Aug 26 • Guides, Tips and Tricks
Your Step-By-Step Guide to Getting Your CDL
This guide outlines the general process for obtaining a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) from start to finish. 🏁
The specific requirements and fees can vary slightly by state, so you'll want to check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency.
⚠️Step 1: Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements⚠️
Before you can even begin, you'll need to confirm a few things.
You must:
- Be at least 18 years old to drive a commercial vehicle within your state. To drive a commercial vehicle across state lines (interstate), you must be at least 21 years old.🔞
- Have a valid, non-commercial driver's license.
- Have a clean driving record with no disqualifying offenses.
🪪Step 2: Obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)🪪
The CLP is the first major step. It allows you to practice driving a commercial vehicle on public roads, but only with a licensed CDL holder in the vehicle with you.
- Study for the Knowledge Tests: You'll need to pass a series of written tests. These typically include General Knowlege, Air Brakes, and Combination Vehicles.
- Complete a Medical Examination: You must pass a physical examination from a certified medical examiner listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) National Registry. This proves you are physically qualified to operate a commercial vehicle.
- Apply for your CLP: Visit your local DMV office with your valid driver's license, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and your medical examiner's certificate. Pay the required fee and take the written tests.
🚚Step 3: Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)🚚
Since February 7, 2022, the FMCSA requires all new CDL applicants to complete mandatory ELDT from a registered training provider.
- Enroll in a Certified CDL School: Find a school that is listed on the FMCSA's Training Provider Registry. The training will cover both theoretical (classroom) and practical (behind-the-wheel) instruction.
- Master Your Skills: The practical training will prepare you for the CDL skills test, focusing on key areas like vehicle inspection, backing maneuvers, and safe driving on the road.
🔥Step 4: Take the CDL Skills Test🔥
This is the final, hands-on part of the licensing process. You will take this test in the type of vehicle you intend to drive commercially.
The test has three parts, all of which must be passed in the same day:
- Pre-Trip Inspection: You will be required to demonstrate a thorough inspection of the vehicle, pointing out all the components and explaining what you're checking for to an examiner.
- Basic Vehicle Control Skills: This section tests your ability to perform basic maneuvers in a controlled environment, such as straight-line backing, offset backing, and parallel parking.
- On-Road Driving Test: You will drive on a public road with an examiner, demonstrating your ability to handle the vehicle in real-world situations, including turns, lane changes, and proper use of signals.
✅Step 5: Receive Your CDL✅
Once you have successfully passed all three parts of the CDL skills test, your examiner will give you your results. You can then return to the DMV to process your paperwork, have your picture taken, and receive your new Commercial Driver's License!
🎊Congratulations on starting your journey toward a new career! This plan should give you a clear roadmap of what to expect🎊
0
0 comments
Your Step-By-Step Guide to Getting Your CDL
powered by
skool.com/audio-visualz-5481
Come connect with fellow drivers!
From learner’s permit 🪪 to your CDL 🚛
All the resources you need to obtain your Commercial Drivers License 🪪 FREE
Suggested communities
Powered by