What Do I Need to Get My Learner's Permit in PA? Know Now

Getting your driver’s license opens up a whole new world of possibilities and much-needed independence. But, before you can learn how to drive, you first need to obtain your learner’s permit and once that’s done, then you’ll need to take a road test and get licensed in Pennsylvania.

Are you still wondering what you need to do to get your learner’s permit in PA? Don’t worry, Driven2Drive is here to walk you through all the steps.

At What Age Can You Get Your Learner’s Permit in PA?

You need to be 16 years old or older, to apply for a Learner’s Permit. If you are under 18 years of age, you will need to be accompanied by a parent, or legal guardian. If they cannot accompany you, they must complete the DMV DL-180TD Form and it must be signed in the presence of a notary. More details on the Pennsylvania permit age for driving can be accessed via the link.

What Documents Do I Need for My Learner Permit In PA?

You will need several different documents, namely:

Pennsylvania driver’s manual.
Non-Commercial Learner’s Permit Application.
If you’re under 18 years of age, a signed Parent or Guardian Consent Form (DL-180TD).
Signed social security card.
A Pennsylvania ID.

A Step-By-Step Guide to Getting Your Learner’s Permit in PA

The process is relatively straightforward but it requires quite a few forms and documents. Read through this complete list first, before starting to put things together. Then, make sure to double and triple-check this list, to avoid queues or having to go back and forth to the Commercial Driver Information Center. Prep for and pass your permit test with these tips.

Get the Pennsylvania Driver’s Manual

You can download the Pennsylvania Driver’s Manual via the DMV website.

Complete the Application and Check the Fees

Complete the Non-Commercial Learner’s Permit Application or the DL-180TD Form. Check the back of the form to see what fee you will need to pay at the center. Note: The application is valid for one year from the date of your physical examination; however, the physical examination date may not be more than six months prior to your 16th birthday.

Visit your doctor for a physical examination and fill out the necessary forms (found on the DMV’s website). If you’re under 18, a parent or guardian must complete these forms. Note: Your parent or guardian needs to accompany you to the test. If he/she/they cannot make it, these forms must be signed in the presence of a notary. If your last name is different from theirs, you need proof of your relationship to them (e.g. your birth certificate).

If you’re over the age of 18 and you want to get a driver’s permit, you need to take your application form, proof of identification, social security card, applicable payment, and two proof of residence documents (for example, a current utility bill, your W-2 form, tax record, weapons permit if you are a US citizen, lease agreement, or mortgage document).

A full list of what to bring to get your learner’s permit test.

Start Learner’s Classes

Start to study for the Learner’s Permit Test, by joining driver’s ed in Philadelphia. You first have to attend permit preparation classes, and driver’s ed theory courses, and also prepare for the permit test. At Driven2Drive, this knowledge is provided by professional tutors so that you can pass the test and begin to practice driving, with some understanding and confidence.

Take the Learner’s Permit Test

Once you feel you have mastered the concepts in the PA driver’s manual, take the required documents with you, your social security card (which must be signed), and the applicable fee to a PennDOT Driver’s License Center; where you’ll also be able to take your vision test and knowledge test. You do not need to schedule these tests. Note: If you wear glasses/contact lenses, you must wear them during your test–your license will state this restriction.

Next, schedule your PennDOT driving test!

Can I Take the PA Learner’s Permit Test Online?

No, the PA Learner’s Permit Test can only be completed at the PennDOT Driver’s License Center. The permit test must be completed in person. You can find more details about the PA permit test locations on our website.

How Do I Practice Driving With My Learner’s Permit in PA?

From the point of getting your Learner’s Permit, an exciting driving journey begins, and we at Driven2Drive are here to support you all the way. You can venture out in a car, with a patient, professional driving instructor, from Driven2Drive; and then practice driving in Philadelphia on the road when accompanied by a licensed driver over the age of 21.

Important Rules for Learner Drivers to Note

You must make sure that you wear your seatbelt, and it must be properly adjusted.
You must be accompanied by someone (21 years, or older) who has a driver’s license.
This person must sit in the front passenger seat, and they must also wear their seatbelt.
You may not transport more people than the number of seatbelts in the car at any given time.
Take a look at the full list of PA Permit Rules.

Book Your Driving Lessons With Driven2Drive

We are committed to getting on the road ASAP!

Scheduling a road test in PA is easy! If you want to pass your driver’s license, choose Driven2Drive for calm, friendly, and competent driving lessons. Driven2Drive is a PennDOT-certified third-party driver’s license testing center, this means that when you are ready to take your road test, you can come to us and we will assist you.

To learn more about our services and how you can get tuition from one of our friendly and knowledgeable instructors, choose and book your lesson package or, give us a call today at 610-664-7400.

Key Takeaways

Age Requirements: You must be at least 16 years old to apply for your learner’s permit in Pennsylvania. Get ready to take that big step towards driving independence!
Study the Manual: Make sure to thoroughly read the Pennsylvania Driver’s Manual before taking the written knowledge test. It’s your go-to guide for passing the exam with flying colors.
Document Checklist: Gather all necessary documents, including proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency documents, before heading to the DMV. Don’t leave anything behind!
Parental Consent: If you’re under 18, you’ll need parental or guardian consent to apply for your learner’s permit. Have a chat with your parents and get their signature before your DMV visit.
Pass the Test: At PennDOT or a certified third-party testing center like Driven2Drive, you’ll face the written knowledge test covering road signs, driving laws, and safe driving practices. Study hard and stay focused to ace it on your first try!
Vision Screening: Don’t forget your glasses or contact lenses if you need them. You’ll need to pass a vision screening test, so make sure you can see clearly before your DMV appointment.
Practice, Practice, Practice: Once you have your permit, hit the road with a licensed adult to practice your driving skills. Use this time to gain confidence behind the wheel and prepare for your future as a licensed driver.

Ronit Tehrani

Ronit Tehrani is the Founder and Co-Owner of Driven2Drive, a premier driving and license testing center in Philadelphia. Since 2013, she has been dedicated to providing safe driving education and skills for lifelong success. Under her leadership, Driven2Drive became Pennsylvania’s first privately owned PennDOT-certified testing center, now with six locations.