According to the information we have read Pennsylvania does not allow a non-resident who is in possession of a valid learner’s permit from their home state to operate a Motor Vehicle while traveling through Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania law recognizes valid driver licenses issued in the person’s home state, but does not authorize the use of a learner’s permit issued in another state.

However a representative from PennDot stated that you can drive in Pennsylvania with an out of state permit or junior license but you must follow the restrictions or conditions placed on you by your home state.

Since we have receive conflicting information we would recommend that you contact PennDot yourself directly to discuss your NYS permit and see if they will allow you to drive legally in PA with it. PA DMV service representatives are available between the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Their in-state number is 800-932-4600 and out-of-state phone number is 717-391-6190.

You can leave a comment with us on what the PA representative tells you so it can help us inform others if a person with a NYS permit is able to drive in PA.

If PA requires you to adhere to their permit conditions, as well as your NYS restrictions, then these include the following:

• You may only drive under the supervision of a driver licensed in Pennsylvania who is at least 21 years of age or a spouse, guardian, or parent who is at least 18 years of age. The supervising driver must sit in the front passenger seat.
• You may not drive between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. unless your spouse, guardian or parent who is a driver licensed in Pennsylvania and is at least 18 years of age is with you.
• You may not carry more passengers than seat belts available in the vehicle you are driving.