Step 2: Get the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Reading and following the instructions in your states CDL Manual streamlines the process. Your state may require specific documents it wants to see to prove your name and proof of residency. Most types of commercial driving require a DOT medical card, requiring a DOT physical. You need to bring in the proof that your state accepts to show that you are medically qualified. 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. Getting the permit involves more than just passing all the knowledge tests for the type of driving you want to do. Once you've finished getting informed and making decisions, there are two basic steps to getting a CDL: Step 1: Get the Commercial Learners Permit (CLP)Ī Commercial Learners Permit (CLP) is a permit that only authorizes you to practice on public roads with a qualified CDL holder sitting next to you.

It is important to make sure you pass all the required tests or risk having restrictions on your license. Each types of CDL and endorsement requires you pass a skills test and in some cases a written test. There are 3 classes of CDLs with endorsements for specialized qualifications for vehicles like school buses, tank trucks, tractor trailers, etc.

The second step is to decide which type of vehicle and what kind of driving you want to get the license for.

Each state has its own processes to getting the CDL. The manual is available in their field locations, downloaded from their website and printed.

The first step is to get a copy of your state's Commercial Driver’s Licensing (CDL) Manual.

There are medical requirements and residency requirements besides knowledge and skills requirements. Per the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration: + What are the requirements for obtaining a CDL?

Class C: You can operate a Class C vehicle that transports hazardous materials and requires a placard with endorsements and employment, you can operate a 16-passenger van.

Class B: You can operate a single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds you can operate any such vehicle towing another vehicle weighing fewer than 10,000 GVWR.Class A: You can operate any combination of vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 if the vehicle you’re towing weighs more than 10,000 pounds.Thanks to the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986, every state has the same three CDL classes: + What different classes of CDL's are there? CDL Frequently Asked Questions + What's a CDL?Ī commercial driver's license (CDL) is a driver's license required in the United States to operate any type of vehicle weighing 26,001 pounds, or 10,001 pounds with any type of trailer towed, or transports quantities of hazardous materials that require warning placards under Department of Transportation regulations.

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