PennDOT MV-590: 20 Day Hunter Permit Application Guide – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) issues Form MV-590 for a temporary 20-day hunter permit. This permit provides short-term vehicle registration for commercial vehicles under specific conditions. It is commonly used by owner-operators when a lease with a carrier ends or when a vehicle is newly purchased.
Unlike hunting licenses issued by the Pennsylvania Game Commission, the hunter permit under Form MV-590 is a motor vehicle registration document. It allows limited operation of a vehicle at its unladen (empty) weight only.
Download the official Form MV-590 (PDF): Pennsylvania PennDOT Form MV-590 – 20 Day Hunter Permit Application
What Is a 20-Day Hunter Permit in Pennsylvania?
According to Pennsylvania regulations (67 Pa. Code § 63.54), a twenty-day hunter permit may be obtained from the Bureau of Motor Vehicles or authorized issuing agents. It is intended for:
- Owner-operators whose lease with a carrier has terminated
- Newly purchased vehicles
The permit is issued for a registered gross weight not exceeding the empty (unladen) weight of the vehicle. The vehicle described on the form can only be operated at its unladen weight.
This temporary registration helps owner-operators and commercial vehicle owners remain compliant while arranging permanent registration or other arrangements.
Who Needs Form MV-590?
Form MV-590 is typically required by:
- Independent owner-operators who no longer operate under a carrier’s apportioned registration
- Individuals or businesses that have newly purchased a commercial vehicle and need temporary operating authority
- Permit agents authorized to issue hunter permits in bulk
Applicants must provide accurate vehicle identification, personal or business details, and the requested permit dates (beginning and ending within a 20-day window).
Key Information Required on Form MV-590
The current version of the form (MV-590, revised 2-25) requests the following information:
- Requested permit dates (Beginning and Ending – Month/Day/Year)
- Applicant’s last name (or full business name), first name, and middle name
- Pennsylvania Driver’s License / Photo ID number or Business ID number
- Date of birth (for individuals)
- Mailing address, city, state, and ZIP code
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- State in which the vehicle is titled
- Vehicle make and year
- Unladen weight of the vehicle
- Applicant signature and date certifying the information is correct
The form also includes sections for departmental use only, including the issued hunter permit number and verification details.
Fee and Payment Instructions
The fee for an individual 20-day hunter permit is $10.00.
Make a check or money order payable to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Do not send cash through the mail.
Permit agents may purchase permits in books. Each book contains ten (10) single hunter permits and costs $100.00 ($10.00 per permit). Agents must purchase a minimum of one book.
How to Submit Form MV-590?
Mail the completed application along with the $10.00 payment to:
Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Commercial Registration Section
P.O. Box 68286
Harrisburg, PA 17106-8286
Ensure all information is complete and accurate to avoid delays. The form clearly states that the vehicle may only operate at its unladen weight while the permit is valid.
Important Rules and Limitations
- The permit is valid for a maximum of 20 consecutive days.
- Operation is restricted to the unladen weight of the vehicle only.
- The permit must be obtained from the Bureau or an authorized issuing agent.
- False information or misuse of the permit can result in penalties under Pennsylvania law.
Always refer to the most current version of the form and official Pennsylvania regulations for the latest requirements.
Where to Get the Official Form?
The official and current Form MV-590 is available directly from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania website:
Download PennDOT Form MV-590 (PDF)
Using the official form ensures you have the latest version with correct instructions and mailing address.
Additional Resources
- Pennsylvania Official Website
- 67 Pa. Code § 63.54 – Hunter Permits (Official Regulation)
- Legal Information Institute – 67 Pa. Code § 63.54
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 20-day hunter permit the same as a hunting license?
No. Form MV-590 is a temporary motor vehicle registration permit issued by PennDOT. Hunting licenses and permits for taking game are handled separately by the Pennsylvania Game Commission.
Can I operate the vehicle with a load under this permit?
No. The vehicle described on the form can only be operated at its unladen (empty) weight.
How long does processing take?
Processing times can vary. Submit the application well in advance of the desired start date to allow for mailing and review.
Where can permit agents buy books of permits?
Authorized permit agents apply through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles and must meet eligibility requirements, including ownership of a fleet of five or more vehicles in some cases.
Conclusion
Pennsylvania PennDOT Form MV-590 provides a practical temporary solution for owner-operators and vehicle owners who need short-term registration authority. By completing the form accurately, paying the $10.00 fee, and mailing it to the Commercial Registration Section, applicants can obtain a 20-day hunter permit that complies with state regulations.