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How to Get Your Pennsylvania CDL License

The actual step-by-step process, from application to full license — not just what's on the exam. Confirm anything time-sensitive (fees, forms) with PennDOT directly.

  1. Hold a valid Pennsylvania noncommercial license

    New drivers need a noncommercial Pennsylvania driver's license before applying for a commercial learner's permit. You must be at least 18 to drive commercially within Pennsylvania, or 21 to cross state lines, under federal rules that apply nationwide.

  2. Submit your CLP application and self-certification

    Complete a Commercial Learner's Permit Application (DL-31CD) and a Self-Certification Form (DL-11CD), and pay the required fees. If you'll be driving "non-excepted" commercial vehicles, you'll also need a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate before a permit can be issued.

    • Commercial Learner's Permit Application (DL-31CD)
    • Self-Certification Form (DL-11CD)
    • Medical Examiner's Certificate (if non-excepted)

  3. Receive your Knowledge Test Authorization (KTA) and pass the knowledge test

    PennDOT issues a Knowledge Test Authorization listing the CDL classes, endorsements, and restriction removals you're testing for. Bring it to a Driver License Center to take the knowledge test — the actual CDL learner's permit isn't issued until after you pass.

    • Knowledge Test Authorization (KTA)

  4. Complete entry-level driver training (ELDT)

    Federal rule requires training through a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before you can take the CDL skills test, for your first CDL, an endorsement upgrade, or a vehicle-class upgrade.

  5. Hold the CLP at least 15 days

    Pennsylvania requires a minimum wait of 15 days between the date your CLP is issued and your scheduled Class A, B, or C skills test — slightly longer than the 14-day federal minimum. The CLP itself is valid for 180 days.

  6. Complete behind-the-wheel ELDT training

    Alongside the theory portion, federal rule requires documented behind-the-wheel training hours and proficiency assessments from your ELDT provider before the skills test.

  7. Pass the CDL skills test

    Administered at a PennDOT-authorized location: a pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control maneuvers, and an on-road driving evaluation.

  8. Receive your CDL

    Once you pass, PennDOT issues your Class A, B, or C commercial driver's license, with any endorsements (such as passenger, school bus, or hazardous materials) reflecting the additional tests you passed.

Notes

  • Pennsylvania's 15-day CLP holding period is slightly longer than the 14-day federal minimum used by most other states.
  • Endorsements like passenger (P), school bus (S), or hazardous materials (H) require their own knowledge tests, and for P/S/H, their own ELDT curriculum, in addition to the general knowledge test.
  • Exact fees and required documents change over time — confirm the current process on the official PennDOT website before your appointment.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-14