PennDOT MV-591: Speedometer Mechanic Certification – If you work with vehicle speedometers or speed timing devices in Pennsylvania, Form MV-591 is the official application you need. Issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Bureau of Motor Vehicles, this form allows qualified individuals to apply for certification as an Official Speedometer Testing & Calibration Mechanic or Official Speed Timing Device Mechanic. This certification is essential for ensuring the accuracy of equipment used in traffic enforcement and vehicle inspections across the Commonwealth.
This guide covers everything U.S. residents, particularly those in Pennsylvania, need to know about Form MV-591, including eligibility, required information, how to download and submit the application, and related regulations. All information is drawn from official PennDOT sources and Pennsylvania regulations.
What Is PennDOT Form MV-591?
Form MV-591 is the official application used to request certification as an Official Speedometer Testing & Calibration Mechanic or Official Speed Timing Device Mechanic in Pennsylvania. Certified mechanics perform critical testing and calibration of speedometers and various speed timing devices used by law enforcement and authorized stations.
These certifications support compliance with Pennsylvania Vehicle Code provisions on speed timing devices. Accurate testing helps ensure that speed-related evidence presented in court is reliable. The current version of the form is MV-591 (2-25).
You can download the official Form MV-591 directly from PennDOT here: Download PennDOT Form MV-591 (PDF).
Who Needs to Complete Form MV-591?
This form is required for individuals seeking certification to test and calibrate speedometers or speed timing devices at official stations in Pennsylvania. Speedometer testing stations must employ at least one certified technician. Applications are reviewed by the PennDOT Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Vehicle Inspection Division.
Certification covers several categories of equipment, including electrical devices, electronic (non-radar) devices, electronic (radar) devices, stopwatches, and speedometers. Mechanics may also work with related systems under Pennsylvania regulations governing mechanical, electrical, and electronic speed-timing devices.
Eligibility Requirements for Certification
To qualify for original certification using Form MV-591, applicants must meet specific criteria outlined by PennDOT:
- 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.
- Provide proof of education or experience in the testing and repair of speedometers where required.
- Read, write, and understand the English language.
Applicants must also disclose any arrests or convictions for felonies, misdemeanors, or periodic motor vehicle inspection violations. A conviction record does not automatically result in rejection; each case is reviewed on its own merits. False statements on the application can lead to prosecution under the Pennsylvania Crimes Code, with potential fines up to $5,000 and/or imprisonment for up to two years.
These requirements align with regulations in Title 67 of the Pennsylvania Code, Chapter 105, which govern the appointment and operation of speedometer testing stations and the certification of technicians.
Information Required on Form MV-591
The application collects personal and professional details. Key sections include:
- Personal information: Full name (exactly as it appears on your Pennsylvania driver’s license or photo ID), PA DL/Photo ID number, date of birth, home address, city, state, county, ZIP code, and telephone number.
- Types of speedometer testing equipment you are trained to operate.
- Confirmation of training to calibrate and test the equipment for accuracy (Yes/No).
- Types of speed timing devices you are trained to operate (check all that apply): Electrical, Electronic (Non-Radar), Electronic (Radar), Stopwatch, and Speedometer.
- Details of training location and duration as a speedometer/speed timing device mechanic.
- Record of any arrests for felonies, misdemeanors, or inspection violations, including date, nature of violation, and disposition.
- Prior approval or suspension status as an Official Speedometer/Speed Timing Device Testing Mechanic.
- English language proficiency confirmation.
You must print your name and sign the form in ink exactly as it appears on your driver’s license. Incomplete applications are typically rejected.
How to Download and Complete Form MV-591?
The official Form MV-591 is available as a free PDF download from the Pennsylvania government website. Use the direct link provided earlier: https://www.pa.gov/content/dam/copapwp-pagov/en/penndot/documents/public/dvspubsforms/bmv/bmv-forms/mv-591.pdf.
Print the form and complete it legibly in ink or type all answers. Failure to supply complete information will cause the application to be rejected. Sign your name in full as it appears on your Pennsylvania driver’s license.
For faster processing, PennDOT offers an online submission option through DocuSign. Instructions for digital completion and electronic signature are available via the related MV-591 DS document on the official PennDOT forms page. After completing the online form and signing, it is emailed directly to PennDOT for processing.
Where to Submit Form MV-591
Mail completed paper applications to:
Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Vehicle Inspection Division
P.O. Box 68697
Harrisburg, PA 17106-8697
Online submissions via DocuSign are processed promptly after electronic signature and completion. Upon receipt, PennDOT reviews the application and notifies the applicant of any additional steps required to complete the certification process.
For questions about Form MV-591 itself, contact PennDOT’s Driver and Vehicle Services Customer Call Center at 717-412-5300 and reference “Form MV-591.” For technical issues with the digital signature process, reference “DocuSign DVS.” TTY callers can dial 711. Visit the official website at www.pa.gov/dmv for additional resources.
Related Pennsylvania Regulations and Standards
Certification under Form MV-591 supports compliance with 75 Pa.C.S. § 3368 (Speed timing devices) and Title 67 Pa. Code Chapter 105 (Mechanical, Electrical and Electronic Speed-Timing Devices). Key points include:
- Speedometers must be tested for accuracy within one year prior to an alleged violation and immediately upon change of tire size.
- Electronic radar devices require testing within one year; other devices generally within 60 days.
- Speedometer testing stations must maintain required equipment (such as approved dynamometers or calibrators) and keep certificates of accuracy on file for at least three years.
- Stations must employ at least one certified technician and display a valid Certificate of Appointment.
These rules help ensure that speed timing evidence is competent and prima facie in court proceedings. Additional standards apply to automated speed enforcement systems under related chapters of the Pennsylvania Code.
Tips for a Successful Application
Double-check that all information matches your driver’s license exactly. Gather documentation of your training course and on-the-job experience before starting. Disclose any relevant conviction history completely and accurately. If applying online, follow the DocuSign prompts carefully and retain confirmation of submission.
Keep copies of your completed application and any supporting materials. Certification is subject to PennDOT review, and additional steps may be required after initial submission.
Frequently Asked Questions About Form MV-591
Is there a fee for Form MV-591?
The form itself is free to download and submit. Any associated certification or station appointment fees, if applicable, are handled separately through PennDOT processes.
Can I renew an existing certification with this form?
Form MV-591 is primarily for original applications. Contact PennDOT at 717-412-5300 for guidance on renewals or changes in status.
What happens after I submit the form?
PennDOT reviews the application and notifies you of next steps needed to complete the certification process.
Where can I find more official information?
Visit the official PennDOT Driver and Vehicle Services site at www.pa.gov/dmv or review the relevant sections of Title 67 of the Pennsylvania Code.
Conclusion
Form MV-591 is the essential first step for anyone seeking to become a certified Official Speedometer Testing & Calibration or Official Speed Timing Device Mechanic in Pennsylvania. By meeting the age, training, and experience requirements and submitting a complete, accurate application, you can help maintain the integrity of speed measurement systems used throughout the state.