Frequently Asked Questions:
Commercial Learner’s Permit

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Applicants must first complete a Commercial Learner's Permit Application (Form DL-31CD), a Self Certification Form(DL-11CD) and pay the required fees. When the learner's permit application is processed, PennDOT will issue a Knowledge Test Authorization (KTA) for each CDL class, endorsement and restriction removal requested. The KTA is the applicant's authorization to appear at a Driver License Exam Site for knowledge testing. As each knowledge test is passed, the applicant is issued a learner's permit, which allows the driver to begin practicing the driving skills. The applicant must hold the commercial learner's permit for at least 15 days for the class of vehicle they intend to drive before the skills test can be taken.

A Knowledge Test Authorization (KTA) is a document similar in appearance to a learner's permit. However, the KTA itself cannot be used like a learner's permit to operate a vehicle. The sole purpose of the KTA is to indicate the CDL classes, endorsements and restriction removals requested by an applicant, and provide the applicant the opportunity to take their knowledge test(s) at a driver license center. This document must be presented when taking the knowledge test(s). It is only after knowledge testing is successfully completed, that an actual Commercial Learner's Permit is issued. A Knowledge Test Authorization is not a driving permit and cannot be used to practice driving skills.

Yes. You must pass all required knowledge testing before practicing your driving skills or attempting the skills test after a 15-day practice period.

A replacement Knowledge Test Authorization can be issued. You will need to complete and submit a notarized 'Application to Replace/Correct Commercial Driver's License' (Form DL-80CD) with the required fee. Once this information is received, a duplicate KTA will be issued.

To correct information on your KTA you will need to complete and submit a notarized 'Application to Replace/Correct Commercial Driver's License' (Form DL-80CD). Once this information is received, a new KTA will be issued.

The knowledge test(s) can be taken on the same day a KTA is issued.

The KTA is valid for one year from the date of issuance. The applicant has one year to pass all knowledge and skills tests in order to obtain their CDL Driver's License.

Yes. If the one-year time period has passed and your CDL learner's permit has expired, you will need to reapply for a learner's permit by again completing the Commercial Learner's Permit Application (Form DL-31CD). Another KTA will be issued by PennDOT, requiring knowledge testing when results are more than a year old.

You can schedule your exam online.

Yes. You can schedule your appointment in advance, although you will not be allowed to schedule an appointment date that falls before the 15-day required practice period.