Pennsylvania CDL Requirements
Please note that your state and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regularly update these CDL requirements. Please visit the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Department of Transportation website and the FMCSA website for the most authoritative and up-to-date information regarding CDL requirements and processes.
Updates from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT):
On August 5, 2024, PennDOT began to use the FMCSA’s Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse, a secure online system that helps monitor commercial drivers for drug and alcohol violations. You can learn more on our Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse page.
On August 28, 2023, PennDOT introduced a new CDL Skills Test for all CDL applicants. For details, visit our Modernized Commercial Driver License Skills Testing page.
To apply for a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or commercial learner’s permit (CLP) in the state of Pennsylvania, you will be required to provide original identity and residency documentation. Acceptable identity documents include one of the following:
Acceptable Proof of Legal Presence
- U.S.-issued birth certificate with a raised seal
- Valid U.S. passport
- Current naturalization or immigration document
Acceptable residency documents include:
Acceptable Proof of Residency Documents
- Tax records
- Lease agreements
- Mortgage documents
- W-2 form
- Current weapons permit
- Current utility bills
- Your renewal notice or current license
Please note that if you are not currently a licensed driver or if you have had a driver’s license suspended or revoked in any state, you are not eligible to apply for a commercial driver’s license.
When the required documents have been provided and verified, you will be eligible to take the knowledge tests and apply for your commercial learner’s permit (CLP). A CLP is the first step toward receiving your CDL, and it is required for every applicant to hold a CLP for at least 14 days, but no longer than 180 days, before taking the road skills test. The type of tests you take will depend on which type of CDL (Class A, B, or C) you are seeking.
When you have passed your knowledge tests and held your CLP for at least 14 days, you will be eligible to take the skills tests to obtain your CDL. You must make an appointment with your local DMV office, bring the type of vehicle you intend to drive commercially, and take a skills test that covers pre-trip inspection, off-the-road maneuvers, and vehicle parking.
Remember, the most important thing to remember when you receive a ticket is that you should never just pay the ticket or the court fees without first talking to a legal representative who understands trucking laws. While you want to maintain a clean driving record, unforeseen violations can happen. When they do, you need expert legal protection. Drivers Legal Plan, the Nation's Leading CDL Defense Law Firm, is ready to defend your rights and your career.