Driver licensing

Commercial Licenses (CDL)

If you have a regular driver’s license in Pennsylvania and want to get a CDL, you need to apply for a permit first.

Notes

On June 23, 2025,  PennDOT implemented provisions of the Medical Examiner's Certification Integration final rule (86 FR 32643, June 22, 2021).  These mandated provisions require electronic transmission of Medical Examiner's Certification examination results and restriction information for commercial learner’s permit (CLP) or commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders from the National Registry directly to PennDOT.  In addition, FMCSA will electronically transmit medical variance information for all commercial motor vehicle drivers directly to PennDOT.  Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) information is only accepted electronically from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s National Registry. PennDOT no longer accepts MECs in person or via email. If you have concerns about the status of your current MEC, please contact your Medical Examiner.  For additional information, visit https://nationalregistry.fmcsa.dot.gov/nriilearning-center

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.

Services for Military Personnel and Veterans

Explore our CDL-related services for military personnel and veterans.

Learn More About Testing and Regulations

CDL Skills Test & Act 49 CLD Changes

The CDL Skills Test assesses a driver's skill in a variety of driving maneuvers.

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​Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT)

New drivers must complete Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) when getting their CDL or a new endorsement for the first time.

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Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse (DACH)

FMCSA's Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse is a secure online system that helps monitor commercial drivers for drug and alcohol violations.

Read more

Modernized Commercial Driver License (CDL) Skills Testing

PennDOT has implemented a new (CDL) skills test at all PennDOT Driver License Centers that offer CDL skills tests and at all third-party CDL driving skill testers.

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Medical Examiner’s Certificate Integration FMCSA Final Rule (MEC NRII)

PennDOT has implemented mandated changes regarding electronically submitted Medical Examiner’s Certificates (MECs).

Read more