Pennsylvania CDL Information
A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is one of the first steps to a great-paying career as a commercial truck driver. However, in order to drive a commercial vehicle (CMV) in Pennsylvania, you must first obtain a Pennsylvania CDL. Drivers Legal Plan, the Nation’s Leading CDL Defense Law Firm, has summarized many of the steps and requirements for obtaining your CDL in Pennsylvania.
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.
The state of Pennsylvania complies with federal regulations for commercial vehicles, requiring that drivers who want to obtain their commercial driver’s license (CDL) be at least 18 years of age. Additionally, you will be required to provide proper original identity documentation and residency documents. For a detailed explanation of requirements and testing knowledge needed for different types of commercial vehicles, refer to the Pennsylvania CDL requirements page.
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.