The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Driver Licensing Centers are the primary state-run offices serving Philadelphia residents for all driver-related services. Whether you are a first-time license applicant, need to renew an expiring license, want a REAL ID, or must update vital personal information, PennDOT’s Driver Licensing Centers are essential pillars supporting daily life and safety for all Philadelphians. These public offices are staffed by knowledgeable professionals dedicated to delivering vital motor vehicle and licensing services, ensuring compliance with Pennsylvania law, and promoting safe driving throughout the city.
PennDOT Overview: Name, Location, and Contact Information
Agency Name: Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Driver Licensing Centers
Central PennDOT Website: Driver and Vehicle Services | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
General Customer Service Phone: (717) 412-5300 (TTY callers dial 711)
Customer service is available Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Philadelphia Service Information: Driver’s Licenses And Photo IDs
List of PennDOT Driver License Centers in Philadelphia (2025)
Here are the main locations where Philadelphia residents obtain driver licenses, ID cards, and other driver services. All centers are open Tuesday through Saturday, 8:30 AM–4:15 PM (closed Sunday and Monday).
| Name | Address | Neighborhood | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Center City | 1108 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | Center City | (717) 412-5300 |
| Columbus Blvd | 1530 S. Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19147 | South Philadelphia | (717) 412-5300 |
| Island Avenue | 2320 Island Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19153 | Southwest/South | (717) 412-5300 |
| Lawndale | 919-B Levick Street, Philadelphia, PA 19111 | Northeast (Lawndale) | (717) 412-5300 |
| Mayfair | 6420 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19135 | Northeast (Mayfair) | (717) 412-5300 |
| West Oak Lane | 7121 Ogontz Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19138 | Northwest (West Oak Lane) | (215) 965-4510 |
| South 70th St (REAL ID) | 2904 S. 70th St, Unit 8, Philadelphia, PA 19142 | Southwest | (717) 412-5300 |
Check the PennDOT Find a Location tool for the most up-to-date listings, directions, and operating hours.
Description of Services
PennDOT Driver Licensing Centers in Philadelphia provide a comprehensive suite of services tied to driver credentialing, licensing, identification, testing, and regulatory compliance for all motorists, new residents, and applicants.
License, ID, and Renewals
- New License Applications: First-time applicants can complete all testing and paperwork for learner’s permits, standard driver licenses, and REAL ID-compliant credentials.
- Renewals: Drivers may renew their license or ID online, by mail, or in person. All centers process renewals and print new camera cards; photo centers handle picture updates.
- Duplicate or Replacement Licenses/IDs: Lost or damaged credentials can be replaced quickly. Staff will issue a camera card, and you’ll receive a physical license by mail.
- REAL ID: Residents can upgrade to federally compliant REAL ID credentials at select centers (notably South 70th St). Applicants must present required identification and residency documents; most centers process REAL ID pre-verification.
Address and Name Changes
- Change of Address: Instantly update your Pennsylvania record with a new address. Receive a printable update card on-site to present with your license, complying with law enforcement requirements.
- Name Changes: Manage changes due to marriage, divorce, or legal actions. Documentation requirements are explained by staff.
Testing: Vision, Knowledge, and Road Skills
- Vision and Knowledge Exams: All first-time applicants and many renewals require testing. Centers administer state-approved knowledge exams for cars, motorcycles, and commercial vehicles (CDLs).
- Road Tests: Schedule and complete the necessary road test for original licensing. CDL and motorcycle testing is available at select sites.
Driver History and Records
- Obtain 3- or 10-year driver history or certified records for personal use, employment, or legal purposes.
- Employers and drivers can request records for compliance and hiring.
License Restoration and Special Services
- Suspension Assistance: PennDOT staff guide drivers through restoration requirements, fees, and documentation for suspension resolution. Services include insurance verification and payment posting.
- Special Licensing: Centers advise on medical requirements/restrictions, veteran or disabled credentials, and non-U.S. citizen licensing.
New PA Residents
- Complete license transfers, vehicle registration, and residency verification.
- Staff assist with paperwork for out-of-state license conversion, including required proofs of identity and residency.
Other Key Services
- Organ Donor Enrollment: Sign up on your license.
- Emergency Contact Database: Register contacts accessible to law enforcement in case of accidents.
- Vehicle Registration: Although not the primary site for registration, staff can direct clients to the proper locations or authorized messenger services in the area.
- Photo Center Services: Most full-service centers offer photo updates with renewal or new license/ID issuance.
- Accessibility and Language Assistance: All locations provide support for hearing-impaired and language translation as needed.
How PennDOT Centers Benefit Philadelphia Residents
PennDOT Driver Licensing Centers are essential infrastructure in Philadelphia’s urban landscape. They impact nearly every resident—whether driving daily, commuting for work, raising a family, or relocating. Their professional staff maintain compliance with state and federal regulations, safeguarding public safety and facilitating efficient services for millions of annual visitors.
- Convenience: Multiple locations and online pre-verification tools ensure short wait times and easy access.
- Efficiency: Streamlined processing for photos, renewals, records, and exams.
- Public Safety: Rigorous testing and licensing help ensure safe streets.
- Community Role: Centers provide outreach, resource guidance, and help resolve licensing issues with compassion and expertise.
PennDOT Online Services
Pennsylvania residents are increasingly able to handle basic transactions—renewals, addresses, REAL ID pre-verification, scheduling exams—using the Online Driver and Vehicle Services portal.
Each PennDOT Driver Licensing Center in Philadelphia is committed to serving its diverse population with accuracy, respect, and care. Whether you’re getting your very first license, renewing for another term, or solving a complex licensing challenge, PennDOT staff are ready to help—online, by phone, and at their convenient neighborhood locations.
For the latest information, hours, required documents, and detailed local directions, visit the Driver and Vehicle Services website or call customer service at (717) 412-5300.