Start Your Journey as a Professional Truck Driver

Everything you need to know about obtaining your Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in the USA.

What is a Commercial Driver's License (CDL)?

A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is a special driver's license required in the United States to operate large, heavy, or placarded hazardous material vehicles for commercial purposes. It certifies that you have the skills and knowledge to safely drive these vehicles on public roads.

The rules are established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), but each state issues its own CDLs. Obtaining a CDL involves passing a written knowledge test and a three-part skills test.

CDL Classes:

  • Class A: Required to operate any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 lbs. or more, provided the towed vehicle is heavier than 10,000 lbs. This includes tractor-trailers.
  • Class B: Required to operate a single vehicle with a GCWR of 26,001 lbs. or more, or towing a vehicle not heavier than 10,000 lbs. This includes straight trucks and buses.
  • Class C: Required to operate a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or for transporting hazardous materials (HAZMAT).

Eligibility Requirements

Age

You must be at least 18 years old to get a CDL for intrastate (within one state) driving and at least 21 years old for interstate (across state lines) driving.

Medical Status

You must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical exam to certify that you are physically qualified to operate a commercial vehicle safely.

Driving Record

You need a valid, non-commercial driver's license and a clean driving record. Your driving history for the last 10 years will be reviewed.

How to Get Your CDL: Step-by-Step

1
Get a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)

Study the CDL manual for your state and pass the required written knowledge tests at your local DMV. You'll also need to provide proof of identity and residency.

2
Practice Driving

With your CLP, you can practice driving a commercial vehicle. You must be accompanied by a valid CDL holder. Federal regulations require you to hold the CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test.

3
Pass the CDL Skills Test

This is a three-part exam: the Vehicle Inspection Test, the Basic Controls Test (maneuvering), and the Road Test. You must pass all three sections to get your CDL.

Helpful Resources

Use these official links to find your state's CDL manual and other important information.

FMCSA Official Website - Federal guidelines and regulations for CDLs. DOT Medical Exam Information - Find a certified medical examiner and learn about the requirements. DMV.org - A helpful resource to find your local DMV and state-specific CDL information. (Note: This is a private site, not an official government agency).

Frequently Asked Questions

It typically takes about 3 to 7 weeks to get a CDL, depending on whether you attend a full-time truck driving school and how quickly you can pass the required tests.

Endorsements are special certifications that allow you to drive specific types of commercial vehicles. Common endorsements include:
  • T - Double/Triple Trailers
  • P - Passenger
  • N - Tank Vehicle
  • H - Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT)
  • S - School Bus

Yes. As of February 2022, the FMCSA requires all new CDL applicants to complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a registered training provider before they can take their CDL skills test. This makes attending an accredited school or training program essential.