606 Pennsylvania
The 2017 MVR Access and Decoder Digest
Pennsylvania
Administration
Kara N. Templeton, Director
Bureau of Driver Licensing
Department of Transportation
Riverfront Office Center, 4th Floor
1101 South Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17104
www.dmv.state.pa.us
Important Telephone and Web Contacts
Driver and Vehicle Services ........................717-391-6190
Commercial Driver License.........................717-783-3653
General Number ..........................................717-412-5300
State Department of Insurance ....................717-787-2317
State Police..................................................717-783-5599
Email contact list at:
www.dmv.pa.gov/Pages/Contact-Us.aspx
Vehicle Code - Title 75:
https://www.dot4.state.pa.us/vehicle_code/index.shtml
Driver's License Format, Issuance, and Renewal
License Classes, Restrictions, and Endorsements Appear After the Driving Record Content Section
License Format
The format is eight numbers. There is no code in the sequential
arrangement determining the digits making the license number.
Document Appearance
The current version of the driver license has been in circulation since
07/31/2001, the current Temporary License/ID Card since 10/2007.
The "PA" in the Keystone appears in all licenses and ID Cards effective
02/2008. At this time PA does not issue REAL ID compliant driver and
ID cards. In October 2015, DHS issued Pennsylvania an extension until
October 10, 2016.
Security Characteristics: Features include a holographic overlay that
displays the “Keystone” in the foreground and county names in the
background. The cards have a thick security coating or hologram, an
area to denote organ donors, and different colored bands to indicate
product type. Regular licenses have a blue colored band appearing on
left side, ID cards have a yellow band, under 18 drivers have a green
band. There is a red banner on all restricted license documents. In the
lower right corner of the license document is a visible box that
indicates the type of license.
Position of Photo: On the left side, inside the colored band.
Minor Age Driver Locator: For driver under 21, cards are produced
in a vertical format. Above the picture, the date the individual turns 18
is highlighted in yellow and the date they turn 21 is highlighted in red.
Drivers under 21 have a blue band, drivers under 18 have a green band.
Occupational: The wording inside the red banner on the left side
indicates Limited License. The Keystone in lower right corner
indicates Occupational License.
Probationary: The wording inside the red banner on the left side
indicates Limited License. The Keystone in lower right corner
indicates Probationary License.
Ignition Interlock: The wording inside the red banner on the left side
indicates Limited License. The Keystone in lower right corner
indicates Ignition Interlock License.
CDL Indicator: “COMMERCIAL DRIVERS LICENSE” appears
within blue band on left.
Note: Since October 2007, a Temporary License/ID Card is used to
new applicants. This card looks like the other products except the
banner is gray, the word "Temporary" is printed in red across the
license and the expiration date is outlined in red. In addition, the
overlay on the front is changed to include "PA" in the Keystone. The
temporary product is valid for 15 days and provides PennDOT time to
ensure the individual's photograph does not match another photograph
in the database under a different driver name(s).
Registered Sex Offender Indicator: None
Issuance
A list of list of acceptable documents for proof of identity and residency
for U.S. and Non-U.S. Citizens, shown in 11 different languages, is at
from
a
link
at
/www.dmv.pa.gov/Driver-Services/DriverLicensing/Pages/Drivers-License.aspx.
Age Requirements
The minimum age is sixteen; eighteen for CDL. Below is information
on various permits.
Learner's Permit: Required; sixteen; mandatory six months on learner
permit before eligible to take skills test; certification of 65 hours
behind-the-wheel skill building prior to skills test; must have
parent/guardian consent and be accompanied by a licensed driver,
twenty-one or older, licensed in the same class; driving permitted only
between 5AM to 11PM.
Junior License: Sixteen and six months; must have passed all skills
requirements of leaner's permit. For the first six months, a driver is not
permitted to have more than one passenger under age 18 who is not an
immediate family member in the vehicle unless accompanied by a
parent or legal guardian. If they have not been convicted of a driving
violation or been partially or fully responsible for a reportable crash
after six months, they may have up to three passengers under age 18
who are not immediate family members without a parent or legal
guardian present. If they have any convictions or are partially or fully
responsible for a reportable crash while a junior driver, they are once
again restricted to one passenger.
Unrestricted License: Possible at seventeen and six months if crash
and conviction free record for twelve months; completion of approved
driver's education course.
Note: Occupational Limited Licenses can be issued under certain
circumstances, except to drivers convicted of homicide by vehicle and
other serious traffic offenses in Chapter 37 Subchapter B, as well as all
Subchapter C, convictions relating to accidents and accident reports.
CLP: Any Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) issued on or after
December 21, 2015, will be valid for no more than 180 days.
Additionally, if a permit expires or was renewed once and needs to be
renewed again, all knowledge tests must be retaken.
Residency
A non-resident's home-state license is honored on a reciprocal basis.
One must secure a PA license within sixty days of establishing
residency. A knowledge test is not required for new residents with outof-state driver's licenses which are valid or expired six months or less.
The 2017 MVR Access and Decoder Digest
Renewal
Licenses expire one day after the licensee's birthdate on fourth year;
drivers over age sixty-five have the option of two-year renewals. Driver
keeps same number when renewing. Non-commercial drivers
may renew online, providing there are no corrections or changes. Go to
www.dmv.pa.gov/Driver-Services/Driver-Licensing/Pages/Renewal.aspx l.
If an out-of-state driver's license has been expired for more than six
months, it cannot be transferred for a PA driver's license. The driver
Pennsylvania
607
must apply for a PA Learner's Permit and complete all applicable
knowledge and skills tests in order to obtain the driver's license.
Military personnel who have an expired license do not have to renew as
long as they are active duty.
Elderly-Related Restrictions
Individuals age 65 or older have the option of renewing their license
every two years, instead of standard four years.
Vehicle Insurance, Title, and Registration Facts
Registration Renewal
Renewal is annual. Renewal may be performed online for passenger
cars, truck weighing less than 54,999 pounds (there are exceptions), and
trailers; current insurance information is required. Renewal is available
from the home page at www.dmv.state.pa.us, and from there view the
exceptions list.
Also private businesses (Online Messengers - OLM) are contracted to
provide vehicle registration services for customers. In many cases, the
product can be handed immediately over the counter to the customer
since the OLM has an online connection with PennDOT. The OLM
charges the normal state fee plus a service fee for its service.
New Residents
All new residents are required to make application for Pennsylvania title
and registration of their vehicle(s) within 20 days of establishing
residency in Pennsylvania. A vehicle newly registered in Pennsylvania
must be safety inspected within ten (10) days of the registration date. If titling and registering a 2008 or newer vehicle with a gross vehicle
weight rating (GVWR) of 8,500 pounds or less, and it has less than
7,500 miles on the odometer, the vehicle must be certified by the
California Air Resources Board (CARB).
Inspections and Emissions Testing
Pennsylvania has an annual vehicle safety inspection provision. There
is no statewide emission testing program, but four regional areas require
annual emission testing:
Pittsburgh area (Allegheny, Beaver,
Washington, and Westmoreland counties); South Central (Berks,
Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Northampton, and
York counties);
Philadelphia area (Bucks, Chester, Delaware,
Philadelphia, and Montgomery counties); and the Northern region
(Blair, Cambria, Centre, Erie, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Lycoming, and
Mercer counties).
Thus, vehicles registered in 42 counties are not required to pass the
emissions inspection. However, as part of the safety inspection most
passenger vehicles and light trucks weighing 11,000 pounds and less are
required to pass a visual anti-tampering check. The visual antitampering check is a visual inspection for the presence of emission
control components that were installed on a vehicle by the
manufacturer. Vehicles registered as classic or collectible are exempt
from the anti-tampering portion of the safety inspection.
Passenger Plate Facts
There is one plate and one decal (MO & YR). There is no coding
sequence which depicts county of issuance. When a vehicle is sold, the
plate remains with the seller.
Insurance and Financial Responsibility
Pennsylvania has a compulsory liability insurance law in effect with
minimum limits for responsibility at $15,000/30,000/5,000. The state
has no-fault insurance provisions. The state requires proof of insurance
or financial responsibility at registration or renewal and after an
accident or certain violations. What constitutes acceptable proof of
insurance is found at www.dmv.state.pa.us/insurance/proof.shtml. The
SR-22 form is not used. A person or company desiring to qualify as a
self-insurer must file a proposal of self-insurance with PennDOT for
approval.
Withdrawal Sanctions, and Alcohol and Drug Testing
Alcohol and Chemical Testing Limits
The illegal intoxication level is 0.08 percent and above, .04 for CDL drivers except school bus drivers which is .02, and .02 for drivers under 21.
There is a three-tier measurement system that dictates the penalties (.08 to .099%, .10 to .159%, and .16% and higher). Breath, blood, or urine testing
are authorized. There is an implied-consent law, but not a provision for an administrative suspension per se. Operating a horse or bicycle under the
influence is also considered illegal.
Suspensions and Revocations
See the Appendix for a list of the federally mandated disqualifications for offenses occurring in a CMV per MCSIA. Also, a Fact Sheet on CDL
Sanctions is found at www.dmv.state.pa.us/pdotforms/fact_sheets/fs-pub7216.pdf.
DUI Convictions (Fines and jail sentences also imposed, which increase based on level and number of previous offenses.)
.08 to .099% BAC - 2nd offense or 3rd offense................................................Twelve-month suspension
.10 to .159% BAC
1st or 2nd offense..........................................................................................Twelve-month suspension.
3rd or 4th offense..........................................................................................Eighteen-month suspension.
.16% or higher BAC
1st offense.....................................................................................................Twelve-month suspension.
2nd or greater offense ...................................................................................Eighteen-month suspension.
DUI Commercial Driver, 2nd conviction..........................................................Lifetime disqualification.
DUI ARD (Accelerated Rehabilitation Program) .............................................Maximum ninety days suspension.
Careless Driving Causing Serious Bodily Injury.......................................................Three-month suspension.
Careless Driving Causing Unintentional Death.........................................................Six-month suspension.
Child Support or Domestic Relations Issues .............................................................Indefinite.
Conviction of Thirty-one mph Over Limit ................................................................Fifteen-day suspension.
Drivers under age of eighteen
608 Pennsylvania
The 2017 MVR Access and Decoder Digest
Accumulation of Six or More Points ................................................................Ninety-day suspension.
High Speed Conviction (26 or more over posted limit) ....................................Ninety-day suspension.
Second occurrence of either above ...................................................................One hundred twenty-day suspension.
Driving Without Insurance ........................................................................................Three-month suspension.
Excessive Speed (31 or more MPH over)..................................................................Fifteen-day suspension.
Failure to Attend Departmental Hearings..................................................................Sixty-day suspension.
Failure to Comply With Crossing Gate or barrier......................................................Thirty-day suspension.
Failure to Stop for School Bus With Flashing Red Lights.........................................Sixty-day suspension.
Habitual Offender......................................................................................................Five-year revocation.
Operating a Vehicle Without Insurance or Financial Responsibility.........................Three-month suspension.
Point Accumulation of Six Points
Second Time at Six Points (Departmental Hearing) .........................................Fifteen-day suspension.
Failure to Attend Departmental Hearing...........................................................Sixty-day suspension.
Third Time at Six Points (Departmental Hearing) ............................................Thirty-day suspension.
Failure to Attend Departmental Hearing...........................................................Indefinite suspension.
Point Accumulation of Eleven or More Points
First Suspension................................................................................................Five days per point.
Second Suspension ...........................................................................................Ten days per point.
Third Suspension ..............................................................................................Fifteen days per point.
Subsequent Suspensions ...................................................................................One-year suspension.
Point Accumulation if Under 18 Years Old.
The driving privilege of a person under the age of 18 will be suspended if that person accumulates six or more points or is convicted of
driving 26 miles per hour or more over the posted speed limit. The first suspension will be for a period of 90 days. Any additional occurrences
will result in a suspension of 120 days. This suspension is in addition to the requirements of the point system.
Note About Removal for Points for Safe Driving: Three points are removed from a driving record for every 12 consecutive months a person
drives (from the date of the last violation) without a violation which results in points, license suspension or revocation.
Possession, sale, or delivery of controlled substance regardless if motor vehicle involved:
First Offense .....................................................................................................Six-month suspension.
Second Offense.................................................................................................One-year suspension.
Third or Subsequent Offense ............................................................................Two-year suspension.
Work Zone (active) Speeding if involved in accident or if 11 MPH or more over....Fifteen-day suspension.
Insurance: Failure to maintain liability insurance on a registered vehicle may result in a three month suspension of a vehicle’s registration.
Reinstatement Requirements
The Restoration fees, which increased 1/01/2015, can vary from $70.00 to $188.00 depending on the specific type of suspension or revocation. A
reinstatement requires proof of financial responsibility for ether a suspension or a revocation. In addition, if a revocation is involved, then the driver
must reapply for driving privilege by applying for learner's permit under some circumstances.
Record Access: Laws, Rules, and Forms
Note:
This Section Applies to Both Driver and Vehicle Records.
Governing Statutes and Rules
Statutes: www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/LI/Public/cons_index.cfm
Vehicle Code: https://www.dot4.state.pa.us/vehicle_code/index.shtml
Record searches must be in compliance with Section 6114 of the
Vehicle Code, 75 Pa.C.S. § 6114, Limitation on sale, publication, and
disclosure of records; Title 67, Pennsylvania Code, Chapter 95, Sale,
Publication, or Disclosure of Driver, Vehicle, and Accident Records and
Information; the Federal Driver’s Privacy Protection Act, 18 U.S.C., §§
2721, et seq.; and the Federal Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 U.S.C. §§
1681, et seq.
Policy Statement Regarding Permissible Uses
Pennsylvania adopted the DPPA exceptions (uses) and added the
following exceptions:
(1) Required or authorized under this title to be sold, published or
disclosed.
(2) Authorized in writing by the person who is the subject of the
record or report to be sold, published or disclosed. A police officer,
or officer, employee or agent of a Commonwealth agency or local
authority may rely on a certification from a person requesting a
record or report under this paragraph that its sale, publication or
disclosure has been authorized by the person who is the subject of
the record or report. In the event such sale, publication or
disclosure shall not have been authorized, the person who made the
false certification, rather than the police officer or officer,
employee or agent of the Commonwealth agency or local authority,
shall be guilty of the offense defined by this section.
(3) Required to be released by order of court.
(4) Authorized by departmental regulation to be sold, published or
disclosed to any Federal, State or local governmental agency for the
sole purpose of exercising a legitimate governmental function or
duty. Such records or reports shall not be resold, published or
disclosed by the receiving agency for any commercial purpose or
without prior departmental approval.
(4.1) Of a constituent released to a member of Congress or of the
General Assembly or to an employee of a member of Congress or
of the General Assembly. Under this paragraph, records or reports
may not be sold, published or disclosed by the member or the
employee for any commercial purpose without prior approval by
the department.
(5) Purchased by a person who, in compliance with the Fair Credit
Reporting Act (84 Stat. 1127-1136, 15 U.S.C. § 1601 et seq.), has
filed with the department an affidavit, in form acceptable to the
department, certifying the intended use of said records or reports.
(6) Obtained in any form, including computer access, by a messenger
service which has filed an affidavit of intended use with the
department and which maintains on file at its office of record an
authorization in writing by the person who is the subject of the
obtained record or report. The authorizations are subject to
The 2017 MVR Access and Decoder Digest
inspection by the department and shall be retained for a period of
two years. The records or reports may not be accessed, sold,
published or disclosed by the messenger service for any
commercial purpose except the filed intended use without prior
approval by the department.
Request and Consent Forms
The page to find forms is at:
www.dmv.pa.gov/_layouts/pa.penndot.formsandpubs/formsandpubs.aspx
Driving Record: Internet User Affidavit: A signed, notarized copy of
DL-9001 Internet User Application/Licensing Agreement must be
submitted by authorized users who wish to obtain records via the DOT
Internet site. (Depending on type of requester, DL-9002, DL9004, or
DL-9005 may be required instead.) This form lists a series of restrictions
including but not limited to:
• Requester understands that the driver record is confidential and
restricted information and will establish procedures to protect the
confidentiality of these records.
• Requester agrees not to sell, assign or otherwise transfer to any other
party the information obtained from PennDOT.
• Requester understands that PennDOT retains exclusive ownership of
all driver record information provided and Requester agrees not to
combine and/or link in with any other data on any database except as
may be required by law.
• Requester will not disseminate or publish on the Internet personal
information obtained from PennDOT or allow any other person to
disseminate or publish the personal information on the Internet
without the express written permission of PennDOT.
• Requester understands that he/she is responsible for all actions taken
with their assigned commercial account number and password and
will establish procedures to protect this information. Requester
understands that he/she must contact PennDOT immediately if they
feel their account number and/or password has been used by any
unauthorized person or for any fraudulent or non-legitimate purpose.
• Requester agrees that PennDOT, or an independent auditor selected
by PennDOT, may audit their records as to their performance under
this Licensing Agreement. The degree and conduct of any such
audit, and the frequency of such audits, will be at the sole discretion
of PennDOT and will focus on compliance with the terms of this
Pennsylvania
609
Licensing Agreement. Requester agrees to fully cooperate with
PennDOT’s auditors and agrees to be responsible for ensuring
cooperation by any and all employees.
• Requester understands that he/she must utilize Internet Explorer
browser version 5.0 or higher with 128-bit encryption to perform
online transactions. Requester agrees to limit the number of business
transactions to 25 per session. Requester further understands that
he/she must close their browser after each session.
Pre-employment screening companies can utilize the DOT Internet site
to obtain driver records on behalf of their customers. An Affidavit of
Intended Use must be submitted by all customers of approved wholesale
accounts and pre-employment screening companies. This form requires
the signature of the requester be notarized.
Driving Record: Non-Internet Requests: For the permissible use
requesters that submit non-electronic requests directly to the Department
for records, Form DL-503 must be used, which requires the notarized
signature of the requester unless the requester is the request subject. See
www.dot.state.pa.us/Public/DVSPubsForms/BDL/BDL%20Form/DL503.pdf. The form remains valid for three months. All government
requesters must submit the Government Agency Internet
Application/License Agreement form.
Vehicle Records: Either a release signed by the owner or a statement of
intended use must be submitted when requesting a vehicle record.
Complete State Form DL-135 which requires the notarized signature of
the requester and non-notarized signature of the subject. The form is at
www.dot.state.pa.us/Public/DVSPubsForms/BMV/BMV%20Forms/dl135.pdf
Vendor and Third Party Access Policy
Wholesale vendors can only sell to end-users who are pre-approved by
the state, otherwise record sold vendor-to-vendor is strictly forbidden.
The state restricts the use, storage, or resale of records after a completed
transaction. See the Internet User Affidavit above.
Non-permissible Use Requests
No record information is released without consent, even records without
personal information.
Access to Driver-Related Records
Driving Records
General Information and Fees
Driver Record Services, Department of Transportation, PO Box 68695,
Harrisburg PA 17106-8695, 717-391-6190.
The in-state toll-free number for questions is 800-932-4600. A $9.00 fee
is charged for these different record types listed below.
1. Basic information
2. Three-year driving record
3. Ten-year record on a commercial driver for employment purposes
only
4. Full history record on a commercial driver for employment
purposes only.
5. Other documents retained on microfilm and available for purchase
A copy of a document may be obtained from microfilm for the same fee.
Pennsylvania charges for a no record found search. Add $23.00 for
certification for any of the record types. The DL-503 Form is found at
www.dot.state.pa.us/Public/DVSPubsForms/BDL/BDL%20Form/DL503.pdf.
Also, a Letter of Clearance may be requested for $9.00. Use DL-130 at
www.dot.state.pa.us/Public/DVSPubsForms/BDL/BDL%20Form/DL130.pdf.
In-Person – This agency will process one driving record request overthe-counter at the 1st Floor Customer Service Area at 1101 S Front St in
Harrisburg while you wait. More than one request can not be processed
while waiting, but will be forwarded to the processing area and mailed
upon completion. Records may also be obtained from PennDot's Driver
License Centers. Note the Centers take only checks or money orders; no
cash or credit cards are accepted at these locations.
Mail – The Harrisburg address is the only location to provide certified
driving records, Clearance Letters and microfilm access. The driver's
license number, name, and date of birth are needed when ordering.
Casual requesters must submit Form DL-503 (downloadable from web).
The fee must accompany each request. Turnaround time is 7-10 days.
Electronic Record Access – PennDOT provides an online
business driver record service developed in partnership with
Pennsylvania Interactive (PAI). This service is for approved requesters
which are usually businesses who obtain driver histories for the purpose
of employment or insurance. Requesters must first establish an account
with PennDOT and also register with PAI. For more information, see the
links at https://apps.pa.egov.com/badr. There is a $200 non-refundable
application fee. The fee is $9.00 per record.
The driver's license number and first two letters of the last name are
required when ordering. Payment in full is required before information
is released. However, note that all signed agreements forbid the
requester from using the Internet as a means to transmit data to
end-user clients without express written permission from PennDOT.
High volume vendors who directly represent permissible users may
access on an interactive basis.
Note online access is available the public for drivers to order their own
record. See the By Person of Record section to follow.
610 Pennsylvania
The 2017 MVR Access and Decoder Digest
Also, the DOT offers another, unique, online service to driving records
via online messengers. Located throughout the state, these messengers
provide online access and processing for a variety of customer DOT
needs. Additional fees apply. Visit the web page to find locations for
over 200 approved messengers.
Bulk – PennDot does not offer its driver license file for sale to
commercial vendors or users.
By Person of Record – PA drivers may obtain their driving record
by mail or walk-in as described above or may purchase online at
https://apps.pa.egov.com/idr. The driver must provide the DL or Photo
ID number, the DOB and last four digits of the SSN. The fee is $9.00 for
either the three-year record or ten-year CDL record. This record will not
indicate the number of points associated with each conviction.
Notification/Monitoring Program
Although the DOT does not offer a monitoring system or notification
program to employers or insurance companies, account holders who
employ commercial drivers or school bus drivers can apply for
unlimited electronic access to driver records. The $200.00 account fee
mentioned must be paid and there is a $9.00 charge per driver. A form
must be completed on an annual basis in order to maintain this service.
Accident Reports
Reporting – The police should be contacted immediately when there
is an accident involving death, personal injury, or when a vehicle must
be towed from the scene of the accident—regardless of the dollar
amount of damage. If the police cannot be contacted, an “Operator's
Report” must be filed within five days. Reports should be filed with
Bureau of Highway Safety and Traffic Engineering, PO Box 2047,
Harrisburg, PA 17105-2047. Commercial carriers with operating
authority of the Public Utilities Commission must file a report (with that
agency) on any accident resulting in death, injury, or property damage in
excess of $100.00. Fatal accidents must be reported within twenty-four
hours; accidents involving injury should also be reported within twentyfour hours; and written reports should be filed for all accidents within
thirty days.
Drivers of motor carrier vehicles, buses, school buses or vehicles
transporting hazardous materials if involved in a reportable accident
must submit to testing for alcohol and controlled substances. The cost is
borne by the driver's employer.
Record Access – State Police Headquarters, Crash Reports Unit,
1800 Elmerton Avenue, Harrisburg, PA 17110, 717-783-5516, fax is
717-705-6368. www.psp.pa.gov/Pages/default.aspx. Copies of accident
reports within last five years can be obtained. It takes an average of 15
days before new records are ready for inquiry.
Records are not public. Per Section 3751(b) of the Vehicle Code, only
those involved or attorney or insurer may request a copy. The agency
will not do a name search; requester must have the Incident Number.
Reports are $22.00; prepayment is required. Requesters must include
drivers’' names, the date of incident, and the incident number. The form
can
be
downloaded
at
www.psp.pa.gov/Documents/Public
Documents/SP 7-0015 (4-2014).pdf. Turnaround time on mail requests
is usually 3 weeks. Reports can be returned by email, if so requested.
Access to Vehicle-Related Records
General Information and Fees
In-Person or Mail – Requests must be submitted using Form DL-135
Vehicle Record Services, Department of Transportation, 1101 South
Front St, PO Box 68691, Harrisburg, PA 17106-8691, 717-391-6190, instate 800-932-4600. Records are kept on all vehicles and unattached
mobile homes. The following information is available for a fee of $9.00
per report:
Title History: A copy of the title transaction documents is provided.
Odometer: A copy of the title/renewal transaction is provided.
Basic: Includes name, address, title number, tag, VIN, make and
expiration date of tag.
Encumbrance: Includes basic information listed above plus the lienholder's name and address and expiration date.
Insurance: A copy of the title/renewal transaction is provided.
Add $23.00 for certification. Note that encumbrance or lien information
is not considered public information and is only available per DPPA
guidelines.
(downloadable from web site). Walk-in requesters may order records,
but the results will be mailed.
Complete State Form DL-135 which requires the notarized signature of
the requester and non-notarized signature of the subject. The form is at
www.dot.state.pa.us/Public/DVSPubsForms/BMV/BMV%20Forms/dl135.pdf
Electronic – Online inquiry is not available at this time.
Bulk – The state will sell some vehicle information depending on
intended use. A written request to the address above is required for
consideration. Certain statistical type user requests (i.e. vehicle recall)
will be honored.
Snowmobiles and ATVs – PennDOT does not register
snowmobiles or ATVs. Contact the Department of Conservation and
Natural Resources, (www.dcnr.state.pa.us) at 717-783-1364
Access to Vessel-Related Records
General Information, Access and Fees
Fish and Boat Commission, Division of Licensing & Registration, PO
Box 68900, Harrisburg, PA 17106-8900, 717-705-7940, fax is 717-7057931, www.fishandboat.com.
Any boat powered by a gasoline, diesel or electric motor, including
sailboats with auxiliary power, must be registered. Boats must be titled
if with inboard motor or outboard motor and 14 ft or longer and has a
manufacture year of 1997 or newer. The agency follows the FCRA
regarding the release of boat registration and ownership information.
Liens are filed here for $5.00 per lien. As of 1998, this agency issues
certificates of title. Search requests must be in writing and require
signature of requester, reason for request, as much information about the
boat or owner as possible. It can take as along as one month before new
records are ready for inquiry.
The Request Boat Title or Security Interest Information form is found at
http://www.fishandboat.com/Transact/Forms/BoatRegForms/Documents
/pfbc_t9.pdf. There is a $5.00 fee for either current ownership
information or lien information. The charge for a title history report is
$5.00 for each owner shown on the record chain. Credit cards are
accepted.
The
form
does
not
requite
notarization.
Driving Record Content and Reciprocity
What’s On or Not On the Driving Record
• The driver's address is part of the record, the SSN is not released.
• Any violation resulting in points being assessed against the record or
a suspension/revocation of driving privileges is processed against the
driver's record.
• Accidents are reported on the driving record as involvement only.
• The length of time convictions are shown on a driving record is
The 2017 MVR Access and Decoder Digest
Pennsylvania
611
shall promptly enter information on the records of the persons involved.
Typically, a conviction will be placed on a record within 15 days of
receipt via paper and the next day electronically.
dependent on the type of record ordered, as explained above.
• A record ordered online by the driver will not show points.
CDL Medical Cert Data
Medical Cert Information on CDL drivers is provided on both the
manually processed and electronic version of the CDL driving record.
Data Retention
CDL driver records are purged based on the timetable per federal
regulations (see the Appendix) and all drivers according to Departmental
regulations or statutes; including surrendered licenses.
Court to Repository
Convictions and failure to respond to citations are transferred
electronically or via paper. Major violations (i.e., misdemeanors and
felonies) are required by law to be mailed within 10 days of final
judgment of conviction. The law further mandates that the Department
State Reciprocity for Non-CDL Drivers
• Will suspend license of driver for unpaid out-of-state convictions, if
NRVC member.
• Record of new incoming driver is not shown on MVR.
• Out-of-state convictions are shown on MVR only if major with
suspension action.
• Out-of-state accidents are not shown on MVR.
• Convictions of out-of-state drivers are sent to home state.
• Record is forwarded to new state upon surrender of license when
requested.
License Classes, Restrictions, and Endorsements
License Classes– Commercial
Pennsylvania began issuing the CDL in November 1990.
Class A
Minimum age 18, required to operate any combination of vehicles with a GVW rating of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the
vehicle being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds; also includes Classes B and C.
Class B
Minimum age 18, required to operate any single vehicle with GVW rating of 26,001 pounds or more, or any such vehicle towing a
vehicle not in excess of 10,000 pounds; also includes Class C.
Class C
Minimum age 18, required to operate any single vehicle with a GVW rating of not more than 26,000 pounds that is designed to
transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver; or is a school bus designed to carry 11 passengers or more, including driver;
or is used to transport hazardous materials.
License Classes– Non-Commercial
Class A
Class B
Class C
Class M
Minimum age 18, required to operate any combination of vehicles with a gross weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, where the
vehicle(s) being towed is/are in excess of 10,000 pounds. Example: Recreational Vehicle, when the towing vehicle is rated at
11,000 pounds and the vehicle towed is rated at 15,500 pounds (total combination weight of 26,500 pounds).
Minimum age 18, required to operate any single vehicle rated in excess of 26,000 pounds. Example: Motor homes rated at 26,001
pounds or more.
Issued to persons 16 years of age or older to operate any vehicles, except those requiring a Class M qualification, and who do not
meet the definitions of Class A or Class B. Any firefighter or member of a rescue or emergency squad who is the holder of a Class
C driver's license and who has a certificate of authorization from a fire chief or head of the rescue or emergency squad will be
authorized to operate any fire or emergency vehicle registered to that fire department, rescue or emergency squad or municipality.
The holder of a Class C driver's license is also authorized to drive a motorized pedalcycle (a motor-driven cycle) or a three-wheeled
motorcycle equipped with an enclosed cab, but not a motorcycle.
Issued to those persons 16 years of age or older to operate a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle. If a person is qualified to operate
only a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle, he/she will be issued a Class M driver's license. If motorcycle is less than 50 CCs, an "8"
restriction will appear on the driver's license and the license holder is prohibited from operating a motorcycle 50 CCs or larger.
Other License Types
•
Occupational Limited License (OLL) for non-commercial classes. An OLL authorizes one to drive a designated motor vehicle, under certain
conditions, when it is necessary for the driver's occupation, work, trade, medical treatment or study.
• Probationary Licenses for Class C only. Both limited licenses need an authorization letter that contains specific information pertaining to the
operator, such as; vehicle information, operating hours, and destination. Both products must be carried together at all times.
• An Ignition Interlock License is issued to those individuals restricted to only driving vehicles with an ignition interlock device.
Restrictions
B
C
D
E
G
H
I
J
K
Note:
Equip with Hand Emergency Brake
L
Must Wear Corrective Lenses
Classified Driver (see record)
N
Gear Shift on Steering Column
Hand Dimmer-Switch and/or Throttle
O
Special Hand-Control Equipment
Equip With Outside Mirror
P
Special Left- or Right-Side Gas Pedal
Extension on Gas and/or Brake Pedal
S
Equip With Automatic-Type Shift
All Hand Controls
V
Restricted Motorcycle
Equip With Power Brake and/or Power Steering
X
See Endorsement Card
Special Foot-Control Equipment
Z
Daylight Driving Only
Knob on Steering Wheel
If an "8" restriction appears on the driver's license, the licensee is prohibited from operating a motorcycle 50 CCs or larger.
If an “9” restriction appears on the driver’s license, the licensee may only operated a 3-wheeled motor cycle.
Additional Restrictions - Applicable Only to Commercial Licensing
* =
** =
Indicates No Longer Issued as of December 21, 2015
Indicates New as of December 21, 2015
612 Pennsylvania
A
The 2017 MVR Access and Decoder Digest
**N
Restricts the driver to only drive within an exempt intracity
zone (49 CFR § 391.62).
Passenger endorsement restriction – cannot drive Class A
buses.
Passenger endorsement restriction – cannot drive Cass A or
B buses.
Prohibits driving a CMV equipped with a manual
transmission
Indicates the driver is qualified medically by operation of
49 CFR § 391.64.
Intrastate driving only
Restricts the driver to vehicles not equipped with air
brakes.
Prohibits driving a Class A passenger vehicle (formerly the
B restriction)
Prohibits driving a Class A or B passenger vehicle
H
N
P
Hazardous Materials
Tank Vehicles
Passengers
*B
*C
E
G
**K
L
**M
**O
**P
Q
V
**X
Y
**Z
(formerly the C restriction)
Prohibits a Calls A drover form driving a motor vehcile
truck tractor-trailer combination
Prohibits driving a CMV bus containing passengers (for
CLP only)
Requires the driver to wear corrective lenses while driving
a commercial motor vehicle.
Indicates the driver is qualified and has been issued a
medical variance. (Medical variance documentation must
be carried at all times when operating a commercial motor
vehicle.)
Prohibits tank vehicles from carrying cargo (for CLP only)
Requires the driver to wear a hearing aid(s) while driving a
commercial motor vehicle.
Prohibits driving a CMV with full air brakes
Endorsements (CDL)
S
T
X
School Bus
Double-/Triple-Trailers for Class A Driver
Tank and Hazardous Materials
Pennsylvania Record Types and Status Codes
Record Types
A2
A4
BP
B2
B4
CS
DC
FI
ID
II
IL
IO
IP
IR
JA
JB
2 YR LIC/LP/ID
4 YR LIC/LP/SB
SCHBUS/PERMIT
2YR LIC/LP
4YR LIC/LP
CHGSOR INPROG
DECEASED
FICT OPERATOR
PHOTO ID
INTERLOCK LICENSE
INTERLOCK DEVICE
INTERLOCK PA MOVED OOS
REG LP/ID
PHOTO ID REES
JR LIC/LP/ID
JR LIC/LP
AC
AD
AN
AP
AQ
AS
Appeal CDL Disq
Administrative stop
Appeal non; points
Appeal points
Acknowledge disq product recvd
Acknowledge suspension-product
received
Cancellation
Cancellation - CDL retest
Cancel probationary license
Point credit; school
Cancellation voluntary surrender
Lifetime disqualification
Deny the right to apply
Disqualification
Exam credit point exam
Exam non-point
Exam points
Federal Imminent Hazard
Hearings
Speed hearings
Pending medical exam
Military waiver
JL
JP
LB
LI
LL
LM
LR
L2
MI
ND
NI
OB
OI
OL
OM
OS
JR LICENSE
JR PERMIT
LICENSE/SB
JR LIC/ID
OCC UM LIC
OPER/MECHANIC
LIC RE-EST
REG 2YR LIC
MILITARY
NON-DRIVER
INTERLOCK ND OOS
OUT OF ST SB
REG LIC/ID
OCCUPATIONAL LIC
OUT/STATE MEC
OUT OF STATE
PD
PI
PL
PP
PR
P2
P4
RA
RL
RP
SB
SI
SL
SR
XX
LP PD 2YR/ID
JR LP/ID
PROBATIONARY LIC
JR LP PD
LP RE-EST
LP PD 2 YRS
LP PD 4 YRS
REG LIC/LP/ID
REG LICENSE
REG LP
SCHOOL BUS
2 YR LIC/ID
SR LICENSE
SCH BUS RE-ES
INTERLOCK OLL
RC
RE
RI
RO
RP
Recall
Revocation
Recall Ignition Interlock
Recall OLL
Rest pend med/dual cont learner's
permit
Restr removal (vision and equip)
Re-exam
Suspension
Pending underage lifetime
disqualification
Pending underage drinking
suspension
Unclaimed
Pending underage disqualification
Pending underage suspension
Pending underage trespass
suspension
Pending underage revocation
Victim Bad Check
Hold point exam credit
Hold hearing credit
Driver Privilege Status Codes
CA
CD
CP
CS
CV
DD
DM
DQ
EC
EN
EX
FD
HE
HS
ME
MW
NE
NM
NS
OF
OG
OH
OI
OL
PA
PB
PC
PD
PE
PH
PM
PO
PP
PR
PS
PV
P3
RB
RD
No point credit; school and exam
Non renewal medical
No point credit; school
Old “F” stop
Old “G” stop
Old “H” stop
Old “I” stop
Occupational limited license
Pending OLL appeal
Pending PL appeal
Pending cancellation
Pending disqualification
Pending PE exam
Pending PL hearing
Pending medical
Pending OLL recall
Pending PL recall
Pending recall
Pending suspension
Pending revocation
Pending PL cancel
Rebuild
PL Recall
RR
RX
SU
UL
UD
UN
UQ
US
UT
UV
VB
XE
XH
The 2017 MVR Access and Decoder Digest
Pennsylvania
613
Conviction Tables with ACD, Statute, and Points
The data for Pennsylvania is presented in two tables. The first table indicates convictions that incur points and the ACD translation. The second
table shows non-point convictions that may result in a suspension. Pennsylvania MVRs indicate the state statue code for each conviction shown.
But there may not be a PA code associated with the newer ACD codes that recently went into effect. PA will report the ACD code on Commercial
Records only as defined by the Federal definition.
Conviction Table with Points
PA Code
1512
1571
3102
3111.1
3112a3i/ii
3114(a)(1)
3302
3303
3304
3305
3306(a)(1)
3306(a)(2)
3306(a)(3)
3307
3310
3321
3322
3323(b)
3323(c)
3324
3332
3341(a)
3341(b)
ACD
D29
B41
M08
M14
M16
M18
N01
M40
M42
M42
M42
M42
M42
M42
M34
N06
N31
M15
M19
N25
N55
M10
M10
3342(b),(e) M22
3344
M25
3345(a)
M75
3361
3362
3365(b)
3365(c)
3542(a)
3547
3549(a)
3702
3714(a)
3745
S94
S Series
Description
Violation of restrictions on drivers license - wearing glasses, etc.
Violation concerning license
Failure to obey policeman or authorized person
Traffic control – Hazardous condition
Failure to stop for a red light
Failure to stop for a flashing red light
Failure to yield half of roadway to oncoming vehicle
Improper passing - overtaken driver to maintain speed; passing in at safe distance
Improper passing on the right
Improper passing on the left - clear distance ahead
Improper passing on a hill
Improper passing, at a railroad crossing or intersection
Improper passing, at a bridge or tunnel
Improper passing, in a no-passing zone
Following too closely
Failure to yield to driver on the right at intersection
Failure to yield to oncoming driver when making left turn
Failure to stop for stop sign
Failure to yield at yield sign
Failure to yield when entering or crossing roadway between intersections
Improper turning around - illegal U-turns
Failure to obey signal indicating approach of train
Failure to comply with crossing gate or barrier
Failure to stop at railroad crossings
Failure to stop when entering from alley, driveway or building
Failure to stop for school bus with flashing red lights
Driving too fast for conditions
Exceeding maximum speed -- Miles over speed limit:
6 to 10
11 to 15
16 to 25
26 to 30
31 and over - Note: Also, Departmental hearing and sanctions provided under Section
1538(d ) (If violation occurs in active work zone, then 15 day suspension triggered.)
S15/92/93 Exceeding special speed limit in school zone
S15/92/93 Exceeding special speed limit for trucks on downgrades
N08
Failure to yield to pedestrian in cross-walk
N08
Failure to yield to pedestrian on sidewalk, (when entering from a driveway or alley)
N08
Failure to yield to blind pedestrians
N82
Improper backing
M81
Careless driving
B04
Leaving scene of accident involving property damage only
Points
2
3
2
2
3
3
3
3
3
3
4
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
2
4 and 30-day
suspension
4
3
5 and 60-day
suspension
2
2
3
4
5
5
3
3
2
3
3
3
3
4
614 Pennsylvania
The 2017 MVR Access and Decoder Digest
Table of Codes Appearing on Driving Records That Carry No Point Value,
But May Result in Suspensions
Note:
There are certain Pennsylvania convictions, such as 6110(a) which is exceeding the maximum speed limit on the
Pennsylvania Turnpike, that do not appear on driving records and therefore do not appear on the table below. However, these
convictions can show on driving records if unpaid as an underlying offense related to 1533(a) - Failure to Respond to a
Citation.
PA Code
13a10
ACD
A50
13a12
13a14
A33
A33
13a16
13a30
13a31
13a36
1333
1371
1501(a)
1533(a)
1533(b)
1533(d)
1535(e)
1535(e)
1538
1539
1540
1541
1542
1543
1543(a)
1543(b)
1543(b)(1.1)
A33
A33
A33
A33
B51
D45
D45
D45
B20
B20
B20
B20
1547
1547(b)(1)
1554(h)1
1606(a)
A12
A12
D27
B51
1601(a)(1)
B56
1601(a)(2)
B57
1601(a)(3)
B91
1606(c)(1)
B20
1613
1786(f)
2503
A12
D36
U08
2504
U08
2702(a)1
2706
3111
3309
3326
U03
M14
M42
M03
Description
Using a vehicle in the commission of a felony involving manufacturing, distributing or dispensing a controlled substance
(federal description - is major offense if CMV or if CDL holder)
Acquisition or obtaining of controlled substance
Using a vehicle in the commission of a felony involving manufacturing, distributing or dispensing a controlled substance
(federal description - is major offense if CMV or if CDL holder)(federal description - is major offense if CMV or if CDL
holder)
Possession of a controlled substance
Delivery of a controlled substance
Possession of marijuana
Manufacture, distribution, possession of a designer drug
Truancy
Driving while vehicle registration is suspended
Driver required to be licensed
Failure to respond (in-state)
Failure to respond (out-of-state)
Default in failure to respond
Conviction of 3361 (too fast for conditions) while in an active work zone. 15-day suspension.
Conviction of 3362 (speeding), minimum 11+ over while in an active work zone. 15-day suspension.
School, examination or hearing on accumulation of points or excessive speed
Suspension of operating privilege on accumulation of points
Surrender of license
Period of revocation or suspension of operating privilege
Revocation of habitual offender's license
Driving while operating privilege is suspended or revoked
Driving when license is withdrawn, barred, or canceled
Driving while operating privilege is suspended or revoked for a DUI violation
Driving while operating privilege is suspended or revoked for a DUI violation while under the influence of drugs or
alcohol
Refusal to submit to alcohol test, Non-CMV
Refusal - driving under suspension without ignition interlock device
Violation of limited licensee condition
Driving a CMV without obtaining a CDL or driving without a valid CDL in possession or without proper card or
endorsement (federal description - is Serious Traffic Offense for drivers operating a commercial vehicle). Repealed as of
12/24/12- but remains on record.
Driving a CMV without obtaining a CDL (federal description is Serious Traffic Offense for drivers operating a
commercial vehicle.)
Driving a CMV without a CDL in possession (federal description is Serious Traffic Offense for drivers operating a
commercial vehicle.)
Improper classification or endorsement of drivers license (federal description is Serious Traffic Offense for drivers
operating a commercial vehicle.)
Driving a CMV while the driver's CDL is revoked, suspended, cancelled or disqualified (federal description - is major
offense if CMV or if CDL holder)
Refusal to submit to alcohol test, CMV
Driving without financial responsibility
Causing a fatality through the negligent operation of a CMV (Federal description - is major offense if CMV or if CDL
holder)
Causing a fatality through the negligent operation of a CMV (Federal description - is major offense if CMV or if CDL
holder)
Vehicular assault
Terroristic threats
Traffic control
Improper lane usage - CMV only
Duty of driver in construction and maintenance areas or on highway safety corridors (federal description - is major
offense if CMV or if CDL holder, is violation of STO under PA law)
The 2017 MVR Access and Decoder Digest
PA Code
3342(a)
ACD
M22
3342(g)(1)
M20
3342(g)(2)
M21
3342(h)(1)
M23
3342(h)(2)
M24
3342(i)
M10
3367
3714(b)
3714(c)
3731
3732
3733
3734
3735
3735.1
3736
3742
3742.1
3743
3745
3802(a)(1)
3802(a(2)
3802(b)
3802(c)
3802(d)
3802(e)
3802(f)(i)
3802(f)(ii)
3808(a)
3808(b)
3921
3925
3928
4355
6307
6308
6310.3
7102(b)
7103(b)
7111
7121
7122
7514(a)
S95
U31
A20
U07
U01
U01
U07
U06
M84
B03
B03
B01
B04
A21
A08
A10
A11
A22
A60
A21
A04
A41
A41
U26
U03
U04
D51
D06
A31
D16
A41
Pennsylvania
615
Description
Vehicles required to stop at railroad crossings (federal description is a railroad crossing offense for drivers operating a
commercial vehicle.)
For drivers who are not required to always stop, failure to slow down at a railroad –highway grade crossing and check
that tracks are clear of approaching train (federal description is a railroad crossing offense for drivers operating a
commercial vehicle.)
For drivers who are not required to always stop failure to stop before reaching tracks at a railroad-highway grade
crossing when the tracks are not clear. (federal description is a railroad crossing offense for drivers operating a
commercial vehicle.)
For drivers failing to have sufficient space to drive completely through the railroad-highway grade crossing without
stopping. (federal description is a railroad crossing offense for drivers operating a commercial vehicle.)
For drivers failing to negotiate a railroad-highway grade crossing because of insufficient undercarriage clearance.
(federal description is a railroad crossing offense for drivers operating a commercial vehicle.)
For drivers failure to obey a traffic control device or the directions of an enforcement official at a railroad-highway
grade crossing.(federal description is a railroad crossing offense for drivers operating a commercial vehicle.)
Racing on highways
Careless driving causing unintentional death - 6-month suspension
Careless driving causing bodily injury - 90-day suspension
Driving under the influence of alcohol or controlled substance
Homicide by vehicle
Fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer
Driving without lights to avoid identification or arrest
Homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence
Aggravated assault by vehicle while driving under the influence
Reckless driving
Accidents involving death or personal injury
Accidents involving death or personal injury while not properly licensed
Accidents involving damage to attended vehicle or property
Leaving the scene of an accident (federal description - is major offense if CMV or if CDL holder)
Driving under the influence of alcohol (general impairment)
Driving under the influence of alcohol (general impairment) w/BAC
Driving under the influence of alcohol (.10% < .16%)
Driving under the influence of alcohol (.16% or >)
Driving under the influence of a controlled substance
Driving under the influence of alcohol (minor with a BAC of .02% or >)
Driving under the influence of alcohol (commercial driver with a BAC of .04% or >)
Driving under the influence of alcohol (school bus or school vehicle with a BAC of .02% or >)
Driving without ignition interlock
Tampering with ignition interlock
Vehicle theft
Receiving or disposing of stolen vehicle or its parts
Illegal operation of an emergency vehicle
Child Enforcement
Misrepresentation of age to secure liquor or malt or brewed beverages
Purchase, consumption, possession or transportation of liquor or malt or brewed beverages
Carrying a false identification card
(Repealed, driver can remove from record) Removal or falsification of identification number
(Repealed, driver can remove from record) Dealing in vehicles with removed or falsified numbers
Dealing in titles and plates for stolen vehicles
False application for certificate of title or registration
Altered, forged or counterfeit documents and plates
(Repealed, but stays on record) Violation of Ignition Interlock
About the Point System
Points range from two to five. When an accumulation of six points occurs for the first time, the driver will receive written notice to take a special
point examination. If the record reduces below six points and then reaches six or more points a second or subsequent time, suspensions, and more
testing will occur. Accumulation of 11 or more points in one year will result in a suspension. Points recorded against any person are removed at
the rate of three points for each 12 consecutive months (using the violation date) in which such person has not committed any violation which
results in the assignment of points or in suspension or revocation.
Note: As of 2012, motorists who drive around or through signs or traffic control devices closing a road or highway due to hazardous conditions
will have two points added to their driving records and be fined up to $250.
616 Pennsylvania
The 2017 MVR Access and Decoder Digest
About the ARD Program
Some PA driving records with a DUI violation may include this description: "ARD-DUI GEN IMPAIRMENT." ARD, which stands for
Accelerated Rehabilitation Program, is a pre-adjudication program that eliminates a criminal violation in the court system. The offender must meet
certain criteria such as providing community service or taking a class. The DUI will show on the driving record for non-commercial drivers for 10
years, for commercial drivers it is not eliminated.
Enforcement Agreements
The Secretary may enter into agreements relating to enforcement of this title, including, but not limited to:
1. The Driver License Compact and any other agreements to notify any state of violations incurred by residents of that state;
2. Agreements to suspend or revoke the operating privilege of Pennsylvania licensed drivers who are convicted of any offense essentially
similar to 1532(a) and (b) (relating to revocation or suspension of operating privilege);
3. Agreements to disqualify the commercial driving privilege of Pennsylvania drivers convicted in Federal court or in another state of
offenses essentially similar to those resulting in disqualification under section 1611 (relating to disqualification);
4. Agreements to establish procedures for the seizure of suspended, revoked or disqualified drivers' licenses of residents of other states; and
5. Agreements to take measures to assure taking of chemical tests of breath, blood or urine and payment of fines or attendance at hearings
by persons charged with these or other violations (May 30, 1990, P.L. 173, No. 42, effective November 1, 1990).