PennDOT Form MV-349: PA Dealer Registration Plates Guide – If you operate a new vehicle, used vehicle, motorcycle, trailer, or manufacturer dealership in Pennsylvania and hold a valid lot license from the Pennsylvania Department of State, you must use PennDOT Form MV-349 to apply for vehicle dealer registration plates. These special plates allow licensed dealers to legally operate inventory vehicles on public roads for business purposes such as test drives, deliveries, and demonstrations.
This comprehensive guide for U.S. vehicle dealers covers everything you need to know about Form MV-349 (edition 11-25), including eligibility, required documents, current fees, step-by-step instructions, and where to submit your application. All information is based on official Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and Department of State resources.
What Is PennDOT Form MV-349?
Form MV-349 is the official application used by dealers who are already licensed by the Pennsylvania State Board of Vehicle Manufacturers, Dealers and Salespersons (under the Department of State) to obtain dealer registration plates and a Dealer Identification Number (DIN) from PennDOT.
Dealer registration plates are distinct from regular passenger or commercial plates. They are issued in classifications such as:
- New Vehicle Dealer Plates (MS)
- Used Vehicle Dealer Plates (MT)
- Motorcycle Dealer Plates (MZ)
- New Trailer Dealer Plates (MY)
- Special Purpose Dealer Plates (MX)
- Manufacturer Plates (MS)
Plates can be issued for one-year or two-year periods, and all plates on a single application must share the same expiration date. Personalized dealer plates are also available by attaching Form MV-904D.
Official Download Link: Download PennDOT Form MV-349 (PDF)
Who Must Use Form MV-349?
You must use Form MV-349 if you are a:
- New vehicle dealer
- Used vehicle dealer
- Motorcycle dealer
- New trailer dealer
- Manufacturer
- Mobile home dealer (with specific limitations)
Important: You must first obtain your vehicle dealer lot license from the Pennsylvania Department of State’s State Board of Vehicle Manufacturers, Dealers and Salespersons before applying for plates with PennDOT. Dealers not required to be licensed by the Department of State use Form MV-369 instead.
For official licensing information, visit the Pennsylvania Department of State Vehicle Board page.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Dealer Registration Plates
Follow these steps carefully to avoid delays or rejection of your application:
- Obtain your Department of State dealer lot license through the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS).
- Prepare required supporting documents (detailed below).
- Complete Form MV-349 in full (typed preferred). All information must match your business records exactly.
- Calculate and prepare fees using the current Form MV-70S schedule.
- Mail the complete package to PennDOT.
PennDOT recommends reviewing Publication 459, “Requirements on Becoming a Dealer,” before submitting.
Official resource: Download Pub 459 – Requirements on Becoming a Dealer (PDF)
Required Documents to Accompany Form MV-349
According to the official instructions on Form MV-349, you must submit the following with your completed application:
- Original (not a copy) criminal history record (Form SP 4-164) from the Pennsylvania State Police for each owner, partner, or corporate officer. Out-of-state residents must also provide a criminal background check from their state of residence.
- PennDOT Form MV-375 (Manufacturer/Dealer/Full Agent/Messenger Service/Salvor Bond) – original form required (does not apply to certain mobile home dealer requests for DIN only).
- Photographs of the interior and exterior of the business clearly showing the office work area and business identification signs.
- Proof of insurance: A certificate of insurance or a letter from an authorized insurance carrier on company letterhead confirming sufficient liability coverage for the number of plates requested.
- Check or money order payable to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for all applicable fees (do not send cash).
- Motor Vehicle Transaction Recovery Fund fee (when applicable).
- Any additional documentation for change of address, change of ownership, or branch locations.
If you plan to issue temporary registration plates, you must also meet the agent services requirements outlined in Pub 459.
Current Dealer Registration Plate Fees (2026)
Fees are listed on the official Bureau of Motor Vehicles Schedule of Fees (Form MV-70S, revision 4-26). Always verify the latest fees on the PennDOT website before submitting.
| Plate Type | One-Year Fee | Two-Year Fee |
|---|---|---|
| New/Used Vehicle Dealer, Manufacturer, Trailer Dealer, Special Purpose | $70.00 per plate | $140.00 per plate |
| Motorcycle Dealer | $35.00 per plate | $70.00 per plate |
| Registration Card (duplicate) | $2.00 each | $2.00 each |
| Personalized Dealer Plate (additional) | $136.00 (attach Form MV-904D) | |
Source: Official PennDOT Form MV-70S – Bureau of Motor Vehicles Schedule of Fees
Payment must be made by check or money order payable to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
How to Complete Form MV-349 Correctly?
Key instructions from the form:
- Type all information completely and accurately.
- List the business name exactly as the registration is to be issued.
- Use the physical street address of the principal place of business (a P.O. Box may be added but cannot replace the street address).
- Indicate the number of plates requested for each classification and calculate subtotals.
- Provide detailed answers about projected sales, number of salespersons, and intended use of plates (personal, loaner, driving school, etc.).
- Answer all background questions truthfully regarding prior registrations, sanctions, convictions, bankruptcy, and outstanding liabilities.
- Complete the self-certification section (Section K) under penalty of perjury.
Incomplete or inaccurate applications are routinely returned, causing significant delays.
Where to Mail Form MV-349?
Mail the completed application and all supporting documents to:
PennDOT
Bureau of Motor Vehicles
P.O. Box 68283
Harrisburg, PA 17106-8283
For questions, contact PennDOT Driver and Vehicle Services at 717-412-5300 or visit www.pa.gov/dmv. TTY users should dial 711.
Additional Resources for Pennsylvania Vehicle Dealers
- Become a Vehicle Dealer – Official PennDOT Page
- Pub 459 – Requirements on Becoming a Dealer
- Pennsylvania State Board of Vehicle Manufacturers, Dealers and Salespersons
- Current Fee Schedule (MV-70S)
Frequently Asked Questions About Form MV-349
Can I apply for dealer plates before getting my Department of State license?
No. You must first be licensed by the Department of State. PennDOT will not process Form MV-349 without a valid lot license.
How long does processing take?
Processing times vary. Allow several weeks after PennDOT receives a complete application package. Incomplete submissions will be returned.
Can dealer plates be personalized?
Yes. Complete and attach Form MV-904D and pay the additional personalization fee of $136.
What if I need plates for a branch location?
Indicate “Add Branch Lot” on the form and provide the required documentation for the additional location.
Where can I get the most current version of the form?
Always download the latest edition directly from the official PennDOT website: Form MV-349 PDF.
Conclusion
Successfully obtaining vehicle dealer registration plates in Pennsylvania starts with proper completion of PennDOT Form MV-349. By first securing your Department of State dealer license, gathering all required supporting documents, calculating the correct fees, and submitting a complete package to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, you can avoid common delays and begin operating legally with dealer plates.
Download the official form today and refer to the current fee schedule and Pub 459 for the most accurate guidance. For the latest updates, always check the official Pennsylvania government websites.