited from using it. To ensure a smooth transfer of ownership, the MV51 must be accompanied by bills of sale that demonstrate a clear chain of ownership from all previous owners. It is important to note that any alterations or changes to supporting documents will render them unacceptable. The form requires detailed information about both the seller and the purchaser, including names, addresses, and vehicle specifics such as the make, model, and identification number. Additionally, the form includes sections for both parties to certify their respective roles in the transaction, reinforcing the legal commitment involved in the sale. Buyers are also advised to check for any liens against the vehicle prior to completing the purchase, a step that can be facilitated by contacting the County Clerk’s Office. Overall, the MV51 form plays a vital role in ensuring that vehicle sales in New York are conducted legally and transparently.

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NewYorkStateDepartmentofMotorVehicles

CERTIFICATION OF SALE OR TRANSFER FOR 1972 OR

OLDER VEHICLES ORANY OTHER NON-TITLED VEHICLES

www.dmv.ny.gov

INSTRUCTIONS:

1.Printininkortypeallentries.

2.Thiscertificationistobeusedifthevehicleissoldbyapersonotherthanadealer.Adealercannotusethisformtosellavehicle.

3.Thiscertificationmustbeaccompaniedbybillsofsaleshowingcontinuityofownershipfromallpreviousowners.

Note:Thisformmustbeaccompaniedbysupportingdocumentswhichwillnotbeacceptedifthereareanychanges oralterationsonthem.

Name of Seller (Last, First, M.I.)

MailingAddress (Number and Street)

 

 

 

 

 

Apt. #

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City or Post Office

 

 

 

County

State

Zip Code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year of Last

State of Last

 

Plate No.

 

 

 

Registration

Registration

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name of Last Registrant or Previous Owner(Last, First, M.I.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address of Last Registrant (Number, Street, Apt. #,

City, State, and Zip Code)

 

 

 

PURCHASER: Before purchase, be sure you find out if there are any liens on it. One way to do this is to contact your County Clerk’s Office

Name of Purchaser (Last, First, M.I.)

MailingAddress (Number, Street,Apt. #)

City or Post Office

County

State

Zip Code

Date of Purchase

 

 

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION

Year

Make

Vehicle Identification Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

oGas

oPropane

oElectric

oFlex

oDiesel

oCNG

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Body Type

 

Color

 

 

Maximum Performance

 

 

 

 

 

 

Speed of Motorcycle

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unladen Weight

 

Cylinders

 

 

 

 

Lbs.

 

 

 

 

 

VEHICLE INSPECTION

Date of Last

Inspection

Inspection Sticker

Number

Station

Number

CERTIFICATION OF SELLER

I certify that I am the owner of the vehicle described on this form, and that I have sold this vehicle to the purchaser named on the form.

_______________________________________________________________________

____________________

(Sign Name in Full – If Not Individual Seller, Give Title)

(Date)

CERTIFICATION OF PURCHASER

I certify that I have purchased the vehicle described on this form from the seller named on the form.

_______________________________________________________________________

____________________

(Sign Name in Full – If Not Individual Purchaser, Give Title)

(Date)

MV-51 (11/11) FALSE STATEMENTSARE PUNISHABLE UNDER SECTION 210.45 OF THE NYS PENAL LAW.

➤ PDF File

Form Specifications

Fact Name Details
Purpose The MV-51 form certifies the sale or transfer of vehicles that are 1972 or older, or any non-titled vehicles.
Who Uses It This form is used by private sellers, not dealers. Dealers must use a different form.
Supporting Documents It must be accompanied by a bill of sale that shows the continuity of ownership from all previous owners.
Alterations Any changes or alterations on the supporting documents will lead to rejection of the form.
Liens Purchasers should check for any liens on the vehicle by contacting the County Clerk’s Office before buying.
Signatures Both the seller and purchaser must sign the form to certify the transaction.
Governing Law This form is governed by Section 210.45 of the New York State Penal Law, which addresses false statements.

New York Mv51: Usage Guidelines

Completing the New York MV-51 form is a straightforward process that requires attention to detail. This form is essential for documenting the sale or transfer of a vehicle that is 1972 or older, or any non-titled vehicle. After filling out the form, ensure you have all necessary supporting documents ready to accompany it for submission.

  1. Print clearly in ink or type all entries on the form.
  2. Fill in the Name of Seller section with the seller's last name, first name, and middle initial.
  3. Provide the seller's Mailing Address, including the street address, apartment number (if applicable), city, county, state, and zip code.
  4. Enter the Year and Plate No. of the last registration.
  5. Complete the Name of Last Registrant or Previous Owner section with their last name, first name, and middle initial.
  6. Fill in the Address of Last Registrant with their complete address details.
  7. In the PURCHASER section, provide the Name of Purchaser with the last name, first name, and middle initial.
  8. Complete the Mailing Address for the purchaser, including street address, apartment number (if applicable), city, county, state, and zip code.
  9. Indicate the Date of Purchase.
  10. Describe the vehicle by filling out the Year, Make, and Vehicle Identification Number.
  11. Select the fuel type by marking one of the options: Gas, Propane, Electric, Flex, Diesel, or CNG.
  12. Provide the Body Type and Color of the vehicle.
  13. If applicable, enter the Maximum Performance Speed of Motorcycle and Unladen Weight.
  14. Fill in the number of Cylinders and the weight in pounds.
  15. Enter the Date of Last Inspection and the Inspection Sticker Number.
  16. Provide the Station Number where the vehicle was inspected.
  17. In the CERTIFICATION OF SELLER section, the seller must sign their name and date the form.
  18. In the CERTIFICATION OF PURCHASER section, the purchaser must also sign their name and date the form.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the New York MV51 form?

The New York MV51 form is a certification used for the sale or transfer of vehicles that are 1972 or older, as well as non-titled vehicles. This form is necessary when a vehicle is sold by a private individual rather than a dealer. It serves to document the sale and ensure that the transfer of ownership is properly recorded with the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Who can use the MV51 form?

This form can be used by private sellers who are transferring ownership of their vehicle. However, it is important to note that dealers cannot use the MV51 form for vehicle sales. The seller must provide a bill of sale that shows the continuity of ownership from all previous owners to validate the transaction.

What supporting documents are required with the MV51 form?

When submitting the MV51 form, it must be accompanied by supporting documents, particularly a bill of sale. This bill of sale should clearly show the chain of ownership, detailing all previous owners. It is crucial that these documents are free from any changes or alterations, as the DMV will not accept them if they do not meet these criteria.

What should purchasers be aware of before buying a vehicle using the MV51 form?

Before completing a purchase, buyers should ensure that there are no liens on the vehicle. A lien indicates that a third party has a legal claim to the vehicle until a debt is satisfied. To verify the status of the vehicle, potential purchasers can contact their County Clerk’s Office for information regarding any existing liens.

What are the consequences of providing false information on the MV51 form?

Providing false statements on the MV51 form can lead to serious legal consequences. Under Section 210.45 of the New York State Penal Law, making false statements is punishable by law. Both the seller and purchaser must certify the accuracy of the information provided on the form, and any discrepancies could result in penalties.

Common mistakes

  1. Not using ink or typed entries: The form must be filled out in ink or typed. Using pencil or other non-permanent writing methods can lead to rejection.

  2. Failing to include continuity of ownership documentation: Bills of sale from all previous owners must accompany the form. Omitting these documents can delay the process.

  3. Making alterations or changes on the form: Any changes or corrections made to the form can result in it being rejected. Always double-check for accuracy before submission.

  4. Not verifying liens on the vehicle: Purchasers should check for any existing liens. This can be done by contacting the County Clerk’s Office before completing the purchase.

  5. Leaving out required signatures: Both the seller and purchaser must sign the form. Missing signatures will invalidate the certification.

  6. Incorrectly filling out vehicle details: Ensure that all vehicle information, such as the VIN, year, make, and color, is accurate. Mistakes can lead to complications in registration.

Documents used along the form

The New York MV-51 form is essential for certifying the sale or transfer of vehicles that are 1972 or older, or any non-titled vehicles. Along with this form, several other documents may be required to ensure a smooth transaction. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that complement the MV-51.

  • Bill of Sale: This document serves as proof of the transaction between the seller and the buyer. It includes details such as the vehicle's description, purchase price, and the parties involved.
  • Title Certificate: While the MV-51 is used for older or non-titled vehicles, a title certificate is necessary for vehicles that have one. It proves ownership and is needed for the transfer process.
  • Odometer Disclosure Statement: This form is required to disclose the vehicle's mileage at the time of sale. It helps prevent fraud related to odometer tampering.
  • Vehicle History Report: This report provides information about the vehicle's past, including accidents, ownership changes, and any reported issues. Buyers often request this to make informed decisions.
  • Lien Release: If the vehicle had a loan, a lien release document is necessary to confirm that the loan has been paid off and that the seller has the right to sell the vehicle.
  • Insurance Information: Proof of insurance may be required to complete the registration process after the purchase. This document shows that the buyer has coverage for the vehicle.
  • Identification Documents: Both the seller and buyer may need to provide valid identification, such as a driver’s license or state ID, to verify their identities during the transaction.
  • Affidavit of Heirship: In cases where the vehicle is inherited, this affidavit may be necessary to establish the rightful owner among heirs.
  • Form MV-82: This is the application for a title or registration. It is often needed after the sale to officially register the vehicle in the new owner's name.

Having these documents ready can help facilitate a smooth transaction and ensure compliance with New York State regulations. Always check with the local Department of Motor Vehicles for any additional requirements that may apply.

Similar forms

The New York MV-51 form is a crucial document used for the certification of sale or transfer of vehicles that are either 1972 models or older, or any non-titled vehicles. Several other documents serve similar purposes in vehicle transactions. Below is a list of these documents, along with a brief explanation of how each one is comparable to the MV-51 form.

  • Bill of Sale: This document serves as proof of the transaction between the seller and buyer. Like the MV-51, it must detail the vehicle's description and the parties involved in the sale.
  • Title Certificate: A title certificate indicates ownership of a vehicle. While the MV-51 is used for vehicles that may not have a title, both documents confirm the transfer of ownership.
  • Vehicle Registration Application: This application is used to register a vehicle with the state. Similar to the MV-51, it requires information about the vehicle and its owners to establish legal ownership.
  • Transfer of Title Document: This document is used when transferring a vehicle's title from one owner to another. Like the MV-51, it facilitates the change of ownership and often requires signatures from both parties.
  • Odometer Disclosure Statement: This statement is necessary for certain vehicle sales to disclose the mileage. Both the MV-51 and this document are important for ensuring transparency in the sale process.
  • Affidavit of Ownership: This document is used when the seller cannot provide a title. Similar to the MV-51, it serves to assert ownership and facilitate the sale of a vehicle.
  • Application for Duplicate Title: When a title is lost, this application allows the owner to obtain a replacement. While it does not directly transfer ownership like the MV-51, it is part of the documentation needed for a legal sale.

Understanding these documents can help ensure a smooth transaction when buying or selling a vehicle. Each document plays a vital role in establishing ownership and protecting the rights of both the seller and the buyer.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the New York MV-51 form, it is essential to adhere to specific guidelines to ensure the process goes smoothly. Below are ten things you should and shouldn’t do.

  • Do print in ink or type all entries clearly.
  • Do ensure the form is used only if the vehicle is sold by a private seller, not a dealer.
  • Do include a bill of sale that shows continuity of ownership from all previous owners.
  • Do check for any liens on the vehicle before completing the purchase.
  • Do sign the certification sections for both the seller and the purchaser.
  • Don’t make any changes or alterations to the supporting documents.
  • Don’t forget to include the vehicle's complete description, including the VIN.
  • Don’t submit the form without verifying that all information is accurate.
  • Don’t overlook the date of purchase; it must be included.
  • Don’t ignore the penalties for false statements, which are serious under New York law.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the New York MV51 form can lead to confusion and potential legal issues. Here are seven common misconceptions clarified:

  • Only Dealers Can Use the MV51 Form: This is incorrect. The MV51 form is specifically for private sales, not for dealers.
  • The MV51 Form Replaces a Title: The form does not replace a title. It is a certification of sale for vehicles that do not have a title, such as those from 1972 or older.
  • Bill of Sale Is Optional: A bill of sale is required. It must show continuity of ownership from all previous owners.
  • Alterations Are Acceptable: Any changes or alterations to the supporting documents will result in rejection of the form. Always use original documents.
  • Liens Are Not a Concern: Buyers should always check for liens. Contacting the County Clerk’s Office is advisable before making a purchase.
  • Signatures Are Not Necessary: Both the seller and purchaser must sign the form. Their signatures confirm the transaction.
  • The MV51 Form Is Only for Cars: This form can be used for various types of vehicles, including motorcycles and non-titled vehicles.

Understanding these points can help ensure a smooth transaction when buying or selling a vehicle in New York.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the New York MV-51 form, it is essential to adhere to specific guidelines to ensure a smooth transaction. Below are key takeaways regarding this form:

  • Eligibility: The MV-51 form is intended for vehicles that are 1972 or older, or any non-titled vehicles. It cannot be used by dealers.
  • Completeness: All entries on the form must be printed in ink or typed. Incomplete forms may lead to delays or rejection.
  • Supporting Documents: This certification must be accompanied by a bill of sale that shows the continuity of ownership from all previous owners. Without these documents, the form may not be accepted.
  • Liens Check: Before purchasing, the buyer should verify if there are any liens on the vehicle. This can be done by contacting the County Clerk’s Office.
  • Signatures Required: Both the seller and purchaser must sign the form, certifying their respective roles in the transaction. Signatures must be in full, and titles should be provided if applicable.