In [ ]:
    
from __future__ import print_function
import statsmodels.api as sm
import numpy as np
import pandas as pd
    
In [ ]:
    
data = sm.datasets.sunspots.load()
    
Right now an annual date series must be datetimes at the end of the year.
In [ ]:
    
from datetime import datetime
dates = sm.tsa.datetools.dates_from_range('1700', length=len(data.endog))
    
In [ ]:
    
endog = pd.Series(data.endog, index=dates)
    
Instantiate the model
In [ ]:
    
ar_model = sm.tsa.AR(endog, freq='A')
pandas_ar_res = ar_model.fit(maxlag=9, method='mle', disp=-1)
    
Out-of-sample prediction
In [ ]:
    
pred = pandas_ar_res.predict(start='2005', end='2015')
print(pred)
    
In [ ]:
    
ar_model = sm.tsa.AR(data.endog, dates=dates, freq='A')
ar_res = ar_model.fit(maxlag=9, method='mle', disp=-1)
pred = ar_res.predict(start='2005', end='2015')
print(pred)
    
This just returns a regular array, but since the model has date information attached, you can get the prediction dates in a roundabout way.
In [ ]:
    
print(ar_res.data.predict_dates)
    
Note: This attribute only exists if predict has been called. It holds the dates associated with the last call to predict.