Pennsylvania Driver's Manual Study Notes

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 – Non-Commercial Learner's Permit Information

  • Applying for a Learner’s Permit
       You must obtain a learner’s permit before operating a motor vehicle in Pennsylvania.
       - Complete the Non-Commercial Learner’s Permit Application (DL-180) found on www.dmv.pa.gov.
       - Medical provider must complete the back of DL-180 form no earlier than six months prior to your 16th birthday.
       - If health conditions may impair driving, additional medical examinations may be required.
       - Parental consent is required for applicants under 18 years old using DL-180TD.
       - Provide proof of residency if over 18 years of age.
       - At the Driver License Center, provide DL-180, proof of birth, Social Security card, and applicable fees.
       - Must pass vision and knowledge tests to obtain learner's permit.

  • Important Information
       - Learner's permit is valid for one year.
       - Under 18: 65 hours of supervised driving including 10 hours at night and 5 hours in inclement weather are required.
       - A licensed adult (21 or older) must accompany drivers under 18.
       - If the learner’s permit expires or you fail the road test after three tries, reapply for a learner's permit.

  • Organ Donor Designation
       - Applicants may choose to be designated as an organ donor upon license renewal.
       - Under 18 requires parental consent for organ donor designation.
       - Contributions can be made to the Organ Donation Awareness Trust Fund.

  • Veterans Designation
       - Veterans can add a designation to their license. Must have served in U.S. Armed Forces under honorable conditions.
       - Contributions can also be made to support Pennsylvania veterans.

  • Social Security Number Information
       - Social Security numbers are collected to minimize fraud. Not printed on documents.

  • Pennsylvania Vision Standards
       - Drivers may require corrective lenses. Vision tests must be passed to obtain a license.

  • Junior Learner's Permit Information
       - Learner's permits are valid for one year. Certain restrictions apply for drivers under 18.