How to get a Pennsylvania Learners Permit
Are you a first time driver? Then getting that learners permit can be exciting and daunting at the same time. This article will take you through the steps to get your Pennsylvania learners permit online with an extra emphasis on safe teen driving.
The Rules
Under Pennsylvania DMV guidelines, you must wait until your 16th birthday before you can apply for a Learners Permit.
All applicants are required pass a written exam and vision test in order to obtain the permit. You then must hold the learners permit for 6 months and log 50 hours of driving time from the issue date prior to applying for a driver license.Prepare for the Written Exam
The Pennsylvania DMV requires that all applicants must pass a written exam on traffic signs, motor vehicle laws and safe driving techniques. The exam consists of 18 questions and you must answer 15 correctly in order to pass.
If you fail the exam, some states require you to wait until at least the next business day to take the test again and charge a re-examination fee.
All new drivers are encouraged to study for this written test so you don't take a chance on standing in line at the DMV Office only to go home empty-handed. Online practice tests are available that provide real sample questions from the DMV Exam - Take the Pennsylvania practice permit test now and test your driving knowledge.Paperwork
Before you head to the Pennsylvania DMV Office, make sure you have all of the following required documents to get your learners permit:
- Your completed Non-Commercial Learner’s Permit Application (DL-180). Your health care provider must complete the back of the non-commercial learner's permit application.
- Proof of date of birth and identification. The only acceptable proof of identification can be found on the back of the DL-180 (Non-Commercial Learner’s Permit Application)
- Your social security card (card cannot be laminated)
- Your check or money order made payable to Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) the correct amount. CASH CANNOT BE ACCEPTED.
On the Road
When you first receive your Pennsylvania learners permit, a driver licensed in Pennsylvania who is at least 21 years of age or a spouse, guardian, or parent who is at least 18 years of age must ride with you in the front seat of your vehicle at all times. In addition, drivers under the age of 18 cannot have more passengers in the vehicle than the number of seat belts.
Learners Permit Resources
|
Pennsylvania Driver's Manual for New Drivers Pennsylvania DMV Pennsylvania Practice Permit Test |


