PennDOT MV-401 DS: Safety Inspection Category Removal Form – Certified vehicle safety inspectors in Pennsylvania who need to update their credentials can use the official PennDOT Form MV-401 DS. This Safety Inspection Category Removal Request Form allows inspectors to request the removal of specific inspection categories from their certification through a convenient electronic submission process. The “DS” designation indicates the digital/electronic version of the form, which supports secure online completion and submission.
This form is issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Bureau of Motor Vehicles and is designed specifically for safety inspection station mechanics and inspectors who no longer wish to perform inspections in certain vehicle categories.
What Is PennDOT Form MV-401 DS?
Form MV-401 DS is the electronic version of the Safety Inspection Category Removal Request Form. It enables certified Pennsylvania safety inspectors to formally request that one or more inspection categories be removed from their official certification record maintained by PennDOT.
According to official PennDOT guidance, forms marked with a “DS” suffix are available for secure electronic submission. When selected from the official Forms, Publications and Maps page, these forms provide instructions for online completion and digital signature. Printable versions remain available for those who prefer traditional mailing.
The form was among more than 20 commonly used driver licensing and motor vehicle forms made available for electronic submission as part of PennDOT’s modernization efforts to improve customer service and reduce processing times.
Who Should Use Form MV-401 DS?
This form is intended exclusively for individuals who currently hold a valid Pennsylvania safety inspection certification. Typical users include:
- Official safety inspection station mechanics
- Certified vehicle inspectors authorized to perform periodic safety inspections
- Inspectors who wish to narrow the scope of vehicles they are authorized to inspect
It is not used by vehicle owners seeking to remove inspection stickers or by stations requesting other types of authorization changes. Only the certified inspector themselves (or their authorized representative following proper procedures) should complete and submit the form.
Inspection Categories That Can Be Removed
The form lists specific codes corresponding to the types of vehicles an inspector is authorized to examine. Inspectors may request removal of any of the following:
- Code 1 – Inspection of passenger cars, trucks 17,000 pounds or less, and trailers less than 10,000 pounds
- Code 2 – Inspection of motorcycles
- Code 3 – Inspection of trucks over 17,000 pounds, trailers over 10,000 pounds, and buses
- Code 4 – Inspection of all vehicles
- Code 5 – Inspections under codes 1 and 2
- Code 6 – Inspections under codes 2 and 3
- Code 7 – Inspections under codes 1 and 3
- Code J – Enhanced vehicle safety inspection
Important note: Once a category is removed, reinstating it later requires the inspector to complete the initial certification course and examination for that category again. This policy helps maintain high standards for vehicle safety inspections across Pennsylvania.
How to Complete and Submit Form MV-401 DS Electronically?
Electronic submission offers a faster and more efficient alternative to mailing a paper form. Follow these general steps based on PennDOT’s electronic form process:
- Download the official Form MV-401 DS from the PennDOT website.
- Open the form and complete all required fields, including your full name, Inspector ID Number, contact information, and the specific code(s) you wish to remove.
- Review the acknowledgment statement confirming that reinstating a removed category will require retaking the initial course and exam.
- Follow the secure electronic submission instructions provided with the DS form (typically involving digital signature and online transmission).
- Submit the completed form. PennDOT will process the request and update your certification record.
For technical assistance with digital signature tools or questions about the form, contact the PennDOT Driver and Vehicle Services Customer Call Center at 717-412-5300 and reference the appropriate form or digital process.
Download the Official Form MV-401 DS
Always obtain the most current version of the form directly from official Pennsylvania government sources to ensure accuracy and compliance.
Download Form MV-401 DS (PDF):
https://www.pa.gov/content/dam/copapwp-pagov/en/penndot/documents/public/dvspubsforms/bmv/bmv-forms/mv-401%20ds.pdf
A standard (non-electronic) version of Form MV-401 is also available for traditional paper submission if preferred.
Mailing Address for Paper Submissions
If you choose to submit a paper version of the form, mail the completed and signed document to:
Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Vehicle Inspection Division
P.O. Box 68697
Harrisburg, PA 17106-8697
Keep a copy of the submitted form for your records.
Important Considerations and Tips for Pennsylvania Inspectors
- Ensure your Inspector ID Number and personal information are accurate and match PennDOT records.
- Only request removal of categories you no longer intend to perform. Consider future business needs carefully, as reinstatement requires additional training and testing.
- Electronic submission generally results in faster processing compared to mailed forms.
- After submission, allow reasonable processing time. Contact PennDOT if you need confirmation of the status of your request.
- Maintain compliance with all Pennsylvania vehicle inspection regulations. Removing categories does not affect other requirements related to station operation or remaining certifications.
Additional Resources from Official Sources
For the latest forms, publications, and updates, visit the official PennDOT website:
- Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT)
- Driver and Vehicle Services section for inspection-related information
- Forms, Publications and Maps page for current versions of all official documents
PennDOT continues to expand electronic submission options to make services more accessible for Pennsylvania residents and businesses. Using Form MV-401 DS supports this modernization while helping certified inspectors efficiently manage their credentials.