The present invention provides PEGylated aspartyl-tRNA synthetase (DRS) polypeptides, compositions comprising the same, and methods of using such polypeptides and compositions for treating or diagnosing a variety of conditions. The PEGylated DRS polypeptides of the invention have improved controlled release properties, stability, half-life, and other pharmacokinetic properties compared to non-PEGylated DRS polypeptides.