Pennsylvania
CDL Learner Permit Training
If you are not a resident of PENNSYLVANIA please
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You must obtain and maintain your CDL in your state of residence. This is normally the state where your regular driver\'s license was issued. If you plan on moving soon, you may want to choose your new state of residence.
How To Get Your Pennsylvania CDL
Procedures, requirements, fees, locations, etc. to get your Pennsylvania CDL. Fast - Efficient.
How to obtain a Pennsylvania Commercial Driver's License
Getting Started
Getting a Pennsylvania CDL involves several steps. There are medical requirements and residency
requirements besides knowledge and skills requirements.
- The first step is to get a free copy of the Pennsylvania CDL Manual - PA CDL Handbook. The manual is available in their field locations, downloaded from their website and printed. Each state has its own processes to getting your Pennsylvania CDL.
- The second step is to decide which type of vehicle and what kind of driving you want to get the license for.
- There are 3 classes of Pennsylvania CDLs with endorsements for specialized qualifications for vehicles like school buses, tank trucks, tractor trailers, etc. Each types of Pennsylvania CDL and endorsement requires you pass a skills test and in some cases a written test. It is important to make sure you pass all the required tests or risk having restrictions on your license.
Step 1: Get the Pennsylvania Commercial Learners Permit (PA CLP)
A Pennsylvania Commercial Learners Permit (PA CLP) is a permit that only
authorizes you to practice on public roads with a qualified Pennsylvania CDL holder
sitting next to you. Getting the permit involves more than just passing all
the knowledge tests for the type of driving you want to do. To make sure that
you are eligible your driving record is checked for the last 10 years in all
50 states and the District of Columbia. You need to bring in the proof that
your state accepts to show that you are medically qualified. Most types of
commercial driving require a DOT medical card, requiring a DOT physical. Your
state may require specific documents it wants to see to prove your name and
proof of residency. There are fees for getting the Pennsylvania CLP. Reading and following
the instructions found in your specific Pennsylvania CDL Information will streamline the process.
Step 2: Get the Pennsylvania Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
You are required to possess the Pennsylvania CLP for 14 days before taking the Skills Test.
Some states require the successful completion of Pennsylvania CDL training prior to
testing. Regardless, it is highly recommended that you practice the inspection
tests and maneuvers in the Pennsylvania CDL Manual that you will be tested on with a
qualified individual before showing up for the test. You must pass all 3 parts
of the Skills Test: the Vehicle Inspection Test, the Basic Controls Test,
and the Road Test. Your state may even allow you to use their "training aid"
to help you remember items on the vehicle inspection checklist. Taking the
Skills test is no guarantee that you will pass.
Once you have passed the Skills Test you need to take the documentation to the
counter for processing. Some states will give you the Pennsylvania CDL that same day,
while others send it to you in the mail. Regardless make sure that everything
is correct before you leave the counter. It can be costly and embarrassing
if you find a mistake later.
Checklist . . .
- Possess current valid regular driver's license in Pennsylvania.
- Show proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, payroll check stub, W-2 Form).
- For interstate driving, submit proof of DOT Medical Certificate. For intrastate driving, complete an application which includes a statement certifying that you meet medical and driver qualifications. If you have had any change in your physical condition since your last driver license renewal which may affect your ability to drive, you may need a special form from the branch office for your physician to fill out before you can apply for your license.
- Meet driver record eligibility requirements as determined by your Pennsylvania DMV office personnel.
- Pass the required knowledge and vision tests. You must pass all required knowledge tests to obtain a Pennsylvania CDL Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP). This allows you to practice driving under supervision of a driver who has a CDL for the type of vehicle you wish to drive. A Pennsylvania CDL Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP) is also required for taking the PA CDL skills tests. If you do not pass a knowledge test on your first attempt, you must wait one day to retake the test. There is a one-day wait period for any subsequent retest.
- Pay your Pennsylvania CDL fees.
- Schedule your Pennsylvania CDL skills test.
- Upon successfully passing your Skills Tests, return to the Pennsylvania DMV office.
- Receive your Pennsylvania CDL.
"Well worth the price. Saved me a lot of time. I passed all of my tests the first time. I will recommend it to others." - C.M., Macon, GA
"Just want to thank you for the help. Upgraded my Class B to a Class A CDL. I liked all the options including audio, video, quizzes and all. I'll recommend it to others." - H.L., Houston, TX
"Because of test anxiety, I procrastinated until I only had three days left before I needed my CDL permit before purchasing from you. I am holding my CDL permit. I wish I found your web site sooner. Thanks!" - R.K., Hamilton, OH