A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required to operate large vehicles including tractor-trailers, buses, tankers, and other commercial vehicles. The CDL has three classes: Class A (combination vehicles over 26,001 lbs), Class B (single vehicles over 26,001 lbs), and Class C (vehicles carrying 16+ passengers or hazardous materials).
10 steps across 1 sections
1. Steps Process
- Determine the CDL class you need — Class A for tractor-trailers and large combination vehicles, Class B for straight trucks, large buses, and dump trucks, or Class C for smaller commercial vehicles...
- Verify eligibility — Must be 18+ (intrastate) or 21+ (interstate), hold a valid regular driver's license, pass a DOT physical examination, and have a clean driving record (checked across all 50 sta...
- Get a DOT medical card — Schedule a physical with a DOT-certified medical examiner. The exam checks vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall health. The medical card is valid for up to 2 years.
- Study the CDL manual — Obtain your state's CDL manual from the DMV website. Study general knowledge, air brakes (if applicable), and your vehicle class-specific sections.
- Pass the CLP knowledge tests — Visit your DMV to take the written knowledge test(s) and vision test. The knowledge test typically has 50 multiple-choice questions. Pass to receive your Commercial L...
- Enroll in CDL training school (recommended) — While not legally required in all cases, attending a FMCSA-registered training program dramatically increases your pass rate. Programs typically last 3...
- Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) — Federal regulations require ELDT theory and behind-the-wheel training from a registered training provider before taking the skills test. This is mandat...
- Practice with your CLP — Drive commercial vehicles under supervision of a CDL holder. You must hold your CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test.
- Pass the CDL skills test — The three-part test includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control maneuvers (backing, parking), and an on-road driving test. You must provide an appropria...
- Add endorsements (optional) — Hazmat (H), Tanker (N), Passenger (P), School Bus (S), Doubles/Triples (T). Each requires additional knowledge tests and some require additional background checks.
Common Mistakes
- Skipping formal training
- Not studying air brakes
- Ignoring the pre-trip inspection
- Not maintaining your medical card
- Driving record issues
Pro Tips
- Many trucking companies offer paid CDL training in exchange for a commitment ...
- Adding endorsements (especially Hazmat and Tanker) significantly increases ea...
- The FMCSA Training Provider Registry (tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov) lists all approved E...
- Some community colleges offer CDL programs at lower cost than private schools...
- Veterans may use GI Bill benefits for CDL training at approved schools