HOW TO GET YOUR CDL
Looking to get your CDL? We are super proud of you for wanting to take this journey! Not everyone has what it takes to drive a truck. It requires skills, experience, and physical ability beyond what most people can have.
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In all states, you are required to possess a Commercial Driver License (CDL) if you plan to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV). If you want to know how to get a CDL, follow these easy-to-understand steps to streamline the process.
Step by Step to get your CDL
Step 1: Are you eligible to drive a truck?
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The minimum age for an intrastate license (within the home state) is 18 years in most cases but varies by state
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The minimum age for an interstate license (nationwide) is 21 years
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Get the required medical certification (Department of Transportation medical card) by getting a DOT physical from an approved provider of DOT examinations. All approved providers are listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners
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Locate and have ready all personal verification documents. In most states, you’ll be required to show the DMV/DOT the following documents:
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Proof of Age and Identity (e.g., Birth Certificate, Driver’s License)
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Proof of Social Security (e.g., Social Security Card)
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Proof of Residency (e.g., Utility Bill)
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Proof of Clear Driving History (i.e., Certify that you have your license, it is not suspended and that you maintain one current license, not multiple licenses)
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NOTE: Due to the requirements above, most drivers must obtain their CDL in their state of residency
Step 2: Study the CDL handbook
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Pick up your state’s CDL handbook or training guide at your local DMV
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To be sure you’re prepared for testing, study it thoroughly
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To build confidence, practice tests that you can take online
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Step 3: Fill out the application for a CDL Learners Permit (CLP) at the DMV, or online
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Remember to be prepared to:
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Show proof of identification
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Show proof of residency
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Have your driving record checked for all 50 states, plus the District of Columbia
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Show your DOT medical card (if available)
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Declare which type of commercial vehicle(s) you plan to drive
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Step 4: Turn in your CLP application in person and take the knowledge test
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Pay the application fee
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Pass the test and receive your learners permit for getting your CDL
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Step 5: Choose the right CDL training program
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A good training program will prepare you to sit for your CDL exam. Training programs are offered by private schools, and certain trucking companies offer company-sponsored training.
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Step 6: Practice driving a commercial vehicle using your learner's permit
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You must practice with a qualified driver sitting next to you (private school and company-sponsored training programs will provide supervised driver training time)
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Be sure to practice the inspection tests and the maneuvers in the CDL manual. Getting your CDL means you must pass all three parts of the driving skills test:
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Vehicle Inspection Test
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Basic Controls Test
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Road Test
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You must have your CLP for a minimum of 14 days before taking your CDL driving skills exam due to Federal Guidelines
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Step 7: Schedule an appointment for the CDL driving skills test
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Contact your local DMV/DOT office to schedule your road test appointment
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If you’re attending a trucking school or company-sponsored training program, they will likely guide you in scheduling your road test
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NOTE: Very soon, all states will require CDL training verification before issuing a CDL license
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Step 8: Arrive for your driving skills appointment with the commercial vehicle you plan to drive
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If you plan on being a tractor-trailer driver, arrive for your test with a truck (same applies for school bus drivers, etc.) If you’re attending a trucking school or company-sponsored training program, they normally provide the equipment for your driving skills test
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Pay the required fee
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Step 9: Receive your CDL
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After passing your skills test, take all documents to the nearest DMV/DOT office to obtain your physical CDL
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