Pennsylvania’s learner’s permit application, form DL-180, doubles as a physical examination certificate. A physician, physician assistant, certified registered nurse practitioner or chiropractor completes the medical section on the back before you apply.

No earlier than six months before your 16th birthday, and the completed form is valid for one year from the date of the examination. Timing it too early means starting over.

Sixty-five hours of supervised driving, including at least 10 hours at night and 5 hours in poor weather conditions. It is one of the highest requirements in the country.

Pennsylvania is distinctive in specifying 5 hours of driving in inclement weather such as rain, snow or fog. Most states set only a night-driving minimum.

A licensed driver aged 21 or older, or a parent, guardian, person in loco parentis or spouse aged 18 or older who holds a driver’s licence, seated in the front.

No driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. Exceptions cover employment, public or charitable service, and volunteer fire company duty, and you should carry documentation such as a notarised affidavit from your employer or fire chief.

Yes. At 17½ you may apply for a senior licence if you have completed an approved driver education course and held your junior licence for a year with no crashes or convictions. Without driver education, you wait until 18.

Your valid learner’s permit, the parent or guardian certification form DL-180C if you are under 18, proof of insurance and registration, and the accompanying driver’s licence.