Driver and Licensing Miscellaneous Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I drive in Pennsylvania with my Foreign Driver's License?
Individuals who possess a valid foreign driver's license from their country are authorized to drive in Pennsylvania for up to one year from their date of entry into the United States, or upon expiration of their foreign license, whichever comes first. International driving permits are strongly recommended, but not required.

2. What is the Pennsylvania point system and how does it work?
The Department of Transportation maintains a driving record for every licensed driver in Pennsylvania. Points are added to a driving record when a driver is found guilty of certain driving (moving) violations. The purpose of the point system is to help improve driving habits and to ensure safe driving. The Department begins to take corrective actions when a driving record reaches 6 or more points. The Pennsylvania Point System Fact Sheet is now available for downloading on this website.

3. Why does PennDOT need my Social Security Number on driver's license/learner's permit and photo ID applications?
Download the Social Security Number Fact Sheet for more information.

4. Where can I find out more about young driver laws?
Please reference Pennsylvania’s Young Driver Law Fact Sheet, where you can learn more about such issues a young driver laws and some basics of safe driving.