Pennsylvania CDL
A Pennsylvania CDL is important if you are thinking about getting a career in truck driving. Without a commercial driver’s license, you will not be allowed to work as a truck driver. The US government had issued several new regulations with regards to acquiring a license and this includes providing a self-certification for the type of truck driving that you will be performing as well as renewing your medical certification every two years. You will also need to undergo a criminal background check if you want to get hazardous materials endorsement for your license.
To get a Pennsylvania CDL, you must at least be 18 or 21 years old first. The state of Pennsylvania requires its residents to be at least 18 years old to apply for an intrastate license and 21 years old if you want to get an interstate license. This applies to the various truck driving license classes which are offered by the state as well. If it is your first time to apply you must first study the Pennsylvania CDL Manual which is available in any local driver licensing office. You can also download it directly from their website.
The manual contains all of the necessary information that you need to learn about truck driving. In it you will learn about truck parts and maintenance, road signs and rules, as well as the road test which will eventually lead to your CDL. Once you have mastered the manual, you may then proceed to the licensing office and request for an application form. Fill out the application form and submit the following documents as well: your current driver’s license, valid ID such as a passport or birth certificate, proof of residence, your Social Security card, and any pertinent documents regarding your name or name change. You will also have to pay a fee for the application and for the written test as well.
Before you take the written exam, you will be required to undergo a visual and medical exam. You should have a visual acuity of 20/40 and a visual range of 140 degrees on both eyes. You must also pass a DOT accredited medical certification before you can take the test. The written test will be given to you and if you pass it, you will be given a learner’s permit which is valid for a few months. During the validity of your permit, you will be allowed to drive the type of truck that you have applied for provided that you are accompanied by a licensed individual. Make sure that you learn everything that you can about actual truck driving during this period in order to successfully pass the road test.
Once you think that you are ready, you may schedule for the road test which covers three particular areas – a pre-trip inspection, basic driving skills, and road test. You must pass all of these areas well in order to you to get a Pennsylvania CDL. It will be valid for at least 4 years and you will have to renew your medical certification every two years.
Visit this page for further details about truck driving schools in PA. Training can help you build confidence behind the wheel and become prepared to pass the the license exams. In addition many training facilities will help you receive job assistance after you have become licensed to drive semi trucks. You can click the link to the CDL driver’s manual below to learn about the latest requirements to become licensed to drive.
Pennsylvania Department Of Transportation
1101 South Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17104
Website: Driver and Vehicle Services
PA Commercial Driver’s License Manual
In-State Phone: 1-800-932-4600
Out-of-State Phone: 1-717-412-5300