PennDOT, Shapiro Administration Expands Statewide Truck Parking Options Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), Pennsylvania Turnpike (PA Turnpike), and Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association officials announced that the Commonwealth is adding 1,202 truck parking spaces in 133 locations by the end of 2026. In addition, the PA Turnpike is evaluating opportunities for more than 600 additional spaces across its system. This is the first statewide expansion of designated parking spaces other than through facility construction projects and will provide safe options for commercial drivers to meet federal hours-of-service rest requirements, helping to address a longstanding, nationwide challenge and improving driver safety. “Truck parking is a nationwide issue, and with the high volume of freight traffic coming through Pennsylvania, the Shapiro Administration knew that we needed to tackle this problem,” PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll said. “As a commercial driver’s license-holder myself, I know how important this commonsense approach is to our economy and workforce. By adding these spots – and looking at ways to add even more – we’re giving truckers many more options to safely park and meet their rest requirements.” PennDOT’s designated truck parking spots will be established on Interstate on-ramps with no sight distance or safety concerns, weigh stations used for PSP motor carrier safety enforcement, and various other locations within highway right of way. PennDOT and PSP staff collaborated closely to identify sites that can be designated quickly and cost-effectively. Spots will be marked with truck-parking signage installed by PennDOT. “This initiative directly supports our mission to ensure motor carrier safety by reducing driver fatigue and improving the overall safety of our highways,” PSP Director Bureau of Patrol Major Robert Krol said. “Safe, designated parking is essential for commercial drivers, and this effort represents a significant step forward in protecting everyone who travels on Pennsylvania’s roads.” As part of its ongoing investment to the trucking community, the PA Turnpike is evaluating the feasibility of additional spaces at various locations throughout its system, including emergency pull-offs, interchange on-ramps and service plaza on-ramps. Over the last two decades, the PA Turnpike has added parking where it can, investing more than $30 million to expand truck parking at numerous service plazas, including Sideling Hill, Lawn, Highspire, North Somerset and Stanton service plazas. As it converts to Open Road Tolling (ORT), the PA Turnpike is reviewing the reconfiguration of interchanges can create opportunities to provide additional spaces for truck parking. “The trucking community is essential to our mission of supporting national commerce,” said PA Turnpike CEO Mark Compton. “We are dedicated to finding innovative solutions that address the increasing truck parking shortages along our system, and we take pride in collaborating with partners throughout the Commonwealth to enhance driver safety and improve logistics efficiency.” Due to its role supporting regional logistical operations, the Pennsylvania Turnpike is one of the few toll roads that held – and grew – its commercial volumes from pre-pandemic levels. Systemwide, commercial traffic is 15% higher than pre-pandemic levels. To complement the added spaces and to share available their locations, PennDOT today unveiled a new “Public Truck Parking” option on www.511PA.com and the 511PA smartphone application. The map displays existing truck parking options and both agencies’ newly designated locations will be added as the parking becomes available. Truck parking concerns have been well documented, including through a study by the Pennsylvania State Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC) in 2023. This parking expansion addresses the study’s recommendation to “repurpose select state-owned surplus properties.” The action to expand parking builds on PennDOT’s work on other recommendations included in the TAC study. The department has established the Truck Parking Task Force, an ongoing collaboration with regional and municipal partners along high priority corridors identified in the study. Additionally, the department has engaged the trucking industry, municipalities, and planning partners to help promote and advance potential solutions at the local level. “Truck drivers are essential to keeping our economy moving, goods on our shelves, and food in our pantries — but they need safe places to stop and rest. With only one parking space for every 11 drivers on the road, too many truckers are forced to choose between breaking hours-of-service laws or stopping in unsafe locations. Every new space added to our highway network means one more trucker who has a safe and secure place to stop tonight. PMTA thanks PennDOT and the Turnpike Commission for their commitment to tackling this problem to help truck drivers and keep our roads safer for everyone,” PMTA President & CEO Rebecca Oyler said. Motorists can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional X alerts. Information about state infrastructure in Pennsylvania, including completed work and significant projects, is available online. Find PennDOT’s planned and active construction projects at www.pa.gov/DOTprojects.
PennDOT, Shapiro Administration Opening Commonwealth’s 20th EV Charging Station Pennsylvania has opened its 20th NEVI site for Pennsylvania travelers, leading the nation in stations built through the program. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced the opening of the state’s 20th federally-funded Electric Vehicle (EV) charging station, putting Pennsylvania in the lead nationally for the number of stations built using funds from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program and representing a total federal investment of approximately $11.5 million. The new station is located atSheetz in Pittsburgh on Freeport Road along Interstate 76 (Exit 48). Since the first NEVI-funded station opened in PA, the charging stations have delivered more than 30,000 charging sessions, powering over 3.5 million estimated miles driven and reducing CO2 emissions by more than 1.7 million pounds (or 750 metric tons). Additionally, PennDOT announced that it is the first state to receive a Full Build-Out Certification under the new federal NEVI guidance issued in August. The build-out certification allows a state to move beyond the initial phase of the NEVI program that focused on building charging stations on the core network of interstate highways, enabling PennDOT to begin the next stage of the NEVI program — Corridor Connections — which will be released on or before October 7, 2025. “Thanks to our team’s diligent work in 2023 and 2024, and Governor Shapiro’s persistent efforts to secure Congressionally appropriated funding, we’re in a position to continue making EVs more accessible for PA travelers,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “That quick action ensured Pennsylvania could adapt to national program changes while locking in investments for Pennsylvania.” Per NEVI guidance issued August 11, PennDOT submitted an updated Pennsylvania NEVI State Plan and a second request for Full Build-Out Certification to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) on August 27, 2025. The next phase will begin projects that connect communities. The NEVI State Plan was approved on September 5, 2025, and PennDOT received Full Build-Out Certification on September 22, 2025. Having received approval, the Shapiro Administration is moving forward with the community phase of the NEVI program, beginning with the Corridor Connections Funding Opportunity The Corridor Connections Funding Opportunity focuses on implementing EV charging stations along major roadways to strengthen long-distance travel outside of previously designated Alternative Fuel Corridors. These locations are expected to serve the communities and regions near the charging station locations. Projects funded from the Corridor Connections program will improve range confidence for drivers who are considering travel with an EV across and throughout the Commonwealth. PennDOT anticipates soliciting about 24 projects through the Corridor Connections Funding Opportunity, with up to $20 million in available funding. The Funding Opportunity is expected to include more than 1,000 miles of roadway. The submission period will close on January 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM EST. Full program details will be available on the Corridor Connections webpage on October 6, 2025. National data on the status of the NEVI program by state is available at https://evstates.org/awards-dashboard/. Information about state infrastructure in Pennsylvania, including completed work and significant projects, is available online. Find PennDOT’s planned and active construction projects at www.pa.gov/DOTprojects.
Shapiro Administration Continues Safety Efforts with Roundabouts Today, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced that roundabouts continue to provide safe, efficient travel across the Commonwealth. Since 2005,104 roundabouts have been built to improve traffic flow and/or decrease crash severity, and more than 30 additional roundabouts are in various stages of design and construction across Pennsylvania. “For us, it’s simple. Roundabouts remove cross-traffic turns and eliminate T-bone crashes, while improving traffic flow” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “Any design that dramatically reduces the most serious crashes we see on the road is worthy of consideration in our projects.” PennDOT finalized a data review through 2024 using 20 years of crash data from roundabouts around the state. Study findings showed that crashes with injuries were reduced by 51 percent and total crashes decreased by 7 percent. Pennsylvania data reflects national studies that found changing two-way sign-controlled intersections to a single-lane roundabout reduced injury crashes by more than 80 percent. Likewise, changing a signalized intersection to single-lane or multilane roundabout reduced crashes with injuries by up to 78 percent. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) lists roundabouts as a “Proven Safety Countermeasure” that improves safety by reducing vehicle speeds by angling incoming traffic. The crashes that do occur tend to be sideswipe crashes with vehicles traveling at slower speeds rather than T-bone or head-on collisions. Additionally, eliminating left turns across opposing traffic results in dramatically fewer injuries. In addition to safety improvement, roundabouts carry, on average, approximately 30 percent more vehicles during peak traffic than similar intersections. In off-peak hours, roundabouts cause almost no delay, compared to traffic signals. As roundabouts are constructed around the state, it is important to know how to correctly navigate them. Here are a few key things to remember when navigating a roundabout: Slow down and be prepared to yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk. Circulating traffic has the right of way. Look left and check for approaching traffic. If there are multiple circulating lanes, yield to both before entering. Do not assume the vehicle in the inside lane will stay there. Do not stop while in the circulatory roadway, and always use your right turn signal to indicate your exit. Click here for PennDOT’s data review Click here for the national studies
PennDOT Honors Star of Excellence Recipients At a ceremony in Harrisburg yesterday, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Secretary Mike Carroll recognized 30 PennDOT employees for their outstanding performance with the Star of Excellence Award, PennDOT’s highest recognition. Erin G. Mazikewich and Christopher Tomaszewski from PennDOT’s Engineering District 4 whichrepresents Lackawanna, Luzerne, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne, and Wyomingcountieswere among the honorees. “Every day, I am reminded of our employees’ dedication, their excellent customer service, and in many cases, their sacrifices,” said Carroll. “The accomplishments of our Stars of Excellence exemplify PennDOT’s mission to provide the very best transportation services to Pennsylvanians every day.” Erin G. Mazikewich and Christopher Tomaszewski were honored at an awards luncheon at the National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg. “Year after year, Erin and Chris have used their talents, creativity, and passion for innovation to improve the traveling experience for residents of and visitors to communities all across northeastern Pennsylvania,” said Richard N. Roman, P.E., District Executive for PennDOT Engineering District 4, based in Dunmore. “Allowing each one of them to shine even more brightly are their individual capacities to build lasting relationships within those communities, which in turn has enhanced the reputation of PennDOT District 4.” Erin G. Mazikewich In her nearly 25 years of service to PennDOT, Erin has consistently demonstrated exemplary performance, effectively coordinating annual plans and monitoring results for Susquehanna and Wyoming counties. In her role as Assistant Highway Maintenance Manager, Erin has also introduced innovative safety measures in each county, she prioritizes safety and has never experienced a personal or preventable fleet accident. Erin is our recruitment champion for both counties. She represents our team at all internal and external county job fairs, as well as at local recruitment events. She also regularly participates in county interview panels, ensuring that candidates are informed about the benefits, values, and rewards of a career at PennDOT. Christopher Tomaszewski In his role as Highway Design Manager – Liaison Engineer, Chris is a valued member of the district design community. His experience and willingness to contribute whenever needed are significant assets. Chris assists local municipalities and counties with their design and engineering agreements. His efficiency enhances infrastructure beyond our state-owned network. He has also played a crucial role in developing several engineers who have joined the Liaison unit after completing their civil engineering training. Chris is consistently recognized by our design partners and the consultant design community for his contributions to the upcoming agreements list for District 4. He receives this recognition during design gatherings, such as ASHE meetings and various marketing meetings.
PennDOT Announces Innovations Challenge Regional Winners The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) today announced that a team of students from the Career Technology School of Lackawanna County has been selected as the PennDOT Innovations Challenge winner in the Dunmore-based, six county region. The PennDOT Innovations Challenge – now in its eighth year – is a statewide competition for high school students to develop creative and strategic solutions to real-world transportation challenges. The Innovations Challenge reflects the Shapiro Administration’s focus on a safe, efficient transportation system and gives students an opportunity to explore a career in state government. Mentored by Jonathan Coyne, team members include: Paige Rivers and Ben Cerra. “More than 90 percent of the unbelted travelers who died in crashes on our roads last year could have been saved by seat belts,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “In a crash, a seat belt can mean the difference between life and death. We need to reach our drivers and riders with that message.” For this year’s challenge, students were asked to develop a cost-effective, innovative solution that can help PennDOT more effectively increase motorist awareness for seat belt safety and change driver behavior to improve roadway safety. On average, more than 350 unrestrained fatalities occur on Pennsylvania’s roadways annually. PennDOT is committed to continuously improving roadway safety and deploys a multi-faceted strategy, which involves promoting behavioral programs and implementing infrastructure improvements. Nevertheless, the number of unrestrained fatalities remains high and changing driver behavior is crucial to solving this issue. The winning regional team’s innovation was a seat belt indicator on the exterior of a vehicle. “We are excited to announce that Paige Rivers and Ben Cerra from the Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County are the winners of the 2025 Innovations Challenge for PennDOT Engineering District 4,” said Richard N. Roman, District Executive for PennDOT Engineering District 4. “Their innovative idea to add a seat belt indicator light to the exterior of a vehicle will advance to the statewide judging. We wish them all the best in the statewide competition.” Regional Innovations Challenge winners will be invited to present their solutions to the PennDOT Secretary and a panel of judges in April, when a statewide winner will be determined. For this year’s challenge, the Transportation Policy and Education Foundation, an educational arm of the Associated Pennsylvania Constructors organization, the American Council of Engineering Companies of PA, the Mid-Atlantic Section of the Institute of Transportation Engineers and the Intelligent Transportation Society of Pennsylvania are providing a combined total award of $6,000 to the statewide winning team. For complete Innovations Challenge details, visit the PennDOT website. Motorists can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information, and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional X alerts.
PennDOT Announces Registration for 2025 Pick Up Pennsylvania Over 3.2 million pounds of litter and trash picked up in 2024 by more than 77,000 volunteers As part of the Shapiro Administration’s commitment to maintaining the Commonwealth’s natural resources and enhancing tourism, Pennsylvanians are invited to register for the 2025 Pick Up Pennsylvania litter cleanup initiative. A collaborative effort among the Pennsylvania Departments of Transportation (PennDOT) and Environmental Protection (DEP) and Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful, Pick Up Pennsylvania offers civic-minded volunteers an opportunity to help keep their communities clean and free from litter. Litter can pollute streams and rivers with microplastics, degrading water quality, and harming the fish, birds, and wildlife that depend on healthy streams and rivers to thrive. Pick Up PA, an annual volunteer effort to clean up Pennsylvania roads, parks, streams and communities, represents Governor Shapiro’s commitment to protecting Pennsylvania’s cherished natural resources. Earlier this year the Shapiro Administration announced more than $15 million in funding to conserve and protect waterways and watersheds, reclaim abandoned mine sites, and plug abandoned wells. In 2024, more than 77,000 volunteers participated in Pick Up Pennsylvania. Over 3.2 million pounds of litter and trash were picked up, 4.5 million pounds of materials recycled, and more than 14,000 trees, flowers and other greens were planted. Also in 2024, PennDOT’s Adopt-A-Highway program hosted nearly 23,000 volunteers belonging to 4,600 groups and supported the collection of more than 39,000 bags of trash from PA roadways. “Last fiscal year, PennDOT spent $18 million picking up litter along the 40,000 miles of state-owned roadways. The Shapiro Administration has made protecting the Commonwealth’s environment a key focus, and we’re proud to continue that work,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “The thousands of Pennsylvanians who volunteer their time to keeping litter out of our roads, parks and waterways are a key component to keeping PA beautiful, and there is always more work to be done.” DEP and Pennsylvania Waste Industries Association are sponsoring trash disposal, free of charge or at a reduced rate for registered program participants, at participating landfills from April 1 through April 30, with prior approval. Events scheduled through May 31 are eligible to receive free trash bags, gloves, and safety vests provided by support from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and PennDOT, as supplies last. “Litter is a problem that affects all of us – it pollutes streams, dirties our parks and highways, and is just gross,” said Acting DEP Secretary Jessica Shirley. “When people see an area with litter, it’s a signal that they can also just toss their trash – so it is important to keep Pennsylvania litter-free. Joining a pickup event, or organizing your own, is a great way to keep Pennsylvania beautiful.” “We are incredibly grateful to our volunteers, local officials, and sponsors who make Pick Up Pennsylvania, the state’s largest community improvement program, possible,” said Shannon Reiter, President of Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful. “As we drive along the highways and back roads of Pennsylvania, it’s easy to see the impact of litter. Litter affects our quality of life, the natural environment, and economic development in communities across the state.” Registered litter cleanups, illegal dump cleanups, community greening and beautification, special collections and education events are eligible for free cleanup supplies. To host, register or join an event near you or to inquire about free supplies and trash disposal, visit keeppabeautiful.org, choose “Programs,” then “Pick Up PA” or contact Michelle Dunn, Pick Up Pennsylvania Program Coordinator, at 877-772-3673 ext. 113 or mdunn@keeppabeautiful.org. “After the long winter, we hope residents are ready to get outside, roll up their sleeves, and pick up the trash left behind as the snow melts,” said Reiter. “Enhancing an area with plants, flowers, or a fresh coat of paint can also help keep it litter-free. Anyone can participate in Pick Up PA by visiting our website.
PennDOT to Host ‘REAL ID Day’ at Tunkhannock Driver License Center To help ensure Pennsylvanians are prepared for the upcoming federal REAL ID enforcement deadline of May 7, 2025, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced today that it will hold special REAL ID service hours at its Tunkhannock Driver License Center at 600 Hunter Highway Suite 12, Tunkhannock on February 10, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. “We’re committed to ensuring our customers are ready for the REAL ID enforcement deadline of May 7, 2025,” said PennDOT Deputy Secretary for Driver and Vehicle Services Kara Templeton. “By offering special hours on a day when our centers are typically closed, we’re providing an additional opportunity for those who want to obtain a REAL ID and be prepared. We are always looking for ways to provide a better service to residents and our REAL ID Days accomplishes that mission.” More than 2.5 million Pennsylvanians have chosen to opt into the REAL ID program. Getting a REAL ID is optional in Pennsylvania, but beginning May 7, 2025, Pennsylvanians will need a REAL ID-compliant license/identification card, or another form of federally acceptable identification (such as a valid passport or military ID) to: Board domestic commercial flights. Enter a military base. Enter certain federal facilities that require a federally acceptable form of ID. If you’re not sure whether a REAL ID is right for you, our REAL ID online wizard may be able to help. Federal REAL ID regulations require that PennDOT must verify the below documents: Proof of Identity: examples include an original or certified copy of a birth certificate filed with the State Office of Vital Records/Statistics with a raised/embossed seal, or a valid, unexpired U.S. Passport. Proof of Social Security Number (proof must display currently legal name and full nine digits of the Social Security Number): examples include a Social Security card, a W-2 form, a SSA-1099 form, a non-SSA-1099 form, or a pay stub. Two Proofs of Current, Physical PA Address: examples include a current, unexpired PA driver’s license or identification card, vehicle registration, or a utility bill with the same name and address. Proof of all Legal Name Changes (if current legal name is different than what is reflected on proof of identity document): examples include certified marriage certificate(s) issued by the County Court for each marriage, court order(s) approving a change in legal name, or adoption decree issued by your county’s family court. Note: If current name is the same as what is reflected on the proof of identity document (usually birth certificate or passport), show proof of legal name change does not need to be shown. More information about REAL ID document requirements can be found on PennDOT’s REAL ID website. When a customer gets their first REAL ID product, they will pay a one-time fee of $30, plus the applicable renewal fee (the current renewal fee is $39.50 for a four-year non-commercial driver’s license and $42.50 for a photo ID). The expiration date of their initial REAL ID product will include any time remaining on their existing non-REAL ID product, plus an additional four years, unless the customer is over 65 and has a two-year license. This expiration date structure means that the customer won’t lose time that they’ve already paid for. After the initial REAL ID product expires, the customer will pay no additional fee beyond regular renewal fees to renew a REAL ID product. After customers present the proper documentation and pay the applicable fee, customers may obtain a REAL ID-compliant product by: Receiving the product in the mail within 15 days, if application was made at a Driver License Center, such as the Tunkhannock Driver License Center. Receiving the product over the counter, if application was made at one of PennDOT’s 15 REAL ID Centers. Customers who received their first Pennsylvania driver’s license, learner’s permit, or photo ID card AFTER September 1, 2003, may already have their REAL ID documentation on file with PennDOT. These customers can apply for REAL ID pre-verification and order their REAL ID-compliant product online. For a full list of driver license centers, REAL ID Centers, and services offered, please visit the PennDOT Driver and Vehicle Services website and click on Find A Location. For more information on REAL ID, visit PennDOT’s REAL ID website. REAL ID is optional for Pennsylvanians, but will be required for domestic air travel and entry to certain federal facilities after the May 7, 2025, deadline. A passport will still be required for international travel. Motorists can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional X alerts.
Governor Shapiro Reduces or Eliminates Registration Fees for Some Veterans, Retired Customers Through bipartisan efforts between the Shapiro Administration and the Pennsylvania General Assembly, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is pleased to announce that due to changes established in Act 60 of 2024, signed by Governor Shapiro in July, the annual income threshold for a retired Pennsylvanian to qualify for a reduced vehicle registration fee was increased, allowing more people to be eligible for this benefit. Additionally, some veterans may now be eligible for free vehicle registration and titling fees. “We’re glad that these changes in the law help make things a little easier for older Pennsylvanians and our veterans,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “PennDOT and the Shapiro Administration are committed to working with the General Assembly on commonsense changes like these that have a direct, positive impact on people’s lives.” Previously, the annual income threshold for a retired customer to qualify for a reduced registration fee of $11 annually was $19,200. Beginning December 16, 2024, the annual income threshold increases to $29,906 and will be subject to annual Consumer Price Index adjustments. “As we age, many of us find ourselves hitting the road less, yet paying the same registration fee as those who drive more frequently. With the changes to the annual income limits, these reduced fees will enable more older adults to save some money to spend on other necessities while still having peace of mind on their vehicle’s registration,” said Pennsylvania Department of Aging Secretary Jason Kavulich. “Thanks to Governor Shapiro, the General Assembly, and PennDOT for keeping older adults a priority.” For qualifying customers to receive the reduced vehicle registration fee of $11, they must complete and submit Form MV-371, “Application for a Retired Person’s Processing Fee of a Vehicle Registration.” Customers should attach the completed form to their invitation to renew and return it to PennDOT to be processed. The $11 annual fee will be applied after the application is processed. More information on eligibility requirements can be found on PennDOT’s Driver and Vehicle Services website. Act 60 also provides for the elimination of registration and title fees for one passenger vehicle or truck weighing 9,000 pounds or less owned by military veterans who meet the following requirements (license plate fees still apply): Vehicles registered to a veteran who lost a limb or eye or who became partially paralyzed while serving in the Armed Forces of the United States.Vehicles registered to a person who, as a member or the Armed Forces of the United States, was captured by the enemy in any armed conflict for which the Department of Defense authorizes a campaign medal. Vehicles registered to a person who has been awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. Vehicles registered to a person who has been awarded the Purple Heart. “As the Commonwealth’s leading advocate for our servicemembers, past and present, the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is grateful to the Shapiro Administration for its continued support of veterans and their families,” said Brig. Gen. John Pippy, Pennsylvania’s acting adjutant general and head of the DMVA. “Many veterans who have served our nation have sacrificed to a level most will never experience. Efforts like eliminating registration and title fees for eligible veterans sends an important message that Pennsylvania has not forgotten all you have done while in uniform.” For more information about driver licensing and vehicle services for veterans, visit PennDOT’s driver and vehicle services website. Traveling by domestic aircraft on or after May 7, 2025? You will need a REAL ID-compliant product or other federally-accepted form of identification if you do. Visit www.dmv.pa.gov/REALID for information on how you can get a REAL-ID compliant driver’s license or identification card today. There are less than six months left to prepare. Motorists can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional X alerts.
PennDOT: Voting Open for Paint the Plow ProgramPennDOT: The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) District 4 invites the public to vote on 12 plows decorated by high school students in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Pike, Wayne, and Wyoming counties as part of the annual Paint the Plow program. Paint the Plow is a statewide outreach aimed at promoting winter driving safety and fostering appreciation for high school art programs and student creativity. Earlier this year, PennDOT invited students/teens from District 4 to paint plow blades based on the statewide theme “Use Your Reason When It’s Freezin,” The theme was chosen to remind motorists that seat belts save lives and should be worn year-round. Students from Carbondale Area High School, Delaware Valley High School, Dunmore High School, Hanover Area High School, Hazleton Area High School, Honesdale High School, North Pocono High School, Northwest High School, Old Forge High School. Riverside High School, Tunkhannock High School, and West Scranton High School participated. This year, the public is invited to vote through an online survey posted on the PennDOT website District 4 Paint the Plow Voting 2024. The voting form can be found by clicking on the county names within the table. Additional Paint the Plow art programs were held throughout the state and the public may vote on their favorite from each participating district. Participation is limited to one vote per person per district. The plow photo in each district that receives the most votes between December 10 and December 15, 2024, will be deemed the “Fan Favorite” for that area. Along with the “Fan Favorite” award, the blades are also eligible for the“Judges’ Pick” honor that will be determined by PennDOT personnel. The winner in each category will be announced at the end of December. Schools and participants are encouraged to share the link to the contest to promote voting. PennDOT may post thepictures on statewide and regional Facebook accounts, however responses on social media will not count toward the voting totals. For more information on PennDOT’s winter preparations and additional winter-driving resources for motorists, visit the department’s winter website.
PennDOT License Centers Closed for Veterans Day Weekend The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) today announced that all driver license and photo centers, including its full-service center in Harrisburg, will be closed Saturday, November 9, 2024, through Monday, November 11, 2024, in observance of Veterans Day. Customers may still obtain a variety of driver and vehicle products and services, including all forms, publications, and driver training manuals, online through PennDOT’s Driver and Vehicle Services website. Driver and vehicle online services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and include driver’s license, photo ID and vehicle registration renewals; driver-history services; changes of address; driver license and vehicle registration restoration letters; ability to pay driver license or vehicle insurance restoration fee; driver license and photo ID duplicates; REAL ID pre-verification; and driver exam scheduling. There are no additional fees for using online services. A complete listing of PennDOT driver and photo license center closings in 2024 is available online. If you are planning to visit one of PennDOT’s On-Line Messenger Service Centers, please call ahead for hours of operation during holidays. Traveling by domestic aircraft on or after May 7, 2025? You will need a REAL ID-compliant product or other federally-accepted form of identification if you do. Visit www.dmv.pa.gov/REALID for information on how you can get a REAL-ID compliant driver’s license or identification card today. There are only six months left to prepare. Motorists can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional X alerts.
