PennDOT Form MV-587: TEAR Books Request Guide – If you are a Temporary Authorization (TA) Agent in Pennsylvania or a motor carrier working with the International Registration Plan (IRP), understanding PennDOT Form MV-587 is essential. This official form allows approved agents to request books of Temporary Evidence of Apportioned Registration (TEAR) forms, commonly known as Temporary Authorization certificates. These 60-day temporary credentials help commercial vehicles operate legally while permanent apportioned registration is processed.
What Is PennDOT Form MV-587?
Form MV-587, titled “Request for Temporary Evidence of Apportioned Registration Authorization Books,” is the official application used by authorized Temporary Authorization Agents to order TEAR books from PennDOT’s Commercial Registration Section.
Each book contains 25 individual TEAR forms. These temporary certificates serve as evidence of apportioned registration for up to 60 days while a full IRP application is under review. The form is revised as of March 2025 (MV-587 (3-25)).
You can download the official Form MV-587 PDF directly from PennDOT here: Download PennDOT Form MV-587 (PDF).
Who Can Use Form MV-587?
Only individuals or businesses already approved as Temporary Authorization Agents (TA Agents) under contract with PennDOT may submit Form MV-587. To become a TA Agent, applicants must first:
- Hold an existing agent contract with PennDOT
- Complete Form MV-576 (Certificate of Authorization / Application for Authorization to Issue Apportioned Registration Credentials)
- Provide required supporting documents (bank letter of reference, three business references, agent contract number)
- Complete PennDOT’s TA Agent training course
Once approved and trained, the agent may order TEAR books using Form MV-587. Motor carriers themselves do not order these books directly; they obtain temporary credentials through authorized TA Agents.
For more details on becoming a TA Agent, visit the official PennDOT page: Apply to be a Temporary Authorization Agent.
Purpose of Temporary Evidence of Apportioned Registration (TEAR)
Pennsylvania participates in the International Registration Plan (IRP), which allows commercial vehicles that travel across multiple U.S. and Canadian jurisdictions to register once in their base state and receive a single plate and cab card valid in all member jurisdictions.
When a vehicle is added to an apportioned fleet or when weight increases are needed, a 60-day Temporary Evidence of Apportioned Registration (TEAR) can be issued by a TA Agent. This temporary credential allows the vehicle to operate legally while PennDOT processes the permanent registration.
According to PennDOT’s Apportioned Registration Instruction Manual (Pub 181) and Pennsylvania regulations (67 Pa. Code § 63.51), a TEAR is valid for 60 days from the date of first use. Agents must collect applicable registration fees from the customer before issuing the temporary form and submit the original application materials to PennDOT within five days.
How to Complete Form MV-587
The form is straightforward but must be completed accurately. Key sections include:
- Applicant Information – Full business name, Business ID (EIN), Account Number (TEAR number), mailing address, city, state, ZIP code, email, and telephone number
- Quantity Requested – Number of TEAR books (25 forms per book). Limit of two books per request
- Certification Statement – The authorized agent certifies that the forms will be used in accordance with Pennsylvania statutes and regulations
- Signature – Must be signed by an authorized agent (owner, partner, or principal agent approved by PennDOT)
Incomplete applications will be rejected. Agents and employees must also acknowledge they have read and understand Title 67, Chapter 65 of the Pennsylvania Code regarding permit agents.
Fees and Payment Requirements
Each book of 25 TEAR forms costs $50 ($2 per form). Agents may order a maximum of two books at a time.
Acceptable payment methods are limited to:
- Business check
- Money order
Make checks or money orders payable to the “Commonwealth of Pennsylvania” or “Commonwealth of PA.” Personal checks are not accepted.
Where to Mail Form MV-587
Mail the completed Form MV-587 along with the required payment to:
Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Commercial Registration Section
P.O. Box 68286
Harrisburg, PA 17106-8286
For express deliveries or in-person questions, contact the Commercial Registration Section at the Riverfront Office Center in Harrisburg. General customer service is available at 717-412-5300 (TTY: 711).
Important Rules and Compliance Notes
TA Agents must follow strict rules when issuing TEARs:
- Collect all required registration fees from the customer before issuing the temporary form
- Issue TEARs for no more than 60 days
- Submit the original application and fees to PennDOT within five days
- Maintain proper accountability of all forms; improper use can result in the agent being charged full Pennsylvania registration fees plus fees for other jurisdictions
- TEAR forms are not transferable between carriers
Failure to comply can lead to loss of agent authorization and financial liability.
Official regulations are available in the Pennsylvania Code: 67 Pa. Code § 63.51 – Pennsylvania temporary authorization certificates.
Related Forms and Resources
Agents and carriers frequently use these related PennDOT forms and publications:
- Form MV-576 – Application for Authorization to Issue Apportioned Registration Credentials
- Form MV-550 – Apportioned Registration Application – Schedule A
- Pub 181 – Apportioned Registration Instruction Manual
- PennDOT Apportioned Registration Program page
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a TEAR valid?
A Temporary Evidence of Apportioned Registration is valid for 60 days from the date it is first used.
Can I order more than two books at once?
No. PennDOT limits requests to two books (50 forms) per application.
Where can I find a list of TA Agents?
PennDOT publishes a county-by-county list of Temporary Authority Agents on its website. Search “TA Agents By County” on pa.gov/dmv.
What happens if a TEAR form is filled out incorrectly?
Voided forms must be returned to the Commercial Registration Section immediately with an explanation. Agents remain accountable for all issued and voided forms.
Conclusion
PennDOT Form MV-587 is the official request form that enables Temporary Authorization Agents to stock Temporary Evidence of Apportioned Registration Authorization Books. Proper use of these 60-day TEAR credentials keeps commercial vehicles legally on the road while permanent IRP registration is processed.
Always download the latest version of the form, complete it accurately, and submit it with the correct payment to avoid delays. For the most current information, visit the official PennDOT Driver and Vehicle Services website at www.pa.gov/dmv or contact the Commercial Registration Section at 717-412-5300.