Do i need a physical for my permit?

This is my first time trying to get my permit and I found out a doctor has to sign and fill out a part of the application. Everyone keeps telling me I need to get a physical so I scheduled an appointment with my clinic and there isn't space for a physical till February! Do I need a physical in particular or is there some other appointment I should be making? My father in law is giving me and my husband a car and will only teach us to drive with our permits obviously but I don't think people have to wait that long just for the doctor to fill out that small area and sign it.

It's in PA. Heard it was one of the few states that do this.