A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required in Pennsylvania to operate commercial motor vehicles over 26,000 lbs GVWR, buses carrying 16 or more passengers, or vehicles placarded for hazardous materials. Pennsylvania CDL fees start at $90 for a 4-year license. Three CDL classes are available: Class A for tractor-trailer combinations, Class B for single large vehicles, and Class C for passenger and HazMat vehicles. First-time applicants must complete Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) through an FMCSA-registered provider before taking the skills test. All interstate CDL holders must maintain a valid DOT Medical Certificate. Test your knowledge with the Pennsylvania CDL knowledge test, then pass the skills test — pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and road driving — to earn your license.
Any combination of vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 lbs or more, provided the GVWR of the towed vehicle exceeds 10,000 lbs.
Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 lbs or more, or any such vehicle towing a vehicle with a GVWR not exceeding 10,000 lbs.
Any single vehicle or combination not covered by Class A or B, designed to transport 16 or more passengers including the driver, or required to be placarded for hazardous materials.
TSA security threat assessment required. Valid 5 years.
Required for bulk liquid or gas tank vehicles.
Required for vehicles designed for 16+ passengers including driver.
Requires P endorsement. Pennsylvania requires Act 34 and Act 151 background clearances.
Class A CDL required.
TSA background check required.
ELDT required per 49 CFR Part 380 for first-time Class A or B applicants and H, P, S endorsement upgrades. Must use an FMCSA-registered provider at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov.
Find a registered ELDT provider in Pennsylvania →Interstate CDL holders must maintain a valid DOT Medical Examiner's Certificate from an FMCSA-certified examiner, valid up to 24 months. Submit self-certification and MEC copy to PennDOT. Pennsylvania intrastate CDL drivers must meet PennDOT's intrastate medical standard.
Find an FMCSA-certified medical examiner →Apply at a PennDOT Driver License Center with proof of identity, Social Security Number, and Pennsylvania residency. Pass the applicable knowledge tests, complete ELDT training through an FMCSA-registered provider, then pass the skills test. CDL fee is approximately $90 for 4 years.
Pennsylvania has a reputation for strict weight enforcement. State Police and PennDOT weigh stations actively check axle and gross weights. Overweight fines in Pennsylvania can be substantial — ensure your load is within legal limits before entering the state.
Yes. The Pennsylvania Turnpike has commercial vehicle restrictions including height limits (13'6" maximum under overhead structures in some sections), weight limits, and designated truck routes. Check the PA Turnpike website or call their commercial vehicle hotline for current restrictions.
Pennsylvania CDLs are valid for 4 years. DOT Medical Certificates must be renewed separately, typically every 24 months for most interstate drivers.
Pennsylvania provides a farm vehicle exemption for certain agricultural operations. Operators of farm vehicles transporting agricultural products, machinery, or supplies within 150 air miles of the farm may qualify for an intrastate CDL exemption. Contact PennDOT for current exemption criteria.
Browse commercial trucks for sale from dealers in Pennsylvania on TruckRadar.
Pennsylvania CDL fee is approximately $90 for a 4-year license. Knowledge test fee included. Skills test fees vary by provider. Verify current amounts at dmv.pa.gov.
Disclaimer
The information on this page is compiled from publicly available government sources and is provided for general informational purposes only. TruckRadar is an independent search engine — we are not affiliated with any government agency and this content does not constitute legal or compliance advice. Regulations change frequently; always verify current requirements directly with the official source before making compliance decisions.
Official source: Pennsylvania PA Official DMVLast reviewed: April 8, 2026