The Punxsutawney Driver's License Center location and hours
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) operates a driver's license center in Punxsutawney at 124 East Mahoning Street, Punxsutawney, PA 15767. This is a full-service location where you can take your written test, road test, and handle license renewals and replacements.
Hours vary by day. The center is typically open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though you should call ahead at (814) 938-6552 to confirm current hours before you visit, as staffing and schedules can change. PennDOT locations do not operate on weekends or state holidays.
This center serves Jefferson County and the surrounding area. If you live closer to another county, you may find a different PennDOT location more convenient, but you can use any center in Pennsylvania for your tests and transactions.
Key Takeaways
- The Punxsutawney driver's license center is located at 124 East Mahoning Street and handles written tests, road tests, and license renewals.
- You must call (814) 938-6552 to confirm hours before visiting, as they change seasonally and may be affected by staffing.
- You can take your written test and road test at the same location on the same day if you pass the written exam first.
- Bring your learner's permit, proof of identity, proof of residency, and Social Security number when you arrive for any test.
- Road tests book up weeks in advance, so schedule as soon as you are may be able to access rather than waiting until your permit is about to expire.
What documents to bring to the Punxsutawney center
For a written test, bring your learner's permit (if you have one), a valid photo ID, and your Social Security number or ITIN. If you do not yet have a learner's permit, you can take the written test to obtain one; bring your birth certificate or passport, proof of Pennsylvania residency (a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days works), and your Social Security number.
For a road test, bring your learner's permit, the vehicle you will be tested in, proof of insurance for that vehicle, and a valid photo ID. The vehicle must pass a safety inspection — headlights, taillights, wipers, and brakes all need to work. If the vehicle fails inspection, you cannot take the test that day.
For a license renewal or replacement, bring your current license (if you have one), a photo ID, and proof of residency. If your address has changed, bring a document showing your new address dated within the last 60 days.
How to schedule a road test at this location
Road tests in Pennsylvania are scheduled through PennDOT's online system or by calling the Punxsutawney center directly. Online scheduling is faster and shows you available dates when ready. You can book at the PennDOT website under "Schedule a Road Test" — you will need your learner's permit number and a valid email address.
By phone, call (814) 938-6552 and ask for a road test appointment. Tell them your availability and they will offer you the next open slot. Road tests typically book 3 to 6 weeks out, depending on the season. Summer and early fall are busier, so if you are may be able to access to test, schedule sooner rather than later.
You must be at least 16 years and 6 months old and hold a valid learner's permit for at least 6 months before you can take the road test. If you do not meet these requirements yet, you cannot book a test, and the system will tell you so.
What to expect during your road test appointment
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early with your learner's permit, valid photo ID, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be tested in. The examiner will inspect the vehicle first — they check that lights, wipers, horn, and brakes all work. If anything fails, the test is cancelled and you will need to reschedule.
The test itself lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. You will drive on local roads, perform maneuvers like parallel parking and three-point turns, and demonstrate that you can follow traffic laws and react safely to other drivers. The examiner scores you on control, observation, and judgment. You need a score of 70 percent or higher to pass.
If you pass, you can get your license the same day at the Punxsutawney center. If you fail, you can retake the test, but you must wait at least 10 days before scheduling another appointment. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it.
Parking and accessibility at the Punxsutawney location
Street parking is available near the center on East Mahoning Street. The building itself is accessible to people with mobility challenges — there is a ramp entrance and accessible restrooms. If you need accommodations during your test, call ahead and let the staff know what you need.
The center is located in downtown Punxsutawney, within walking distance of other businesses and services. If you are coming from outside the area, allow extra time to find parking and locate the building.
When to use other Pennsylvania driver's license centers
You do not have to use the Punxsutawney center. Any PennDOT driver's license center in Pennsylvania can issue your learner's permit, administer your written and road tests, and process your license. If you live closer to a center in another county — such as DuBois, Indiana, or Clarion — you can use that location instead.
The only reason to choose one center over another is convenience. Your test results and license are valid statewide regardless of where you take them. Some people use a center closer to where they work or go to school rather than their home address.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take my written test and road test on the same day?
Yes, if you pass your written test in the morning, you can take your road test later the same day — but only if you have a road test appointment already scheduled. You cannot walk in and take both tests back-to-back. Schedule your road test in advance, then arrive early on that day to take the written test first.
What happens if I fail my road test?
You can retake it after waiting at least 10 days. Call (814) 938-6552 to schedule your next appointment. There is no limit to how many times you can test, and your learner's permit remains valid while you prepare to try again.
Do I need an appointment for a written test?
No. Written tests are first-come, first-served at the Punxsutawney center. Arrive during business hours with your documents and you can take the test that day. Road tests require an appointment scheduled in advance.
What if the Punxsutawney center is closed when I need to test?
You can use any other PennDOT driver's license center in Pennsylvania. Find the nearest one on the PennDOT website and call to confirm their hours. Your test results will transfer to any center, and your license will be issued regardless of where you test.
Can I renew my license by mail instead of visiting in person?
Pennsylvania allows mail renewal for some license holders, but not all. If you are renewing a standard driver's license and have no medical conditions or restrictions, you may be able to renew by mail. Call (814) 938-6552 or check the PennDOT website to see if you are may be able to access. If not, you must visit the center in person.