Starting a career as a commercial driver can be rewarding, but before you get behind the wheel of a big rig in Pennsylvania, there are several important steps you need to follow.
Whether you’re enrolling in a company-sponsored program, joining a private school like the CNS Driver Training Center, or pursuing out-of-state training, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from getting your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) to preparing for your CDL skills test.
1. Understand the CDL Permit and License Basics
Before you step foot in a classroom or behind the wheel, you’ll need to obtain your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).
A Class A CDL allows you to:
- Drive vehicles weighing 26,001 lbs. or more, and
- Tow trailers weighing more than 10,000 lbs.
At the CNS Driver Training Center, we specialize in helping you earn your Class A CDL, but you’ll need to secure your CDL Class A permit first in your home state.
Need help starting? Check out our CDL Permit Prep Class to get one-on-one support with studying and test prep.
2. Meet the Minimum Requirements
To start the permit process in Pennsylvania, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving (within PA)
- Be at least 21 years old for interstate driving (out-of-state driving)
- Hold a valid Class C license or a junior operator’s license for at least two years
- Pass a vision test (covered by the DOT physical if you’ve already completed one)
- Be prepared to pay additional licensing fees when upgrading to a CDL. These fees are prorated based on the number of years left on your current license.
3. Register with the FMCSA Clearinghouse
If you’re joining an independent CDL program, such as CNS Driver Training Center (outside of a company’s internal training), you’ll need to register as a “Student Driver” in the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
Why Registration Matters
- Employer Queries: Employers must check your drug and alcohol testing history before hiring.
- Consent: You must provide electronic consent for these queries.
- Designate a C/TPA: If you’re in an independent program, you must link your account to a Consortium/Third-Party Administrator (C/TPA) to manage compliance while you train, such as CNS Occupational Medicine.
- CDL Verification: Update your Clearinghouse account once your permit and eventual CDL are issued for proper record matching.
4. Gather the Required Documents
Before heading to a PennDOT Driver License Center, collect these documents:
- DL-31CD: Application for Commercial Learner’s Permit
- DL-11CD: Self-certification form (submit your medical card if required)
- Proof of Identity and Residency: Birth certificate, passport, or other approved documents
- Social Security Number
- Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT Physical) if you are driving in non-excepted commerce.
5. Study the Pennsylvania CDL Manual
Prepare for your written tests by reviewing the Pennsylvania CDL Manual, which you can download here.
The manual includes:
- General knowledge
- Combination vehicle operation
- Air brakes
- Pre-trip inspections
- Vehicle control and on-road safety
For extra preparation, use online practice tests and resources like this 60-question knowledge test video.
6. Apply for Your Knowledge Test Authorization (KTA)
With your paperwork ready:
- Submit your forms and fees to a PennDOT Driver License Center.
- You’ll receive a Knowledge Test Authorization (KTA), which allows you to take the written knowledge tests for your CDL class and endorsements.
7. Pass the Written Knowledge Tests
To earn your CLP, you must pass:
- General Knowledge Test – 70 questions
- Combination Vehicle Test
- Air Brakes Test (if driving vehicles with air brakes)
Once you pass:
- PennDOT will issue your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), valid for 180 days.
- Now you’re ready to begin behind-the-wheel training with a certified instructor.
Then the CDL school experience can begin!
8. Begin Professional CDL Training
After securing your CLP:
- Start hands-on yard and road training with your CDL instructor.
- Learn pre-trip inspections, backing and parking maneuvers, and road driving to build confidence.
- You must hold your permit for at least 15 days before scheduling your skills test.
If you’re training out-of-state:
- Take your written test and earn your CLP in your home state.
- Train in another state (like Pennsylvania) while your home-state CLP is valid.
- Take your skills test in that state (Pennsylvania).
- Your results will be transmitted to your home state’s DMV through the AAMVA CSTIMS portal, allowing you to obtain your CDL in your home state.
9. Schedule and Pass Your Skills Test
When ready, schedule your CDL skills test through PennDOT or an authorized testing site. You have three attempts per permit.
If your permit expires before you pass, you must reapply, retake the written exams, and obtain a new permit.
Key Tips for Success
- Start early — get your documents and registration completed before training starts.
- Use a prep class like our CDL Permit Prep Class for focused study help.
- Stay organized — keep your medical card, permit, and Clearinghouse info accessible.
- Plan ahead — book your skills test as soon as you feel ready.
Get Started with CNS Driver Training Center
Whether you’re training independently or through a company-sponsored program, the CNS Driver Training Center provides professional, one-on-one CDL instruction to help you succeed.
Call us: 717-496-9145
Email: support@cnstrains.com
