How to Get Your Learner's Permit in Pennsylvania

Last verified: 2026-03

Here is what you need to know about getting your learner's permit in Pennsylvania. The minimum age is 16, and you will need to hold your permit for 6 months before taking the road test.

Age and Eligibility at a Glance

Minimum Age
16
Permit Holding Period
6 months
Supervised Hours
65 hrs

How to Apply for Your Permit

  1. 1 Gather required documents (proof of identity, Social Security card, proof of residency, parental consent if under 18)
  2. 2 Visit your nearest PennDOT Driver License Center
  3. 3 Pass the vision screening
  4. 4 Pass the written knowledge test
  5. 5 Pay the permit fee
  6. 6 Practice driving with a licensed adult for at least 65 hours, including 10 hours at night

Knowledge Test Details

Number of questions
18
Passing percentage
84%

Supervised Driving Requirements

Total supervised hours
65 hours
Nighttime hours required
10 hours
Permit holding period
6 months

Permit Fees

$35.5

Pennsylvania-Specific Information

Pennsylvania requires 65 supervised hours, the second-highest in the nation after Maine's 70 hours. The permit minimum age is 16, and the intermediate license is available at 16 and a half. Pennsylvania uses PennDOT (Department of Transportation) for driver licensing.

Frequently Asked Questions

You must be at least 16 years old to apply for a learner's permit in Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania requires you to hold your learner's permit for at least 6 months before you can take the road test.

The Pennsylvania learner's permit knowledge test has 18 questions. You need to answer at least 84% correctly to pass.

Pennsylvania requires 65 hours of supervised driving during the learner's permit period. At least 10 of those hours must be completed at night.

Contact the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) for the current list of required documents.

Ready for Your License?

Once you complete your permit period, the next step is earning your full driver's license.

Learn about Pennsylvania's driver's license requirements

Prefer to learn online?

Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.

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This information is based on Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) website for the most current information.