PennDOT Form MV-558: Replace Apportioned Registration – Pennsylvania-based commercial carriers operating under the International Registration Plan (IRP) rely on apportioned registration credentials—specifically the apportioned license plate and cab card—to legally travel across multiple jurisdictions. When these credentials are lost, stolen, defaced, or never received, Form MV-558 is the official document required by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) to request duplicates or replacements.
This guide explains everything U.S. carriers and fleet managers need to know about Form MV-558, including when to use it, how to complete it correctly, required supporting documents, fees, and where to submit the application. All information is drawn from current official PennDOT sources.
What Is PennDOT Form MV-558?
Form MV-558, officially titled “Application for Duplicate or Replacement of Apportioned Registration Credentials,” is issued by PennDOT’s Bureau of Motor Vehicles. The current version is MV-558 (2-25), last updated in February 2025.
The form is used exclusively for vehicles registered under Pennsylvania’s apportioned (IRP) program. It allows carriers to request:
- Duplicate cab card(s) (registration cards)
- Replacement of an apportioned registration plate
Apportioned credentials are issued only to vehicles that travel (or are intended to travel) in two or more IRP member jurisdictions and meet specific weight or axle criteria, generally power units over 26,000 pounds gross vehicle weight or combinations exceeding that weight.
You can download the official Form MV-558 directly from PennDOT here: Download Pennsylvania Form MV-558 (PDF).
When Do You Need Form MV-558?
Use Form MV-558 in these common situations:
- Your apportioned registration plate has been lost, stolen, or defaced
- Your cab card (registration card) has been lost, stolen, or damaged
- You never received the original credentials in the mail within 90 days of issuance
- You need additional duplicate cab cards for your records or drivers
Important notes from PennDOT:
- If a plate is lost or stolen, it must be reported to the Pennsylvania State Police or local law enforcement before applying for a replacement.
- You cannot combine a plate replacement request with a registration transfer on the same application.
- Credit for a stolen plate may be available only if you return the original cab card with the application.
For standard (non-apportioned) passenger or commercial plates, use Form MV-44 instead. Form MV-558 is strictly for IRP/apportioned accounts.
How to Complete Form MV-558 Step by Step?
Follow these instructions carefully to avoid processing delays:
Section A – Applicant and Vehicle Information
- Enter all information exactly as it appears on your current registration card (ARP account number, equipment number, title number, VIN, plate number, and expiration date).
- If replacing credentials for the entire fleet, check the appropriate box.
- Include a change of address only if needed, and attach required proof (see Supporting Documents below).
- Optionally check the box if you want the new registration card(s) emailed after payment is processed.
Section B – Products Requested and Reason
- Select whether you need a duplicate cab card, replacement plate, or both.
- Indicate the reason: Lost, Stolen, Defaced, Never Received, or Other.
- Specify the number of duplicate cab cards needed. One free card is issued with a plate replacement; additional cards require a fee.
Section C – Applicant Signature
- Sign and date the form. Both owner and co-owner (if applicable) must sign.
Section D – Unsworn Declaration
- Required for all plate replacement requests and for free reissuance of products never received within 90 days.
- This is a self-certification under penalty of perjury; notarization is not required.
- For business-owned vehicles, attach a letter on company letterhead authorizing the signer.
Always attach a legible photocopy of the applicant’s valid photo identification (front and back).
Required Supporting Documents
In addition to the completed Form MV-558 and photo ID, the following may be required:
For address changes on an existing apportioned account:
- Individuals: Front and back copy of Pennsylvania driver’s license plus two of the following: utility bill, stamped paid HVUT 2290 receipt, real estate/personal property tax statement, Pennsylvania title or registration, or valid county weapons permit.
- Businesses: Proof of corporate documents filed with the Pennsylvania Department of State plus two of the documents listed above.
A change of address generates new cab cards for the entire fleet.
For business plate replacements: A letter on company letterhead authorizing the person signing Section D (and/or picking up the plate).
No fee is due if the original product was never received in the mail and the application is filed within 90 days of the original issuance date.
Fees for Form MV-558
Fees are listed on PennDOT Form MV-70S (Bureau of Motor Vehicles Schedule of Fees). Always check the current version of MV-70S on the official PennDOT website before submitting payment, as amounts are subject to periodic updates.
Typical fees include:
- Replacement of a standard registration plate
- Duplicate registration card (cab card) – higher fee when requested outside of initial issuance, transfer, renewal, or plate replacement
- Additional duplicate cards beyond the first one issued with a plate replacement
Payment must be made by check or money order payable to the “Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.” Do not send cash. Personalized apportioned plates (available only for vehicles up to 14,000 lbs registered gross weight) require a separate application (Form MV-904C) and additional fee.
Where and How to Submit Form MV-558?
Mail the completed form, supporting documents, photo ID copy, and payment to:
Bureau of Motor Vehicles
P.O. Box 68286
Harrisburg, PA 17106-8286
Apportioned credentials can sometimes be obtained the same day at the PennDOT Riverfront Office Center in Harrisburg for in-person processing (confirm current availability and requirements).
For general questions, contact PennDOT Driver and Vehicle Services at 717-412-5300 (TTY: dial 711) or visit the official website at www.pa.gov/dmv.
Related Apportioned Registration Forms and Resources
Carriers frequently need these companion forms:
- MV-550 / MV-550A – Apportioned Registration Application (Schedule A)
- MV-551 – Apportioned Registration Application (Schedule B – mileage)
- MV-552A – Apportioned Registration Supplement Application (for changes, transfers, or weight adjustments)
- MV-556 – New Apportioned Account Checklist / proof of residency
- MV-904C – Application for Personalized Commercial Registration Plate
Official guidance on apportioned registration, including the Full Reciprocity Plan and distance reporting, is available on the PennDOT Apportioned Registration Program page.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incomplete vehicle information that does not match the current cab card
- Failing to report a lost or stolen plate to law enforcement
- Omitting the required photo ID photocopy
- Sending cash instead of a check or money order
- Requesting a plate transfer on the same form used for replacement
- Missing the 90-day window for free reissuance of never-received credentials
Accurate completion and complete documentation significantly reduce processing time and the risk of rejection.
Conclusion
Form MV-558 is the essential tool for Pennsylvania IRP carriers who need to replace lost, stolen, defaced, or undelivered apportioned registration plates and cab cards. By downloading the current official form, carefully following the instructions, attaching all required documentation, and submitting the correct fees, fleet operators can restore legal operating credentials quickly and efficiently.
Always use the latest version of Form MV-558 available from PennDOT and verify current fees on Form MV-70S. For the most reliable information, rely exclusively on official Commonwealth of Pennsylvania resources.