PennDOT Form MV-73A: PA Messenger Service Application – If you operate or plan to operate a motor vehicle messenger service in Pennsylvania, Form MV-73A is the essential document you need. Issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Bureau of Motor Vehicles, this official application allows businesses to request initial authorization, renew existing certificates, report changes of address, request duplicate certificates, or replace photo identification cards.
This comprehensive guide, tailored for USA-based operators and entrepreneurs, covers everything you need to know about Form MV-73A, including purpose, eligibility, required supporting documents, current fees, bond requirements, and how to submit the form correctly. Always verify the latest details on the official PennDOT Driver and Vehicle Services website.
What Is PennDOT Form MV-73A?
Form MV-73A (revised March 2025) is the official Pennsylvania application titled “Application for Initial Request/Renewal/Change and/or Replacement of Certificate of Authorization as Motor Vehicle Messenger Service.” It is used exclusively for messenger services that deliver and obtain motor vehicle and driver licensing documents to and from PennDOT on behalf of customers for a fee.
Under Pennsylvania law (Act 152 of 2002 and 75 Pa.C.S. Chapter 75), all messenger services must enter into a contract with PennDOT and maintain a valid Certificate of Authorization. The certificate is issued on a fiscal-year basis and expires on June 30 of each calendar year.
You can download the current official Form MV-73A directly from PennDOT here: Download PennDOT Form MV-73A (PDF).
Who Needs to File Form MV-73A?
Any individual, partnership, or corporation seeking to operate a motor vehicle messenger service in Pennsylvania must use this form. Common scenarios include:
- Applying for an initial Certificate of Authorization for a new main office or additional branch location
- Annual renewal of an existing certificate
- Requesting a duplicate certificate because the original was lost, stolen, defaced, or never received
- Reporting a change of business address or location transfer
- Replacing a photo identification card for an authorized employee
Note: To add, delete, or change employee information, you must also complete Form MV-73B (Messenger and/or Agent Service Employee Report for PennDOT). Ownership changes require a different form (MV-73O).
Sections of Form MV-73A Explained
The form is divided into clear sections. Check the appropriate box(es) at the top and complete only the required sections:
- Section A – Current registered name and address of the messenger service (including messenger number and all branch locations)
- Section B – Renewal application and Certification of Bond (completed by the surety company)
- Section C – Application for duplicate Certificate of Authorization
- Section D – Application for replacement due to change of business address (requires interior/exterior photos and a bond rider)
- Section E – Application for replacement of photo identification card
- Section F – Certification (signed under penalty of law by the owner or authorized officer)
Always type or print legibly. Incomplete or incorrect applications may be rejected.
Requirements for Initial Authorization
New applicants must meet strict requirements outlined in 67 Pa. Code Chapter 255 and detailed in PennDOT Publication 462 (Messenger Service Requirements to Open a Main Office). Key items typically include:
- Completed Form MV-73A
- Photographs of the interior and exterior of the proposed place of business (including branch offices)
- A letter of reference from a bank
- Three letters of reference from reputable business concerns
- Fingerprints of the applicant or principals of a partnership or corporation
- Listing of any outstanding liabilities owed to the Commonwealth
- Names and Social Security numbers of owners, officers, and employees
- A security plan for safeguarding documents and supplies
- The prescribed surety bond (see below)
- Applicable fees
- Criminal record checks (Form SP 4-164 results from the Pennsylvania State Police)
PennDOT may investigate the applicant’s business premises, personal history, and records before issuing authorization.
Surety Bond Requirements
Messenger services must file and maintain a surety bond in the amount of $50,000 for each approved location (main office and each branch). The bond must be issued by a surety company authorized to transact business in Pennsylvania and is for the protection of the Commonwealth and the public against monetary losses caused by intentional or negligent conduct.
Use Form MV-375 (Manufacturer/Dealer/Full Agent/Card Agent/Messenger Service/Salvor Bond) or an equivalent surety form. A new bond or bond renewal certification is required with annual renewals. If the bond is terminated or reduced, the Certificate of Authorization may be suspended until a satisfactory substitute is provided.
Current Fees for Form MV-73A Transactions
Fees are subject to periodic adjustment based on the Consumer Price Index. As of the most recent updates (effective 2025), typical messenger service fees include:
- Annual Registration Fee: $261 (main office or branch)
- Additional Place of Business: $130
- Location Transfer: $27
Always consult the latest Form MV-70S (Bureau of Motor Vehicles Schedule of Fees) available on the official PennDOT website, as fees can change. Payment is required with the application; fees are generally non-refundable except in limited denial cases for new applications.
How to Complete and Submit Form MV-73A?
Follow these steps for a successful submission:
- Download the current Form MV-73A from the official link provided above.
- Check the appropriate box(es) for the type of request.
- Complete the required sections accurately.
- Attach all supporting documents (photos, bond, rider, lease/deed if changing address, etc.).
- Have the surety complete the bond certification when required.
- Sign and date Section F under penalty of law. Misstatements or failure to notify PennDOT of changes can result in suspension of the contract.
- Submit the completed package with the correct fee to:
Bureau of Motor Vehicles
1101 South Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17104
Some related employee or contract documents may be emailed to the address listed on the form or supporting publications. For messenger badges needed to access the Riverfront Office Center Messenger Unit, contact Regulated Client Services at [email protected].
Important Related Forms and Publications
- Form MV-73B – Messenger and/or Agent Service Employee Report
- Pub 462 – New Messenger Service Requirements to Open a Main Office
- Pub 612 – Messenger Manual
- Form MV-375 – Bond form
- Form MV-70S – Current Schedule of Fees
Regulations governing messenger services appear in Title 67 of the Pennsylvania Code, Chapter 255.
Tips for Successful Processing and Compliance
- Submit applications well before the June 30 expiration date for renewals.
- Keep a copy of everything you submit.
- Ensure all photos clearly show the business entrance, signage, desk area, and secure storage.
- Maintain continuous bonding coverage.
- Promptly report any changes in employees, ownership, or location.
- Attend required training if also operating as an agent service.
Operating without a valid Certificate of Authorization is illegal and can result in enforcement action.