Obtaining A CDL

Federal Guidelines

To get a CDL, start by obtaining a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). Complete a training program to learn essential skills, then pass road tests to earn your CDL. This opens up opportunities in commercial driving.

STEP By STEP

NEW Drivers start here

Every new driver will follow a similar process due to federal regulations, regardless of their location. States can impose stricter requirements than the federal guidelines, but they cannot be more lenient. So, while a state can make the process more challenging, it cannot make it easier.

Meet Minimum Requirements for a CDL

Above is the link to the FMCSAs minimum standards to qualify for a cdl

GET YOUR PERMIT or CLP VALID 1 Year

A commercial learner's permit (CLP) is a permit that only authorizes you to practice on public roads with a qualified CDL holder sitting next to you. Getting the permit involves more than just passing all the knowledge tests for the type of driving you want to do. To make sure that you are eligible your driving record is checked for the last 10 years in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. You need to bring in the proof that your state accepts to show that you are medically qualified. Most types of commercial driving require a DOT medical card, requiring a DOT physical. Your state may require specific documents it wants to see to prove your name and proof of residency. There are fees for getting the CLP. Reading and following the instructions in your states CDL Manual streamlines the process ***General Knowledge Test*** ***Combination Vehicle Test*** ***Air Brakes Test***

Complete Entry-Level Driver Training

THEORY & BEHIND THE WHEEL

Drivers applying for a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time who are issued a CLP on or after February 7, 2022 must complete entry-level driver training with a registered training provider prior to Skills testing. Some States may have additional requirements above and beyond the Federal training requirements.

Note: There is no Federal requirement for drivers to complete their entry-level driver theory training before applying for a CLP.

Get the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

You are required to possess the CLP for 14 days and complete applicable entry-level driver training to be eligible to take the CDL skills test.

You must pass all 3 parts of the Skills Test: the Vehicle Inspection Test, the Basic Controls Test, and the Road Test. Your state may even allow you to use their “training aid” to help you remember items on the vehicle inspection checklist. Taking the skills test is no guarantee that you will pass.

Once you have passed the skills test you need to take the documentation to the counter for processing. Some States will give you the CDL that same day, while others send it to you in the mail. Regardless make sure that everything is correct before you leave the counter. It can be costly and embarrassing if you find a mistake later.

WHY YOU NEED A CDL OR CDL PERMIT TO TAKE ELDT TRAINING

If your theory training is recorded under your regular driver’s license and you later obtain a CDL permit, your behind-the-wheel training will be registered under your CDL permit number. The DMV won’t see your theory training when they check your record in the TPR. To avoid repeating the theory training, get your permit first.