Beginning today, all persons who apply to obtain their first CDL Class A or Class B license (or who applies for an upgrade to a higher class of CDL, or an S, P, or H endorsement for the first time) must take and successfully complete entry-level driver training course from a registered training provider before PennDOT can issue them a CDL license. More details on this new requirement can be found HERE.  

The entry-level driver training regulations are not retroactive and do not apply to individuals holding a current CDL license. However, if they possess a commercial drivers learners permit (CLP) and it expires before they obtain their CDL license, they will need to also complete this entry-level driver training before being issued their CDL. 

While this does not impact CDL employers directly, it may temporarily reduce the availability of entry-level drivers. Townships that have in the past used their existing CDL employees to “train” their new hire can no longer rely on this practice unless the township becomes a registered training provider. The current list of registered training providers is available at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov by scrolling down past the FAQ list.