A commercial driver's license (CDL) takes a few steps, and the order matters. This guide covers the steps that apply in every state. Rules and fees change, so treat this guide as a starting point and confirm everything on the official site before you go.
Step 1: Pick your class and endorsements
- Class A: a combination of vehicles where the trailer weighs over 10,000 pounds, such as a tractor-trailer.
- Class B: a single heavy vehicle, such as a straight truck, dump truck or large bus.
- Class C: a smaller vehicle that carries 16 or more passengers or placarded hazardous materials.
Endorsements add to your license. Common ones are air brakes, combination vehicles, tank vehicles, hazardous materials, passenger and school bus.
Step 2: Check the basics
- Age: you must be 18 to drive a commercial vehicle inside your state. You must be 21 to drive between states or to haul hazardous materials.
- A regular driver's license from your state, in most cases.
- A medical examiner's certificate from a federally listed doctor, unless you are exempt. Your state will tell you which category you fall into.
Step 3: Pass the knowledge tests and get your permit
You take the general knowledge test first. Add the tests for the endorsements you want, such as air brakes and combination vehicles. When you pass, you receive a commercial learner's permit (CLP).
With a CLP you can practice on public roads only with a CDL holder sitting beside you who has the right class and endorsements.
Step 4: Complete entry-level driver training
Since February 7, 2022, first-time Class A and Class B applicants, and anyone adding the passenger, school bus or hazardous materials endorsement, must finish entry-level driver training (ELDT) with a provider listed on the federal Training Provider Registry. Your state will not let you take the skills test without it.
Step 5: Wait 14 days, then take the skills test
Federal rules require you to hold the CLP for at least 14 days before the skills test. The skills test has three parts: a vehicle inspection, basic control skills and a road test. Fail one part and the rest can be postponed, so practice each part.
Step 6: Get your CDL
After you pass, your state issues the license. Keep your medical certificate current, because a lapse can cost you your CDL.
Do the knowledge tests first and the pre-trip inspection second. The inspection checklist is easier to remember once you know why each part matters.