Navigating the path to becoming a professional truck driver in Pennsylvania requires understanding the CDL licensing process. Whether you are looking to start a new career or expand your professional opportunities, knowing the timeline and steps to obtain your Commercial Driver’s License is crucial. In general, it typically takes around eight to ten weeks to get a CDL in Pennsylvania. Specifically, this comprehensive guide will break down the essential information you need to know about getting your CDL in PA, including training requirements, exam preparation, and potential timeframes for completion.
Now let’s discover the details and see how long you have to wait to get a CDL in Pennsylvania!
How long does it take to get CDL in Pennsylvania?
Generally, you can expect to spend around eight to ten weeks to get a CDL in Pennsylvania. The reason why this duration varies is that it also depends on many factors like training sites or test-taking sites you choose, and also the time you need to prepare for the CDL knowledge and skills test.

Choosing CDL class
You can expect to spend just one or two day for this phase..
Whether it is class A (for large trucks or combination vehicles), class B (for smaller vehicles or heavy trucks), or class C (for vehicles transporting hazardous materials or fewer passengers), each class has its own specific requirements for training and testing.
Prepare necessary documents
Before you can begin the process of getting your CDL, you will need to gather several key documents. These documents are to ensure you meet health standards required for commercial driving. It is recommended that you prepare this carefully to avoid any adjustcation. Generally, it takes around two to three days to complete this step.
Complete Entry-Level Driver Training
The ELDT is designed to ensure that drivers are prepared for the CDL knowledge test and road skills exam. Depending on the provider, the training can take several weeks to complete. Typically, the ELDT takes around six to eight weeks to be completed.
Acquiring the Commercial Learner’s Permit
Once you have completed the required Entry-level Driver Training, you must pass a written knowledge test at your local Pennsylvania Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to acquire your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). The CLP allows you to practice driving with a licensed CDL holder before taking the final road skills test.
Although taking this knowledge test only takes you a day, you should spend several days practicing and revising for it.
Take the Pennsylvania CDL practice test today!
Schedule and take the CDL Skills test
After obtaining your CLP, you must gain practical experience behind the wheel. When you are ready, schedule and take the CDL skills test, which consists of a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and an on-road driving test.
Similar to the knowledge test, it only takes you within a day to finish the CDL skills test. Once you pass the skills test, you will be issued your CDL, and you can begin your career as a professional driver.
FAQs
1. How long is CDL training in Pennsylvania?
CDL training in Pennsylvania typically lasts six to eight weeks for full-time programs. The exact duration depends on the type of CDL (class A, B or, C) and the training provider.
2. How fast can I get my CDL in Pennsylvania?
You can obtain your CDL in Pennsylvania as quickly as six weeks if you complete the training, tests, and documentation efficiently, with no delays.
Final thoughts
In short, you can expect to spend about eight to ten weeks to get a Commercial Driver’s License in Pennsylvania. This duration includes every step from choosing a CDL class, preparing required documents, completing the Entry-level Driver Training, passing the Knowledge and Skills test. Now that you have an answer for the question How long does it take to get CDL in Pennsylvania, should anything be confusing, do not hesitate to leave questions below for further discussion.