pennsylvania drivers permit - PA

An initial Learner's Permit is issued to any individual, 16 years of age or older, who has never been licensed to operate a vehicle, a new resident who has never been licensed, or a new resident who has been licensed in another state but whose driver's license has been expired longer than 6 months. If you are a new resident to PA, please visit our New Resident information page.

Process:

Step 1:

Acquire a Pennsylvania Driver's Manual from a local Driver License Center, or on this website.

Step 2:

Have a physician, physician assistant, certified registered nurse practitioner or chiropractor conduct a physical examination and complete Form DL-180 "Medical Qualification Certificate."

Step 3:

Visit a Driver License Center with:

• The completed DL-180
• The completed DL-180TD (if under the age 18). This form must be completed by a parent, guardian, or spouse who is 18 years of age or older.
• Proof of identity (See below), which is listed on reverse side of DL-180. Note: If you are changing your name, you must present original documents supporting name changes such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree or court order.
• Two acceptable proofs of residency (See below), listed on reverse side of DL-180, if you are 18 years of age or older. Proof of residency is not required if you are age 16 or 17.
• Your Social Security card.
• A check or money order payable to PennDOT for the appropriate fee. (Cash is not accepted.)

Step 4:

An eye screening and Knowledge Test will be given. Once passed, a Learner's Permit will be issued. The Learner's Permit will be valid for one year. If you are under age 18, a six-month waiting period and 50 hours behind the wheel driving experience is required prior to taking the skills test.

Step 5:

Schedule a road test either online or by calling 1-800-423-5542.

When visiting a Driver License Center to take your road test, please be sure to bring the following items with you:

• Your valid learner’s permit
• Parent or Guardian Certification Form DL-180C, if applicant is under 18 years of age
• Proof of vehicle insurance
• Proof of vehicle registration
• Accompanying driver’s valid driver’s license

PennDOT uses state-of-the-art facial recognition technology when an individual has their photo taken for their driver’s license/identification card renewal.