The PA CDL license test, step by step

How do you take the PA CDL license test?

1. Hold a regular Pennsylvania driver's license.
2. Send in the DL-31CD and the DL-11CD self-certification with the fee. If you'll drive in non-excepted transportation, you also need a Medical Examiner's Certificate, which PennDOT now accepts only electronically from the FMCSA National Registry.
3. Get your KTA. It's not a permit, so you can't practice driving on it.
4. Pass each knowledge test at a Driver License Center. You can test the same day the KTA arrives, but CDL knowledge tests must start before 2 p.m.
5. Finish Entry Level Driver Training if it applies to you, wait at least 15 days and take the skills test.

Limits and time frames

• The KTA lasts one year and gives you three tries at each knowledge test.
• You get three tries at the skills test on each permit.
• Passed tests stay valid for one year. If your permit runs out, reapply with the DL-31CD and retest.

Entry Level Driver Training

Since February 7, 2022, first-time Class A or B applicants, people upgrading to A or B, and first-time passenger, school bus or hazmat endorsement applicants must complete ELDT with a provider on the federal Training Provider Registry.

Study materials

The Pennsylvania Commercial Driver's Manual (PUB 223) covers the CDL knowledge tests. PennDOT's pages don't list its own CDL practice test.