MV-197

The NY DMV MV-197 form, also known as the Exempt Vehicle Certificate, is a legal document used to certify that certain buses and ambulances are exempt from "for-hire" insurance requirements and, in the case of some non-profit ambulances, registration fees. Specifically, it applies to buses with a seating capacity of 15 or more passengers and ambulances where no direct or indirect charges are made for transportation services. To qualify for the exemption, the registrant or an authorized officer of a corporation must sign the form under penalty of perjury, affirming that the vehicle is not operated for hire. For ambulances, additional documentation such as an MV-3A form or a DOH-3414 certificate may be required to prove eligibility for fee exemptions. Once completed, the MV-197 must be presented to the DMV during the vehicle registration process.