Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Trucking Schools

There are many things to see and do in Pennsylvania and with a truck driving career, you may be able to explore them more effectively. From Pittsburgh to Philadelphia, major cities help to propel the truck driving industry, offering you a number of opportunities to become employed as a driver.

In order to get a Commercial Driver’s License in Pennsylvania, an applicant must make a request for a Commercial Learner’s Permit and Commercial Knowledge Test Authorization. Eligibility for a permit does not require a noncommercial driver’s license or permit, but the minimum age is 18.

If the applicant is a new resident to the state and does not have a noncommercial driver’s license or has a driver’s license that expired not more than six months, visit the new resident section on the site for specific instructions. A computer is helpful because the documents are available online as PDFs. This will cut down on unnecessary trips to a Pennsylvania Driver’s License Center.

The steps below are for requesting the Commercial Learner’s Permit. First, go to a Driver’s License Center to start the process.

1. 1. Complete the DL-31CD CDL Learner’s Permit application, Self-Certification form DL-11CD, download the driver’s license manual, and calculate the required fees listed on the application.

1. 1. If applicable, bring a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license, proof of residency, and a Social Security card. The site has the complete list of acceptable documents for proof of residency and identification.

1. 1. Bring supporting documentation of a name change due to divorce, marriage, or court order.

1. 1. Bring a check made out to PennDOT for the total fee amount. The Driver’s License Centers will not accept cash.

The request for a Commercial Learner’s Permit changes the status of a noncommercial driver’s license. An applicant can receive the Knowledge Test Authorization once the process for requesting a learner’s permit is complete.

It is mandatory to pass the Knowledge Test before driving or practicing on the road. The permit is in effect for one year, and an applicant has to take and pass the Knowledge Test and road test. As an example, if an applicant takes two months to pass the Knowledge Test, then there is 10 months remaining to take and pass the road test. A permit holder passing the Knowledge Test can take the road test after 15 days.

Applicants applying for hazardous material endorsements, must complete Federal Threat Assessments and be fingerprinted at Pennsylvania State Fingerprint facilities. Additionally, a new law requires CDL drivers to comply with physical requirements and show proof of a medical examination. Information and documents are available online.