PennDOT Form MV-591 DS: Speedometer Mechanic Certification – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) requires certified professionals to test, calibrate, and maintain speedometers and speed timing devices used in traffic enforcement. Form MV-591 DS is the official electronic application for individuals seeking certification as an Official Speedometer Testing & Calibration Mechanic or Official Speed Timing Device Mechanic. This guide explains everything U.S. applicants need to know about the form, eligibility, electronic submission process, and supporting regulations under Pennsylvania law.
What Is PennDOT Form MV-591 DS?
Form MV-591 DS is the digital version of the Application for Certification as Official Speedometer Testing & Calibration or Official Speed Timing Device Mechanic. It allows qualified applicants to apply online through PennDOT’s secure DocuSign process rather than mailing a paper form.
Certified mechanics perform critical work that supports accurate speed enforcement across Pennsylvania. Their certifications help ensure that speedometers and electronic, electrical, radar, non-radar, and stopwatch devices meet the standards required under 75 Pa.C.S. § 3368 and the detailed regulations in 67 Pa. Code Chapter 105.
The electronic form streamlines processing by routing the completed and signed application directly to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Vehicle Inspection Division.
Who Needs to Complete Form MV-591 DS?
This form is required for any individual who wants to become certified to:
- Test and calibrate vehicle speedometers
- Test, calibrate, and maintain official speed timing devices (electrical, electronic non-radar, electronic radar, stopwatch, or speedometer-based devices)
- Work as a technician at an official speedometer testing station or mobile testing unit in Pennsylvania
Speedometer testing stations must employ at least one certified technician. Certification demonstrates that the mechanic has the necessary training and experience to produce accurate Certificates of Accuracy that can be used as evidence in traffic cases.
Eligibility Requirements for Certification
According to the official instructions on Form MV-591, applicants must meet these minimum requirements:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Have successfully completed a course in speedometer testing and calibration and/or speed testing equipment
- Have at least six months of on-the-job training prior to submitting the application
Applicants must also indicate the specific types of equipment they are trained to operate and whether they have been trained to calibrate and test that equipment for accuracy. Supporting details about training location and duration are required on the form.
These standards align with the personnel requirements for speedometer testing stations outlined in 67 Pa. Code § 105.31 and related sections.
How to Complete and Submit Form MV-591 DS Electronically?
PennDOT offers a convenient electronic submission process using DocuSign. Follow these steps:
- Access the official electronic form link provided by PennDOT (the MV-591 DS version).
- Enter your full name and email address when prompted. If the form requires multiple signatures, you may also need to enter another signer’s information.
- Click “Begin Signing” to open the form.
- Complete all required fields, including personal information, training details, equipment types, and experience.
- Add your electronic signature at the end of the form.
- Click “Finish.” The completed form is automatically emailed to PennDOT for processing.
For technical issues with the digital signature process, reference “DocuSign DVS” when contacting PennDOT. For questions about the form content itself, reference “Form MV-591.”
Download the Official Form MV-591 DS
You can download the official electronic submission instructions and related materials directly from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania website:
Official Download Link:
Download Pennsylvania PennDOT Form MV-591 DS (PDF)
Always use the most current version available on the official PennDOT or pa.gov site to ensure compliance with the latest requirements.
Paper Version and Mailing Address
While electronic submission is preferred for faster processing, a paper version of Form MV-591 is also available. Completed paper applications should be mailed to:
Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Vehicle Inspection Division
P.O. Box 68697
Harrisburg, PA 17106-8697
Visit the official PennDOT Driver and Vehicle Services page at www.pa.gov/dmv for the latest forms and publications.
Related Pennsylvania Regulations and Standards
Certification under Form MV-591 supports compliance with key state laws and regulations governing speed timing devices:
- 75 Pa.C.S. § 3368 – Authorizes the Department to appoint stations for testing speedometers and calibrating speed timing devices. Devices must be tested for accuracy within specified periods (generally one year for radar and certain electronic devices, or 60 days for others).
- 67 Pa. Code Chapter 105 – Details requirements for mechanical, electrical, and electronic speed-timing devices, including appointment of testing stations, required equipment, testing procedures, and Certificates of Accuracy.
- Additional rules apply to automated speed enforcement systems under Chapter 105a.
Certified mechanics play an essential role in maintaining the integrity of evidence used in speed-related enforcement actions throughout Pennsylvania.
Contact PennDOT for Assistance
If you have questions about Form MV-591, the certification process, or technical issues with electronic submission, contact PennDOT’s Driver and Vehicle Services Customer Call Center:
- Phone: 717-412-5300
- TTY: Dial 711
- Website: www.pa.gov/dmv
When calling, clearly reference “Form MV-591” for form-related questions or “DocuSign DVS” for electronic signature technical support.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Gather documentation of your training course and on-the-job experience before starting the form.
- Be prepared to specify the exact types of speedometer testing equipment and speed timing devices (electrical, electronic non-radar, electronic radar, stopwatch, or speedometer) you are qualified to operate.
- Ensure all information matches your driver’s license or official identification exactly as required.
- Submit the electronic form only after carefully reviewing all entries for accuracy to avoid processing delays.
- Keep a copy of your submitted application and any confirmation emails for your records.
Why Certification Matters?
Accurate speed measurement is fundamental to fair traffic enforcement and public safety on Pennsylvania roads. Officially certified mechanics help ensure that testing and calibration meet state standards, supporting reliable Certificates of Accuracy that courts recognize as prima facie evidence. Whether you work at a fixed speedometer testing station or with mobile units, holding a current certification through Form MV-591 demonstrates professional competence and compliance with PennDOT requirements.