Commercial Drivers' License (CDL) Information
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CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info
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Alabama
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Alaska

Alaska's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Alaska and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have an Alaska Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

Those exempted from the commercial driver licensing requirements include drivers of recreational, military and emergency vehicles. Farm vehicles are exempt if controlled and operated by a farmer, used to transport agricultural products or machinery to and from a farm, not used in for-hire or contract carrier operations, and if driven no further than 150 miles from the farm.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

An applicant must be at least twenty-one years of age at the time of application and must have held a valid driver license for at least one year. For license to drive commercial vehicles only within the state, the applicant must be at least nineteen years of age.

The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

The commercial driver license fee is $100.00. There is also a $25.00 non-refundable fee for those requiring a road test. Road test appointments must be scheduled in person at the office where the test will be taken. In the Municipality of Anchorage, commercial tests are administered by the Center for Employment Education (CEE). Call 274-TEST (274-8378) for an appointment.

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Alaska CDL Manual: http://www.state.ak.us/local/akpages/ADMIN/dmv/dlmanual/manuals.htm

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Alaska Department of Motor Vehicles: http://www.state.ak.us/dmv/akol/index.htm

Alaska Department of Transportation: http://www.dot.state.ak.us/




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Alabama

Alabama's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

Alabama adopted the Federal Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986, and is part of a nationally uniform system of classifying, testing, and licensing commercial vehicle drivers.

If you drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have an Alabama Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds. The holder of a Class A license, which includes any appropriate endorsements, may operate all vehicles included in Class B, C, and D (Operator License).

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds. Class B licensees, with appropriate endorsements, may drive all vehicles in Class C or D.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification and may drive all vehicles in Class D.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test NameTake If...
Passenger Transport...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card. If your legal name has changed, you will need to bring the original legal name change documents (marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree).

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

Commercial Driver License issuance fees are paid to the Probate Judge or License Commissioner at the time the temporary license is issued (prices may vary by county).

Class A: $48.00

Class B: $38.00

Class C: $18.00

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Alabama CDL Manual: http://www.dps.state.al.us/public/driverlicense/

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Alabama Department of Public Safety Motor Carrier Safety Unit: http://www.dps.state.al.us/public/highwaypatrol/mc/

Alabama Department of Motor Vehicles: http://www.ador.state.al.us/motorvehicle/index.html

Alabama Department of Transportation: http://www.dot.state.al.us/




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Arizona

Arizona's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Arizona and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Upon passing the written examinations, an instructional permit is issued for you to learn how to drive a commercial motor vehicle. This permit is good for six months. You will be required to take a road test in the type of vehicle representative of the class of license for which you are applying.

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring proof of having held a driver license for at least one year (proof may be a current driver license or a motor vehicle report from another state.), an Arizona driver license (if coming from out of state, a 5-year, limited Arizona driver license must be issued at the time of application and the out of state license cancelled.), and a correctly completed physical examination form (DOT Long Form).

The physical examination can be given by any licensed physician. If your doctor does not have the DOT Physical Examination form, a blank form can also be obtained at any MVD office.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

The fees are:

$25.00 for a Class A or B

$12.50 for a Class C

$10.00 for each endorsement you may require.

Where Can I Get More Information?

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Arizona Department of Motor Vehicles: http://www.dot.state.az.us/MVD/mvd.htm

Arizona Department of Transportation: http://www.dot.state.az.us/

State of Arizona Department of Public Safety: http://www.dps.state.az.us/default.asp




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Arkansas

Arkansas's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Arkansas and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Commercial Driver License (CDL).

Class A - Any combination of vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of the vehicles being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds. Minimum age of 18.

Class B - Any single vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of 26,001 pounds or more and any vehicle towing a vehicle not in excess of 10,000 pounds. Minimum age of 18.

Class C - Any single vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of less than 26,001 or any such vehicles towing a vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating not in excess of 10,000 pounds comprising: (1) vehicles designed to transport 16 passengers or more, including driver; (2) vehicles used in the transport of hazardous materials which are placarded. Minimum age of 18.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

Fees are as follows:

Commercial drivers license (original or renewal) - $42.00

Commercial drivers license test fee - $35.00

Restricted commercial drivers license test fee (restricted to church or school buses only) - $20.00

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Arkansas CDL Manual: http://www.asp.state.ar.us/dle/dle.html

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Arkansas Office of Driver Services: http://www.arkansas.gov/dfa/driverservices/index.html

Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department: http://www.ahtd.state.ar.us/




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California

California's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

A commercial driver license is a license issued in accordance with Federal Regulations that allows an individual to operate a commercial vehicle.

A commercial vehicle is a motor vehicle or combination used for hire to transport passengers or property or which:

  • Has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more
  • Is designed, used, or maintained for carrying more than 10 passengers, including the driver
  • Tows a vehicle or trailer, which has a GVWR of 10,001 pounds or more
  • Transports hazardous materials, which requires placards
  • Tows any combination of two trailers or vehicle and trailer

How Do I Start The Process Of Applying For A CDL?

First, apply for a commercial permit. Follow these steps:

To apply for a commercial permit, you will need to:

  • Visit a DMV office (make an appointment for faster service)
  • Complete application form DL 44 (An original DL 44 form must be submitted. Copies will not be accepted.)
  • Give a thumb print
  • Have your picture taken
  • Provide verification of your social security number. It will be verified with the Social Security Administration while you are in the office.
  • Verify your birth date and legal presence (you may use your California driver license)
  • Pay the $57 application fee for a 4-year license (if you already have a California license and are upgrading to a commercial license, the application fee is $64 or a 5-year license)
  • Pass a vision exam
  • Submit a completed Medical Examination Report form DL 51 (An original DL 51 form must be submitted. Copies will not be accepted.)
  • Pass the traffic laws and sign tests for the class of vehicle you will drive. You have three chances to pass the test.

Note: To allow you sufficient time for testing, the DMV will not administer written or audio exams after 4:30 p.m.

Once you have passed your tests, you will be issued a permit. You can only drive with a person who has a valid California driver license in the class of license that your permit is for and is the specific age required for that class of license.

To apply for a commercial driver license, follow these steps:

  • Call a DMV CDL office and make an appointment (driving test appointments cannot be made online)
  • Bring the type of vehicle for the class you want to drive
  • Pass a pre-trip inspection (You have three chances to pass the pre-trip)
  • Pass a skills and driving test (You have three chances to pass the skills and driving test)
    OR
  • Submit to DMV a Certificate of Driving Skill (DL 170) if your employer is authorized by DMV to issue such certificates. Both you and your employer sign this form.

After you pass your driving test or submit your certificate, you will be issued an interim license valid for 60 days until you receive your new photo license in the mail.

What Kind Of Medical Exam Do I Need?

A medical form completed by a U. S. licensed doctor of medicine (M.D.), osteopathy (D.O.), licensed physician assistant (P.A.), a nurse practitioner (N.P.), advance practice nurse, or chiropractor must be given to the DMV with your original application for a driver license or instruction permit. The medical form must be dated within the last 2 years and on a form approved by the Federal Highway Administration, the Federal Aviation Administration, DMV, or on the DMV Report of Medical Examination Report form DL 51 (An original DL 51 form must be submitted. Copies will not be accepted.).

California Vehicle Code (CVC) Section 12517.2(a) requires all applicants for an original or any renewal of a certificate(s) to drive a school bus, school pupil activity bus, youth bus, general public paratransit vehicle or farm labor vehicle to submit a report of a medical examination, completed by a physician (MD) licensed to a practice medicine (doctor of osteopathy [DO] is acceptable). The report of medical examination must be submitted upon application and every two years thereafter. CVC Section 12517.2(b) requires all school bus drivers within the same month of reaching the age of 65 to submit an acceptable medical report on a yearly basis.

Once you have received your license, you will be required to submit a medical form every two years.

The physician will complete and sign a Medical Certificate Card (DL51A) for you to carry when you are driving commercially. You can be given a citation for driving out-of-class if you drive a commercial vehicle after your medical certificate expires or without a valid medical certificate in your possession.

If you are required to have a CDL as part of your job, your employer shall pay the cost of the examination unless your examination was taken before you applied for the job (Labor Code Section 231).

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to be at least 21 years old and pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.
Persons under 18 may not be employed to drive a motor vehicle. Minors may not drive a school bus containing pupils. You must be at least 21 to drive most commercial vehicles for hire in interstate commerce and to transport hazardous materials or wastes.

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the California CDL Manual: http://www.dmv.ca.gov/commercial/commercial.htm

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

California Department of Motor Vehicles: http://www.dmv.ca.gov/dmv.htm

California Department of Transportation: http://www.dot.ca.gov/

California DOT Division of Traffic Operations: http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/traffops/

California Partners for Advanced Transit and Highways: http://www-path.eecs.berkeley.edu/




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Colorado

Colorado's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Colorado and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Colorado Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

The cost for a Colorado CDL is $35.00, valid for four years.

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Colorado CDL Manual: http://www.mv.state.co.us/Handbooks.htm

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles: http://www.mv.state.co.us

Colorado Department of Transportation: http://www.dot.state.co.us/




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Connecticut

Connecticut's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

The following are definitions of classifications and endorsements that appear on Connecticut commercial licenses:

Classifications

A = Any combination of vehicles with a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds providing the gross vehicle rating (GVWR) of the vehicle(s) being towed in excess of 10,000 pounds. Holders of class A licenses may, with the appropriate endorsements and restrictions, operate all vehicles within classes B and C.

B = Any single vehicle with GVWR of 26,000 or more pounds, or such vehicle towing a vehicle not in excess of 10,000 pounds GVWR. Holders of class B licenses may, with the appropriate endorsements and restrictions, operate all vehicles within class C.

C = Any single vehicle/combination of vehicles, that does not meet the definition of class A or B, but is:

  • designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
  • designed to transport 11 or more passengers, including the driver and is used to transport students under the age of 21 years of age to and from school.
  • a vehicle that is required to be placarded for hazardous materials.

Endorsements

H = Hazardous Materials

N = Tank

P = Passenger

S = School Bus/STV

T = Doubles/Triples

X = Hazardous Materials and Tank Combined

Most Commercial Driver's Instruction Permit (CDIP) applicants are in one of the following two categories of drivers:

The first category of applicants will have a current non-commercial driver's license from Connecticut. All of these applicants must obtain a Commercial Driver's Instruction Permit prior to behind-the-wheel training in a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV).

The second category of applicants will have a current Connecticut Commercial Driver's License (CDL). These applicants will be "changing" or "upgrading" their CDL by doing one or more of the following:

  • Removing the air brake restriction
  • Adding the Passenger Endorsement
  • Going to a class "A" or "B" from a class "C"
  • Going to a class "A" from a class "B"

Doing any one of the above requires the applicant to get a CDIP.

The CDIP is not required if a skills test is not required. This occurs when an operator who holds a current CDL is adding a Hazmat, Tank and/or Doubles/Triples Endorsement.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

The general knowledge test, which must be taken by all CDL applicants, consists of 30 questions (you can get no more than six incorrect).

Each endorsement test includes 10 questions (you can get no more than two incorrect).

An applicant mustpass the general knowledge test before a skills test can be scheduled. Skills tests are made by appointment only.

An operator is required to take a skills test if he/she currently holds a:
- non-commercial license and wishes to obtain a CDL.
- CDL "C" and wishes to obtain a CDL "B" or "A".
- CDL "B" and wishes to obtain a CDL "A".
- CDL and wishes to obtain a "P" Endorsement.
- CDL and wishes to remove an "Air Brake Restriction".

You will be evaluated on the following items:

  • Pre-trip Inspection
  • Static Course
  • On the Road Test

Failure of any part of the skills test will result in a failure of the entire skills test. If you fail you will be required to go back to the office where you took your knowledge/endorsement tests and pay $30 to take the test again. There is a minimum seven-day waiting period between skills tests.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Applicants must:

  • be at least 18 years of age.
  • be at least 21 years of age to haul hazardous materials.
  • be at least 21 years of age to drive interstate.
  • carry a medical certificate stating he/she meets the federally mandated minimum physical requirements necessary to operate such motor vehicle.

The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

  • Your Connecticut driver license and all other driver licenses issued to you by any state.
  • Your Social Security card (laminated or metal cards are not acceptable) or your most recent W-2 form.
  • A recent passport size color photograph of yourself without a hat (Applicant must provide photo which must be no smaller than 1 1/4" x 1 3/4" and no larger than 2 1/2" x 3 1/4").

Note: If you are not a citizen of the United States, you will be required to show proof of your legal status in this country.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

General Knowledge Test: $16

Endorsement Tests (each): $5

Skills Test: $30

CDIP, New: $10

CDIP, Modify: No Fee

CDL, Upgrade: $17

CDL, Modify: No Fee

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Connecticut CDL Manual: http://www.ct.gov/dmv/cwp/view.asp?a=837&Q=245446&dmvPNavCtr=|28069|&dmvPNavCtr=|41639|41650|#28279

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles: http://www.ct.gov/dmv/site/default.asp

Connecticut Department of Transportation: http://www.ct.gov/dot/site/default.asp




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Delaware

Delaware's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Delaware and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Delaware Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

Delaware has a special non-CDL license to identify farmers and firefighters who operate CMVs under the CDL waiver provisions. For further information, contact your local motor vehicle office.

All Delaware school bus drivers must have a CDL and to meet additional Delaware Department of Instruction school bus training and medical requirements. For further information, contact your local motor vehicle office.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

After you pass the written tests, you will be issued a CDL permit that will allow you to drive a CMV with a licensed CDL driver. You may only drive the type vehicle for which you have tested and only with a CDL driver qualified in the same type CMV. This permit is valid for six months.

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. You must arrange for the skills test at the same motor vehicle office where you took the written tests. You must test in a vehicle that is representative of the one you will be driving. If the vehicle is not safe, is not insured, or is not registered, the motor vehicle examiner will be unable to administer the skills test.

There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Requirements For A CDL?

Applicants must:

  • Be at least 18 years old with at least one year of driving experience.
  • Be a Delaware resident.
  • Not have had a license denied, suspended, disqualified, revoked or cancelled in Delaware or any other state.
  • Be able to obtain medical certification under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.

The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

The fee for a five-year CDL is $30.00. The fee to keep the expiration on your current license while you hold a CDL permit is $17.50.

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Delaware CDL Manual: http://www.dmv.de.gov/

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Delaware Department of Motor Vehicles: http://www.dmv.de.gov/

Delaware Department of Transportation: http://www.deldot.net/




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District of Columbia



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Florida

Florida's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Florida and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Florida Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

Endorsements:

H = Any vehicle used to transport hazardous materials in placardable amounts.

N = A tank vehicle designed to transport any liquid or gaseous material with designed capacity of 1,000 gallons or more.

P = Any vehicles, public or private, designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver

T = Combination vehicles with double/triple trailers

X = Any tank vehicle used to transport placardable amounts of hazardous materials

The following persons are exempt from the requirements to obtain a commercial driver license:

  • Drivers of authorized emergency vehicles that are equipped with extraordinary audible warning devices that display red or blue lights and are on call to respond to emergencies
  • Military personnel driving military vehicles
  • Farmers transporting farm supplies or farm machinery, or transporting agricultural products to or from the first place of storage or processing or directly to or from market, within 150 miles of their farm
  • Drivers of recreational vehicles used for recreational purposes
  • Drivers who operate straight trucks (single units) that are exclusively transporting their own tangible personal property that is not for sale
  • An employee of a publicly owned transit system who is limited to moving ehicles for maintenance or parking purposes exclusively within the restricted-access confines of a transit system's property.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

The exam requirements for a Class A CDL are:

  • General knowledge
  • Combination Vehicles
  • Air brakes
  • Applicable endorsements
  • Pre-trip vehicle inspection
  • Basic vehicle control
  • On-road

The exam requirements for a Class B CDL are:

  • General knowledge
  • Air brakes, if applicable
  • Pre-trip vehicle inspection
  • Basic vehicle control
  • On-road

The exam requirements for a Class C CDL are:

  • General knowledge
  • Air brakes, if applicable
  • On-road

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

The minimum age is 18. Drivers under 21 years of age are restricted to intrastate operation only.

The applicant’s vision must be at least 20/40 in each eye. Corrective lenses may be worn. The applicant must be able to hear a whisper.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

Fees are as follows:

Commercial Driver License: $50.00

Endorsements: $5.00

Written Examination Re-Test Fee: $5.00

Skill/Driving Examination Re-Test Fee: $10.00

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Florida CDL Manual: http://www.hsmv.state.fl.us/handbooks/

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Florida Department of Motor Vehicles: http://www.hsmv.state.fl.us/

Florida Department of Transportation: http://www.dot.state.fl.us/




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Georgia

Georgia's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Georgia and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Georgia Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed. Skills tests are given by appointment only.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Persons 18 to 21 may obtain a commercial driver’s license, but will be restricted to drive in Georgia only. On or after the 21st birthday, the driver must go to the examination station and the Georgia Only restriction will be lifted.

The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

The application fee for a CDL is $35.00. There is no fee for veterans or school bus drivers.

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Georgia CDL Manual: http://www.dmvs.ga.gov/forms/CDLmanual.asp

Application for a CDL: http://www.dmvs.ga.gov/forms/pdf/dls/dl-1230.pdf

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Georgia Department of Motor Vehicles: http://www.dmvs.ga.gov/

Georgia Department of Transportation: http://www.dot.state.ga.us/




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Hawaii

Hawaii's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Hawaii and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Hawaii Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

These people do not need a CDL:

  • Active duty military (including National Guard) with military licenses operating military vehicles
  • Federal, state and county firefighters and police operating authorized emergency vehicles
  • Individuals operating motor homes or other vehicles used exclusively to transport personal possessions or family members, for non-business purposes.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

After you pass the written tests and the vision test, you will receive an instruction permit. The instruction permit is valid for six months and allows you to practice driving under supervision of a driver who has a CDL for the type of a vehicle you wish to drive.

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, your birth certificate, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, a passport-type photo, and your social security card.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

Fees are as follows:

Base operator license: $10-$12 (depending on county)

General knowledge test: $15

Endorsement test: $5

Instruction permit: $30

Skills tests: $50 (vehicle inspection - $10, basic control - $20, on-road - $20)

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Hawaii CDL Manual: http://www.state.hi.us/dot/highways/hwy-v/hicdlman.pdf

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Hawaii does not have a statewide Department of Driver Licensing. Driver Licensing is managed by each county government. Use this link to find licensing information in your county: http://www.state.hi.us/dot/publicaffairs/driverlicense.htm

Hawaii Department of Transportation: http://www.state.hi.us/dot/

Hawaii Transportation Association: http://www.htahawaii.org/




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Idaho

Idaho's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

Idaho's Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Program is designed to improve safety on our highways while meeting federal requirements for testing and licensing of all commercial drivers. You must have a CDL to operate any of the following commercial vehicles:

  • Combination vehicle with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds, provided that the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the towed unit is greater than 10,000 pounds
  • Single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 or more pounds
  • Vehicle designed to transport 16 or more persons (including the driver)
  • Any size vehicle that requires hazardous material placards.

Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is the manufacturer's assigned weight rating for the vehicle (truck, bus, or trailer), not the vehicle's registered weight. On trucks, the GVWR is usually found on a metal identification plate inside the driver's door. On trailers, it may be found anywhere but is commonly found on the front of the trailer on the driver's side. For Idaho, in the absence of a GVWR, the actual weight of the vehicle plus its heaviest load is considered to be the GVWR. Other states may use other definitions. Gross combined weight rating (GCWR) is figured by adding the GVWR of each unit of a combination vehicle.

There are three classes of commercial driver's licenses: Class A, B and C.

Class A - Combination vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds, provided the GVWR of the vehicle(s) being towed is greater than 10,000 pounds. Drivers with a Class A license may, with the proper endorsements, operate vehicles requiring a Class B, C or D license.

Class B - Single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds, or any such vehicle towing a vehicle 10,000 pounds GVWR or less. Drivers with a Class B license may, with the proper endorsements, operate vehicles requiring a Class C or D license.

Class C - Vehicles with a GVWR or GCWR less than 26,001 pounds. Class C is strictly for vehicles designed to carry 16 or more people (including the driver), or carry hazardous materials requiring the vehicle to display placards. A driver with a Class C license may also operate vehicles requiring a Class D license.

You must have the appropriate endorsement on your CDL if you haul hazardous materials, pull double or triple trailers, or drive tank or passenger vehicles.

Hazardous materials (H) - Required for drivers of vehicles transporting hazardous materials requiring placards per the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act. A written test is required at each driver license renewal date.

Double/Triple (T) - Required for drivers of vehicles pulling two or three trailers. (A dolly or load divider, sometimes referred to as a "jeep," is considered to be one trailer.)

Tank Vehicles (N) - Required for drivers of vehicles designed to transport liquids or gaseous materials within a tank that is either permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle or chassis. Such vehicles include, but are not limited to, cargo tanks and portable tanks, as defined in hazardous materials regulations. This definition does not include portable tanks having a rated capacity under 1,000 gallons.

Passenger (P) - Required for drivers of vehicles designed to carry 16 or more passengers including the driver. Both written and skills tests are required to obtain this endorsement.

A Seasonal Commercial Driver's License is available to qualified seasonal drivers for certain farm-related service industries such as custom harvesters, farm retail outlets and suppliers, agri-chemical businesses, and livestock feeders. The Seasonal CDL is only valid within 150 miles of the business or farm being serviced. It is valid (with a Class D license) for 180 days in a 12 month period, and can only be obtained twice in a lifetime. It is not valid for driving Class A (combination) vehicles or passenger vehicles designed to carry 16 or more people including the driver. It is not valid for driving vehicles carrying hazardous materials requiring placards except for diesel fuel in quantities of 1,000 gallons or less, liquid fertilizers in vehicles or implements of husbandry with total capacities of 3,000 gallons or less, or solid fertilizers that are not mixed or transported with any organic substance.

There are four categories of CDL exemptions.

  • Recreational vehicle exemption - applies to drivers of vehicles used exclusively to transport personal possessions or family members for non-business or recreational purposes.
  • Military vehicle exemption - applies to military vehicle operators who are considered active-duty military personnel and to civilians who are required to wear uniforms and are subject to the Code of Military Justice.
  • Emergency vehicle exemption - applies to drivers of fire fighting or other emergency equipment used in response to emergencies involving the preservation of life or property.
  • Farm vehicle exemption - applies to drivers of farm vehicles, including family members and farm hands, under certain conditions only. The farm exemption applies to drivers of farm vehicles that are:

1. Controlled and operated by the farmer,

2. Used to transport agricultural products, supplies, and machinery to or from a farm,

3. Not used in common or contract carrier operations, and

4. Not driven more than 150 miles ("as the crow flies") from the farm.

The farm exemption is intended for small farm-to-market operations only. It does not extend beyond the boundaries of Idaho. It does not include farmers who are transporting other farmers' products if they are receiving any compensation for the services.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

After you pass the written tests, a CDL instruction permit is available. An instruction permit is valid for up to 180 days. You must be accompanied by a driver properly licensed to operate the vehicle you are driving. This person must occupy the seat beside the driver.

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and either have a valid Idaho non-commercial license (Class D) or have passed all tests required to obtain one. Applicants may be able to take the Class D license tests and CDL tests at the same time. However, applicants must have one year of driving experience in order to obtain a CDL.

The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Paperwork Do I Need?

To apply for your CDL, take your current driver license and social security card to your county sheriff's office. When you go to the skills tester after you pass the written tests, you will need to take identification, proof of insurance, and your receipts showing you have passed the written tests and paid the skills test fee.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

CDL fees are as follows:

CDL license (4-year): $28.50

Endorsement addition (after issuance of a CDL): $11.50

Written tests (each): $ 3.00

Skills test ($5 to Driver's License Office, $50 to Skills Tester): $55.00

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Idaho CDL Manual: http://www.itd.idaho.gov/dmv/driverservices/ds_forms.htm

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Idaho Department of Motor Vehicles: http://www.itd.idaho.gov/dmv/index.htm

Idaho Department of Transportation: http://www.itd.idaho.gov/




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Illinois

Illinois's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

You need a Commercial Driver's License if you operate:

  • Any combination of vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, providing the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds.
  • Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or any such vehicle towing another not in excess of 10,000 pounds.
  • Any vehicle, regardless of size, designed to transport 16 or more persons, including the driver.
  • A vehicle required by federal regulations to be placarded while transporting hazardous materials.

Classes of commercial driver licenses are:

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

Farm-Related Services Restricted CDL:

This is a seasonal restricted CDL that can be issued for a period between 90 and 180 days in any 12-month period and is valid only within 150 miles of the employer's place of business. The holder must meet certain requirements.

Drivers Exempt (Waived) From CDL Requirements:

Under state and federal law, certain drivers are not subject to the requirements of the CDL program. Although the following vehicle operators are not required to obtain CDLs, they are required to hold the proper driver's license classification for the type of vehicle that they are operating.

Farm Operators:

The farm operators' exemption is intended to cover legitimate farm-to-market operations by farmers, not commercial grain haulers. CDLs are not required to operate vehicles that are:

  • Controlled and operated by a farmer, a member of the farmer's family or an employee,
  • Used to transport farm products, equipment, supplies or a combination thereof to or from a farm (including nurseries and aquacultures),
  • Used within 150 air miles of the person's farm,
  • Not used in the operations of a common or contract motor carrier, and
  • Used in nursery or agricultural operations.

If the farmer, his spouse and their children, parents on both sides, brothers and sisters on both sides and their spouses are operating a truck-tractor semi-trailer combination or combinations and meet the above criteria, they are also exempted from the CDL Program. However, these drivers must be 21 years of age and the vehicle must have farm plates.

Fire Fighting Equipment Operators:

Because fire fighting organizations have extensive initial training and re-training requirements for their equipment operators, Illinois waives CDL requirements for operators of fire fighting equipment that is owned or operated by or for a government agency. The fire fighting and other emergency equipment must have audible and visual signals. The equipment must either be necessary for the preservation of life or property or used in the execution of emergency governmental functions that are normally not subject to general traffic rules and regulations.

Recreational Vehicle Operators:

Illinois waives CDL requirements for drivers of a recreational vehicle that is operated primarily as family/personal conveyance for recreational purposes. This includes motor homes and travel trailers.

Military Vehicle Operators:

United States Department of Defense military vehicles being operated by non-civilian personnel for military purposes are exempt from obtaining a CDL. This includes any operator on active military duty, members of the Reserves, National Guard, personnel on part-time training and National Guard military technicians.

Township Employees:

An employee of a township or road district with a population of less than 3,000, who operates a vehicle within the boundaries of the township or road district for the purpose of removing snow or ice from a roadway by plowing, sanding or salting, is waived from the CDL requirements. This exemption is allowed providing that the employee who ordinarily operates the vehicle and holds a properly classified CDL is unable to operate the vehicle or is in need of additional assistance due to a snow emergency.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

CDL computerized tests, road and skills tests are only administered in the English language. To request an oral CDL computerized test at a facility equipped with automated written testing equipment, you must contact the facility manager.

Written Tests:

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. There are seven different CDL written tests. An applicant is required to correctly answer 80% of the questions to pass the written CDL tests. CDL applicants who fail any CDL examination three times will be required to wait 30 days from the date of the 3rd failure to retake the test. Three additional failures (a total of 6 failures) of the same test will result in a 90 day waiting period. Three additional failures (a total of 9 failures) of the same test after the 90 day waiting period will result in a one year waiting period from date of last fail. The waiting periods only apply to the test(s) failed three times. Out of state applicants must take all CDL written tests to secure an Illinois CDL.

The CDL knowledge tests include:

  • The 30-question general knowledge test is required for all applicants wishing to obtain a CDL.
  • The Air brakes test is required if the vehicle is equipped with air brakes. There are 25 questions.
  • The 20-question combination vehicle test is required if you wish to drive combination vehicles.
  • The passenger endorsement test is required if you will drive a vehicle designed to carry 16 or more passengers (including the driver). There are 20 questions.
  • The hazardous materials test is required if you wish to operate a vehicle transporting hazardous material that requires placarding. There are 30 questions. NOTE: The hazardous materials endorsement written test must be successfully completed each time you renew your CDL.
  • The tank endorsement test is required to operate a vehicle designed to carry any liquid or gaseous material within a tank that is permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle or the chassis. There are 20 questions.
  • The 20-question doubles/triple endorsement test is required if you will operate double or triple trailers.

Road/Skills Test:

After passing the required written tests, an applicant may be required to complete the CDL skills tests which consist of a vehicle pre-trip inspection test, basic controls skills test and a road test.

  • The pre-trip inspection is a walk-around inspection to make sure the vehicle is safe to operate. You will not be required to crawl under the vehicle or reach into the engine.
  • The basic control skills test contains four maneuvers: straight line backing, stop at line, measured right turn and angled backing/simulated docking.
  • The road test is administered on an established drive route. The examiner scores you on specific driving maneuvers, use of mirrors, blinkers, clutch (if applicable), and your handling of the vehicle in traffic.

Each portion of the skills tests must be taken in a vehicle representative of the license classification you wish to obtain. Proof of insurance is required for every vehicle before the performance tests may be administered.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

You must be 18 years of age to apply for a CDL license to drive in-state and age 21 to cross state lines.

The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

CDL fees are as follows:

New Applicants (Applicants not possessing a Class A, B, or C Illinois CDL): $60.00
(An additional $5.00 fee will be added for applicants renewing an L or M license)

Applicants possessing a non-CDL license upgrading to a CDL: $50.00

School Bus CDL: $20.00

Add/Change endorsement or restriction on existing CDL: $5.00

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Illinois CDL Manual: http://www.sos.state.il.us/departments/drivers/cdl/cdl.html

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Illinois Driver Services: http://www.sos.state.il.us/home.html

Illinois Department of Transportation: http://www.dot.state.il.us/




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Indiana

Indiana's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Indiana and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have an Indiana Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

Where Can I Get More Information?

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles: http://www.in.gov/bmv/

Indiana Department of Transportation: http://www.ai.org/dot/




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Iowa

Iowa's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Iowa and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have an Iowa Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds. The holder of a Class A license, which includes any appropriate endorsements, may operate all vehicles included in Class B, C, and D (Operator License).

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds. Class B licensees, with appropriate endorsements, may drive all vehicles in Class C or D.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification and may drive all vehicles in Class D.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Requirements For A CDL?

Applicants must be at least 18.

The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

CDL fees are as follows:

$16 for a two-year CDL

$40 for a five-year CDL

Plus applicable endorsement or restriction fees

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Iowa CDL Manual: http://www.iamvd.com/ods/cdl.htm

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Iowa Office of Driver Services: http://www.iamvd.com/ods/index.htm

Iowa Department of Transportation: http://www.dot.state.ia.us/

Iowa Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau: http://www.state.ia.us/government/dps/gtsb/index.htm




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Kansas

Kansas's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Kansas and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Kansas Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Kansas CDL Manual: http://www.ksrevenue.org/dmvcomhandbook.htm

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Kansas Department of Revenue: http://www.ksrevenue.org/vehicle.htm

Kansas Department of Transportation: http://www.ksdot.org/




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Kentucky

Kentucky's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Kentucky and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Kentucky Commercial Driver License (CDL).

Classifications are:

Class A CDL

For any combination of vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the GVWR of the vehicle(s) being towed is more than 10,000 pounds.

Class B CDL

Any straight truck with two or more axles and a GVWR of 26,0001 pounds or more;

Any vehicle with two or more axles and a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, pulling a vehicle with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less;

A single vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) if the GVWR is 26,001 pounds or more.

Class C CDL

Any vehicle with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds transporting hazardous materials for which placarding is required

Any vehicle transporting 16 or more passengers, including the driver, with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests in written or oral form, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. The Kentucky State Police will give the knowledge test at the local exam stations. Please check with your local Circuit Court Clerk regarding the days and times the examiner will be available.

All CDL applicants must take the 50-question general knowledge test. You must get at least 80% correct to pass. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

For each test, 80 percent of the questions must be answered correctly to pass. If you fail a test, you must wait 24 hours to take the test again.

After you pass the written test(s) and a vision test, a CDL instruction permit will be issued that is valid for six months. A permit may only be renewed once in the two-year period.

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. You may schedule a road skills test with the Kentucky State Police 10 days after the permit has been issued. Skills tests can be taken indefinitely as long as the CDL instruction permit is valid. If you do not successfully pass the road skills test by the expiration of your CDL instruction permit renewal, you will need to reapply. All fees and written tests will be required prior to a new permit being issued.

There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed. You must furnish a vehicle for the test.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

To make application for a CDL, you must provide a valid DOT medical certificate and complete an application at your local Circuit Court Clerk's office.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

CDL fees are as follows:

  • CDL application: $24
  • CDL instruction permit: $11
  • Original CDL: up to $40 (prorated fees according to current operator's expiration)
  • "S" Restriction (school bus/mass transit/non-profit): Original CDL, $20
  • Adding endorsements or dropping restrictions: $5 for tanker, doubles/triples, and hazardous materials. The new license will cost $10, for a total of $15.

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Kentucky CDL Manual: http://www.kentuckystatepolice.org/pdf/CDL%20Driver%20Manual.pdf

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Kentucky Division of Driver Licensing: http://www.ador.state.al.us/motorvehicle/index.html

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: http://www.kytc.state.ky.us/




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Louisiana

Louisiana's CDL Test Requirements and CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Louisiana and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Louisiana Commercial Driver License (CDL).

  1. Any vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more.
  2. A vehicle pulling a trailer if the trailer has a (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or more.
  3. A vehicle designed to carry 16 or more passengers including the driver.
  4. A vehicle hauling hazardous materials in amounts required to be placarded.

NOTE: A vehicle or combination of vehicles which is in excess of 10,000 pounds but less than 26,001 pounds may require a Class D Chauffeur's license.

There are 3 basic classes of CDL:

  • Class A (Combination vehicles) – Any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the GVWR of the vehicle(s) being towed is in excess of 10,000. NOTE: If the vehicle being towed has a GVWR of 10,001 lbs. or more, Class A is required. However, you will be required to test in a combination that has a GVWR of 26,001 lbs. or more.
  • Class B (Heavy Straight vehicles) – Any single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more OR any such vehicle towing a trailer/vehicle not in excess of 10,000 pounds.
  • Class C (Small vehicles) - Any single vehicle or combination of vehicles (that meets neither the definition of Class A or Class B) but that is either designed to transport 16 or more passengers including the driver OR is used.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL. All testing, as well as license issuance, must be done at the same location.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

After you pass the written test(s), a CDL Instructional Permit will be issued. The Permit allows you to practice with a CDL driver who has the same or higher class of license. The CDL Permit is required to take the skills test. Schedule the skills test with a certified third party tester.

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed. Upon successful completion of the skills test, you will return to the OMV office to have the CDL issued.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Office Of Motor Vehicles?

Visit a full service CDL issuing office with the following items:

  • Your current, valid driver's license
  • Your social security card or letter from SSA specifying your SSN
  • Your completed, long form physical with medical examiners certificate
  • Proof of insurance on your personal vehicles
  • $15 CASH for the application fee

Note: You have 6 months from the day you pay your $15 application fee to have all of your written tests completed, your skills test completed and the license issued. Failure to do so will result in a forfeiture of the application fee and your tests will be considered expired.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

The costs may vary slightly.

  1. A CDL physical is required (fee set by the medical examiner).
  2. $15 application fee.
  3. Third Party Skills test is $60 (if you provide the vehicle). NOTE: Cost for rental of a vehicle, discretion of the Tester/Examiner.
  4. License fee - $41 ($51 if you reside in Orleans Parish).
  5. Additional endorsements - $5 each, except for motorcycle which is $8.
  6. Applicable parish fee - not to exceed $3.

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Louisiana CDL Manual: http://www.dps.state.la.us/omv/driversguide.html

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles: http://omv.dps.state.la.us/

Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development: http://www.dotd.state.la.us/




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Maine

Maine's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Maine and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Maine Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to be at least 21 years old and pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

Where Can I Get More Information?

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles: http://www.state.me.us/sos/bmv/

Maine Department of Transportation: http://www.maine.gov/mdot-stage/




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Maryland

Maryland's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Maryland and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Maryland Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why. The time limit for the pre-trip inspection is 45 minutes.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done. The time limit for each maneuver is 10 minutes.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

You must be 18 to obtain a learner's permit for a CDL Intrastate and 21 years of age for Interstate. You must also have a full driver's license (not a motorcycle license).

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Motor Vehicle Administration?

Bring your Maryland driver license, social security card, and a valid U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) physical card or federal/MVA waiver.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

The fee for a CDL is $50.00.

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Maryland CDL Manual: http://www.mva.state.md.us/DriverServ/APPLY/commercial.htm

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration: http://www.mva.state.md.us/

Maryland Department of Transportation: http://www.mdot.state.md.us/

Maryland State Highway Administration: http://www.sha.state.md.us/




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Massachusetts

Massachusetts' CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Massachusetts and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Massachusetts Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds. The holder of a Class A license, which includes any appropriate endorsements, may operate all vehicles included in Class B, C, and D (Operator License).

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds. Class B licensees, with appropriate endorsements, may drive all vehicles in Class C or D.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification and may drive all vehicles in Class D.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. There are fifty questions on the general knowledge test. You must get 40 correct to pass. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

After you pass the written exam and a vision test, you will receive a CDL permit. The permit is valid for two years. You may only operate a vehicle for the same class permit that you hold. You must be accompanied by a licensed operator who holds a valid license with the correct class and endorsements for the vehicle you are operating. Your permit must be with you while you are operating the vehicle.

Once you have passed the written permit test, you must call the RMV Telephone Center (http://www.mass.gov/rmv/info/phone.htm) to schedule your road test. All road tests must be scheduled by the phone center. You may not make a road test appointment in person.

A road test is always required when applying for a CDL license with any selected endorsement. If you already have a Class D license and are applying for a Class C license, a road test is required only if you selected passenger and/or air brakes endorsements.

For all road tests, you are required to supply a properly equipped, legally registered and insured vehicle that has a valid inspection sticker. It also must be of the proper type and manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating for the class license you are applying for. It must pass a safety check by the examiner. If the vehicle is rented, you must provide the rental agreement and written permission on the rental company's letterhead authorizing use of the vehicle for a road test.

To take the road test, you must bring a sponsor who has a valid CDL license with the proper endorsements for the vehicle class you are using. Your sponsor must also have a current DOT Medical Certificate.

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

You must be at least 18 years old to obtain in intrastate ( Massachusetts) CDL, and at least 21 years old to obtain an interstate CDL.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Registry Of Motor Vehicles?

To apply for your CDL permit, bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

Bring the following to the road test: a completed application for your license, your valid CDL permit, your current driver license, a valid DOT medical certificate or medical waiver, your sponsor, and a properly equipped vehicle with proof of insurance coverage.

After you pass the road test, bring the stamped, signed permit and the appropriate fees to any RMV full service office to get your license.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

The fee for the general knowledge test is $30. Endorsement tests that you take at the same time as the general knowledge are $10 each. If you take a CDL endorsement test after the CDL permit or license has been issued, the fee will be $30. Each additional endorsement test you take during this same transaction will be an additional $10.

Where Can I Get More Information?

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles: http://www.mass.gov/rmv/

Massachusetts Executive Office of Transportation and Construction: http://www.mass.gov/eotc/

Massachusetts Highway Department: http://www.mass.gov/mhd/home.htm




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Michigan

Michigan's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

Any Michigan resident who intends to operate the following commercial vehicles is required to have a commercial driver license:

  • Single Vehicles - Having a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR)* of 26,001 pounds or more.
  • Combination Vehicles - Towing a trailer or other vehicles with a GVWR of 10,001 pounds or more when the gross combination weight rating (GCWR)** is 26,001 pounds or more.
  • Vehicles:
  • Designed to transport 16 or more people (including the driver)
  • Carrying hazardous materials in amounts requiring placarding

A Michigan resident needs a CDL with the appropriate group designation as follows:

  • Group A to operate a combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more including a towed trailer or vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of more than 10,000 pounds. Group A allows you to operate Group B and Group C vehicles.
  • Group B to operate a single vehicle having a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more. Group B allows you to operate Group C vehicles.
  • Group C to operate a single vehicle having a GVWR under 26,001 pounds or a vehicle having a GVWR under 26,001 pounds towing another vehicle or trailer and carrying hazardous materials on which a placard is required, or designed to transport 16 or more passengers including the driver.

*Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the recommended maximum total weight of the vehicle and load as designated by the vehicle manufacturer. The GVWR label is usually found on the driver side doorpost of the power unit and on the front left side of the trailer. The GVWR should not be confused with the elected gross vehicle weight (GVW) which is declared by the vehicle owner for registration purposes.

**Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) means the value specified by the manufacturer as the maximum loaded weight of a combination vehicle. In the absence of a label, the GCWR can be calculated by adding the GVWR of the power unit to the GVWR of the vehicle(s) or trailer(s) being towed.

In addition to the appropriate CDL group designation, endorsements are required for the following:

  • T - Double or Triple Trailers : (Triple trailer combinations are not permitted in Michigan.)
  • P - Passenger : For vehicles which are designed to carry 16 or more people (including the driver).
  • N - Tank Vehicles : For vehicles designed to haul liquids or liquefied gases in bulk in permanently mounted tanks or portable tanks rated at 1,000 gallons or more.
  • H - Hazardous Materials : To carry hazardous materials in amounts requiring placards.
  • X - This X-endorsement code will appear on the license instead of the H and N codes when an applicant receives both the tank and hazardous materials endorsements.

A special seasonal restricted CDL is available for agribusiness employees operating Group B and C vehicles on routes within 150 miles from the place of business. Buses and school buses cannot be operated with this restricted license. Although CDL knowledge and skills tests are not required, applicants must have a clean driving record for the prior three-year period.

This CDL must be applied for each calendar year. Within a one-year period, applicants can choose to have the restricted CDL valid for 180 days from date of issue or valid for the seasonal periods from April 2 through June 30 and September 2 through November 30. The restricted CDL permits the driver to transport the following limited amounts of hazardous materials without the H or X endorsements:

  • Diesel motor fuel in quantities of 1,000 gallons or less.
  • Liquid fertilizers in quantities of 3,000 gallons or less.
  • Solid fertilizers that are not transported with any organic substance.

The following people do not need a CDL:

  • Active Duty Military (including National Guard) with military licenses operating military vehicles.
  • Police Officers and Firefighters : Meeting approved training standards and operating authorized emergency vehicles.
  • Farmers : Operating vehicles within a 150-mile radius of their farm.
  • An F-endorsement is needed by farmers operating combination vehicles whose towing vehicle has a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more. A knowledge test, but no skills test, is required to obtain the F-endorsement.
  • Farmers who carry hazardous materials in amounts requiring placarding while operating combination vehicles whose towing vehicle has a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or a single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, need a CDL with a hazardous materials endorsement.
  • Individuals : Operating motor homes or other vehicles used exclusively to transport personal possessions or family members, for non-business purposes.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

After you pass the required knowledge and vision tests, you will receive a CDL Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP). This allows you to practice driving under supervision of a driver who has a CDL for the type of vehicle you wish to drive. A CDL TIP is also required for taking the CDL skills tests.

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed. You must take the skills tests through an approved third party tester. Third party testers are public and private agencies authorized by the state to conduct CDL skills tests.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

All three tests are conducted during the same testing session, in the order listed above. Each test must be passed before continuing on to the next test. A failure of any one of the skills tests terminates testing. On subsequent attempts, you must start over from the beginning of the test (vehicle inspection test) regardless of which test you previously failed. You are allowed one (1) attempt per day.

Once you have passed your CDL skills tests, you must return to the Secretary of State branch office to pay a correction fee to add CDL privileges to your license and receive your CDL.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

You must be age 21 to drive a commercial motor vehicle across state lines (interstate). You may drive a commercial motor vehicle in Michigan (intrastate) at age 18. Note to transport hazardous materials in a quality that required the vehicle be marked or placarded, you must be age 21 or older.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of State?

Bring your driver license and proof of your social security number (social security card, payroll check stub or W-2 Form).

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

The fee for a CDL is $25. Endorsements are $5 each.

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Michigan CDL Manual: http://www.michigan.gov/documents/cdlmanul_16090_7.pdf

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Michigan Department of State: http://www.michigan.gov/sos/0,1607,7-127-1627---,00.html

Michigan Department of Transportation: http://www.michigan.gov/mdot/

Michigan Center for Truck Safety: http://www.truckingsafety.org/




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Minnesota

Minnesota's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

You must have a commercial driver license (CDL) to operate any of the following commercial motor vehicles (CMV) in Minnesota:

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

You must be at least 18 years of age to apply for a CDL for intrastate (within Minnesota) driving and at least 21 years of age to apply for a CDL for interstate driving.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

Fees are as follows:

Class A $37.50

Under 21 (Intrastate Only) Class A $17.50

Class B $29.50

Class C $22.50

Additional School Bus Processing Fee $ 4.00

Examination Fee, Each Endorsement $ 2.50

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Minnesota CDL Manual: http://www.dps.state.mn.us/dvs/DLTraining/DLManual/ManualLangChoice.htm

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services: http://www.dps.state.mn.us/dvs/

Minnesota Department of Transportation: http://www.dot.state.mn.us/




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Mississippi

Mississippi's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Mississippi and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Mississippi Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds. The holder of a Class A license, which includes any appropriate endorsements, may operate all vehicles included in Class B, C, and D (Operator License).

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds. Class B licensees, with appropriate endorsements, may drive all vehicles in Class C or D.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification and may drive all vehicles in Class D.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, your social security card, and proof of residence.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

Application Fee: $25.00

CDL Permit: $10.00

CDL License: $40.00

Endorsements: $ 5.00 each

Where Can I Get More Information?

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Mississippi Department of Public Safety: http://www.dps.state.ms.us/dps/dps.nsf/divpages/hp2drivermap?OpenDocument




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Missouri

Missouri's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Missouri and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Missouri Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Missouri CDL Manual: http://www.dor.mo.gov/mvdl/drivers/

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Missouri Department of Revenue Motor Vehicles and Driver Licensing: http://www.dor.mo.gov/mvdl/drivers/

Missouri Department of Transportation: http://www.modot.state.mo.us/

Missouri Division of Motor Carrier and Railroad Safety: http://www.carrier.state.mo.us/




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Montana

Montana's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Montana and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Montana Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

Where Can I Get More Information?

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Montana Department of Justice, Motor Vehicle Division: http://doj.state.mt.us/driving/default.asp

Montana Department of Transportation: http://www.mdt.state.mt.us/




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Nebraska

Nebraska's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Nebraska and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Nebraska Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Nebraska CDL Manual: http://www.dmv.state.ne.us/examining/

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles: http://www.dmv.state.ne.us

Nebraska Department of Transportation: http://www.dor.state.ne.us/

Nebraska State Patrol: http://www.nsp.state.ne.us/




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Nevada

Nevada's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Nevada and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Nevada Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

You must be at least 21 years of age to be issued a CDL to operate a commercial motor vehicle in interstate commerce. Applicants between 18 and 20 years of age may be granted a CDL for intrastate commerce, but this age group will not be granted the privilege to transport passengers for hire or transport hazardous materials requiring placards.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

Fees are as follows:

CDL Instruction Permit (with knowledge test): $56.25

Original CDL or Transfer (with all tests): $86.25

Add CDL Endorsement: $15.00 per endorsement plus $2.25 photo fee

Driving Skills Test to add or remove a restriction or endorsement: $31.00

Any CDL Change of Information: $11.25

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Nevada CDL Manual: http://nevadadmv.state.nv.us/nvdl.htm

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles: http://www.ador.state.al.us/motorvehicle/index.html

Nevada Department of Transportation: http://www.nevadadot.com/




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New Hampshire

New Hampshire's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in New Hampshire and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a New Hampshire Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

You must be at least 18 years of age to drive intrastate (in New Hampshire only) and at least 21 years of age to drive interstate.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the New Hampshire CDL Manual: http://www.nh.gov/safety/dmv/

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

New Hampshire Department of Motor Vehicles: http://www.nh.gov/safety/dmv/

New Hampshire Department of Transportation: http://www.state.nh.us/dot/




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New Jersey

New Jersey's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in New Jersey and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a New Jersey Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds. The holder of a Class A license, which includes any appropriate endorsements, may operate all vehicles included in Class B, C, and D (Operator License).

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds. Class B licensees, with appropriate endorsements, may drive all vehicles in Class C or D.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification and may drive all vehicles in Class D.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. You can take the test at any Regional Service Center or Driver Test Center. An appointment is not necessary, but you must be there at least one hour before closing time. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

If you pass the written test, you will receive a permit for practice driving. You can usually take the road test ten days after passing the knowledge test. The road test can be scheduled at a Road Test Center or Regional Service Center. If you fail the written test, you may retake it after seven days.

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. Each part of the test takes about twenty minutes. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed. You must provide a vehicle to use during the test. The vehicle must have a current inspection sticker, and you must have the current registration document and a current insurance card (unless covered by P.U.C. or federal DOT regulations) for the vehicle.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

The fee for a Commercial Driver License is $42.00 plus $2.00 per endorsement.

Where Can I Get More Information?

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission: http://www.state.nj.us/mvc/index.shtml

New Jersey Department of Transportation: http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/

Port Authority of New York and New Jersey: http://www.panynj.com/




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New Mexico

New Mexico's CDL Test Requirements and CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in New Mexico and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a New Mexico Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

If you fail a knowledge test, you may retake it after seven days. If you fail a knowledge test three times, you must wait six months to retake it.

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. The skills tests generally take about two hours. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

Fees for the skills tests are as follows:

$50 per hour at a central location if the applicant furnishes the vehicle.

$75 per hour at a non-central location if the applicant furnishes the vehicle.

If the applicant is unable to provide a vehicle for testing, the vehicle may be rented at an additional cost.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

Where Can I Get More Information?

To view the New Mexico CDL Manual: http://www.state.nm.us/tax/pubs/cdlman.htm

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

New Mexico Division of Motor Vehicles: http://www.state.nm.us/tax/mvd/mvd_home.htm

New Mexico Department of Transportation: http://www.nmshtd.state.nm.us/


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New York

New York's CDL Test Requirements and CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in New York and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a New York Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

After you pass the written test(s), you must p repare for your road test and practice with a supervising driver. The supervising driver must have a driver license that is valid to drive the commercial motor vehicle that you use for practice.

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed. You must make an appointment and prepay the $40 fee to take the skills tests. If you do not pass the skills tests, you must pay a $40 fee to reschedule the test.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

If you pass the road test, the license examiner will give you a temporary CDL that is valid for 10 days. You can pick up your CDL five to seven days after the day of your road test.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

You must be at least 18 years of age for a Class B or C license. You must be at least 21 years of age for a Class A license.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

Fees are as follows:

Application fee: $10

Skills tests: $40

The DMV cannot calculate your CDL fee until you apply for the CDL at the DMV office. The amount of the CDL fee that you pay depends on the expiration date and the class of your current driver license, and the date that you receive your CDL.

Where Can I Get More Information?

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

New York State Department of Motor Vehicles: http://www.nysdmv.com

New York State Department of Transportation: http://www.dot.state.ny.us/

New York Metropolitan Transportation Council: http://www.nymtc.org/

New York State Thruway: http://www.thruway.state.ny.us/

Port Authority of New York and New Jersey: http://www.panynj.com/


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North Carolina

North Carolina's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in North Carolina and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a North Carolina Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

At age 18, you may obtain a CDL for use inside North Carolina only. You will not be eligible for the Hazardous Materials Endorsement. You must be 21 to obtain a CDL for state-to-state driving and/or a Hazardous Materials Endorsement.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

Schedule of fees:

Application fee: $20.00

CDL fee: $10.00/year

CDL Endorsements $ 1.25/year

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the North Carolina CDL Manual: http://www.ncdot.org/dmv/driver_services/commercialtrucking/cdlhandbook/

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles: http://www.ncdot.org/dmv/

North Carolina Division of Highways: http://www.doh.dot.state.nc.us/

North Carolina Department of Transportation: http://www.ncdot.org/

University of North Carolina Institute for Transportation Research and Education: http://itre.ncsu.edu/




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North Dakota

North Dakota's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in North Dakota and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a North Dakota Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds. The holder of a Class A license, which includes any appropriate endorsements, may operate all vehicles included in Class B, C, and D (Operator License).

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds. Class B licensees, with appropriate endorsements, may drive all vehicles in Class C or D.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification and may drive all vehicles in Class D.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

Some drivers of farm vehicles do not need a CDL. Contact the North Dakota Department of Transportation for further information.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

You must be at least 18 years of age to obtain a CDL. This CDL will be valid only in North Dakota. You must be at least 21 years of age to obtain a CDL that is valid for interstate driving. School bus drivers must be at least 18 years of age.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card. If your legal name has changed, you will need to bring the original legal name change documents (marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree).

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the North Dakota CDL Manual: http://www.state.nd.us/dot/toc.html

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

North Dakota Driver’s License and Traffic Safety: http://www.state.nd.us/dot/dlts.html

North Dakota Department of Transportation: http://www.state.nd.us/dot/




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Ohio

Ohio's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Ohio and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have an Ohio Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds. The holder of a Class A license, which includes any appropriate endorsements, may operate all vehicles included in Class B, C, and D (Operator License).

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds. Class B licensees, with appropriate endorsements, may drive all vehicles in Class C or D.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification and may drive all vehicles in Class D.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

The law exempts these categories from the CDL:

  • A "Farm Truck.” "Farm Truck" means a truck controlled and operated by a farmer for use in the transportation to or from a farm, for a distance of no more than one hundred fifty miles, of products of the farm, supplies for the farm, or other purposes connected with the operation of the farm. The truck must be operated in accordance with division 4506.02(B2) and is not used in the operation of a motor transportation company or private motor carrier.
  • Fire equipment for a fire department, volunteer or non-volunteer fire company, fire district, or joint fire district.
  • A public safety vehicle used to provide transportation or emergency medical service for ill or injured persons. "Public safety vehicle" has the same meaning as in divisions (E)(1) and (3) of section 4511.01 ORC.
  • A recreational vehicle. "Recreational vehicle" includes every vehicle that is defined as a recreational vehicle in section 4501.01 ORC, and is used exclusively for purposes other than engaging in business or profit.
  • A commercial motor vehicle within the boundaries of an eligible unit of local government*, if the person is employed by the eligible unit of local government and is operating the commercial motor vehicle for the purpose of removing snow or ice from a roadway by plowing, sanding, or salting, but only if either the employee who holds a commercial driver's license and ordinarily operates a commercial vehicle for these purposes is unable to operate the vehicle, or the employing eligible unit of local government determines that a snow or ice emergency exists that requires additional assistance.

*eligible unit of local government means a village, township, or county that has no population of not more than 3,000 persons according to the most recent federal census.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

A CDIP (CDL Instruction Permit) may be issued to an individual who holds a valid automobile or classified driver's license. The holder of a CDIP may drive a commercial motor vehicle on a highway only when accompanied by the holder of a commercial driver's license, valid for the type of vehicle driven, who occupies a seat beside the individual, for the purpose of giving instruction in driving the commercial motor vehicle. The CDIP is valid for six months and may be renewed one time only.

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. These tests will take up to ninety minutes. You will need to provide a vehicle appropriate to the class of license you apply for, including a bus (designed to carry 16 or more persons including the driver) if applying for a passenger endorsement.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

To get a CDL or CDL instruction permit (CDIP) you are required to be at least 18 years of age and have a valid Ohio State driver's license.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license and your social security card.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

To obtain a CDL you will need to pay the appropriate fees.

  • $10 for the pre-trip inspection portion of the test;
  • $10 for the off-road maneuvering portion of the test;
  • $30 for the on-road portion of the test.

The CDL applicant who schedules an appointment with the Ohio State Highway Patrol may have to pay an appointment fee of $50 at the time he schedules the appointment.

These fees are in addition to any fees for your basic driver's license.

First CDL License: $42.00

CDIP fee: $25.50.

Where Can I Get More Information?

Digest of Ohio Motor Vehicle Laws: http://bmv.ohio.gov/mvdigest.html

To download the Ohio CDL Manual: http://www.bmv.ohio.gov/cdl.html

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles: http://bmv.ohio.gov/bmv.html

Ohio Department of Transportation: http://www.dot.state.oh.us/




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Oklahoma

Oklahoma's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Oklahoma and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have an Oklahoma Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Oklahoma CDL Manual: http://www.dps.state.ok.us/dls/

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Oklahoma Department of Public Safety: http://www.dps.state.ok.us

Oklahoma Department of Transportation: http://www.okladot.state.ok.us/




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Oregon

Oregon's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

What Do I Need To Qualify For A CDL?

The general qualifications to be eligible for a Commercial Drivers License (CDL) are:

  • Meet the qualifications for or have a Non-Commercial Class C driver license. This means you must pass the non-commercial Class C tests before applying for a Class B CDL.
  • Be at least 18 years of age (21 years of age for interstate operation of commercial vehicles).
  • Indicate on the Commercial Driver License Application that you have at least one year's driving experience in at least a non-commercial Class C vehicle.
  • Pass a CDL general knowledge test and any required CDL endorsement knowledge tests.
  • Pass a vision screening.
  • Possess a valid medical card or medical waiver.

What Do The Different License Classes Mean?

A Class A CDL authorizes the operation of any vehicle or combination of vehicles, except the person may not operate any vehicle for which an endorsement is required unless the person obtains the endorsement.

In addition to the above requirements to qualify you must pass the following tests:

  • written combination vehicles endorsement test
  • pre-trip inspection test
  • behind-the-wheel drive test in a Class A commercial vehicle.

These tests may be conducted by DMV or a third party tester.

A Class B CDL authorizes the operation of any single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 or more pounds, or any such vehicle towing a vehicle not in excess of 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). A person may not operate any vehicle for which an endorsement is required unless the person obtains the endorsement.

To qualify you must meet the qualifications above, then pass a:

  • behind-the-wheel drive in a Class B commercial vehicle
  • pre-trip inspection test

These tests may be conducted by DMV or a third party tester.

A Class C CDL authorizes the operation of:

  • any vehicle that is designed to transport 16 or more persons, including the driver, if the gross vehicle weight rating is less than 26,001 pounds and the person has a passenger endorsement;
  • any vehicle used in the transportation of hazardous materials, in quantities that require placarding by law, if the gross vehicle weight rating is less than 26,001 pounds and the person has a hazardous materials endorsement;
  • any vehicle that is owned or leased by, or operated under contract with a mass transit district or a transportation district when the vehicle is actually being used to transport passengers for hire, regardless of the number of passengers, if the gross vehicle weight rating of the vehicle is less than 26,001 pounds and the person has a passenger endorsement.

To qualify you must meet the qualifications above, then pass a:

  • written passenger and/or hazardous materials endorsement test
  • behind-the-wheel drive test in a Class C commercial vehicle.

These tests may be conducted by DMV or a third party tester.

What Are The Tests Like?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. You may go to any full-service DMV office to take your knowledge test. Knowledge tests are conducted at all full service offices without an appointment. Many offices do not conduct knowledge tests after 4:00 p.m. weekdays and after 11:00 a.m. on Saturday. However, go early enough to give yourself plenty of time to take the test before the office closes. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

If you fail your first, second, or third CDL knowledge test, you have to wait until at least the next day to try again. If you fail a fourth, fifth, or subsequent test, you must wait 28 days to try again.

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

Note: DMV requires that you pay for tests in advance. If you are taking a test, please bring separate payment (for example, two checks): one for your test(s) and one for issuing your license or Instruction Permit. If you bring one check and fail your test, DMV can not refund cash for more than $50 and for an amount that is more than half the amount of the check or for any amount of a third party check. Therefore, for your test fees, DMV may ask you for another form of payment (for example, a second check or cash).

Fees are as follows:

Regular Class C driver license, (non-commercial) $54.50 (8-yr)

Commercial Driver License (CDL), Class A, B or C $35 (4-yr) $70 (8-yr)

(applicant already has Oregon license)

Commercial Driver License (CDL), No Oregon License $124.50 (8-yr)

CDL Instruction Permit $18

CDL Written Tests $10

(except combination vehicles)

CDL Combination Vehicles Knowledge test No Fee

CDL Drive Test $70

CDL Drive Test to Remove Air Brake Restriction $56

Oregon CDL Certificate of Test Completion $40

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Oregon CDL Manual: http://www.odot.state.or.us/dmv/forms/manuals_forms.htm

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services: http://www.odot.state.or.us/dmv/

Oregon Department of Transportation: http://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/




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Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Pennsylvania and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Pennsylvania Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

As each knowledge test is passed, you will be issued a learner's permit, which allows you to begin practicing the driving skills. You must hold the commercial learner's permit for at least 30 days for the class of vehicle you intend to drive before the skills test can be taken.

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card. If your legal name has changed, you will need to bring the original legal name change documents (marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree).

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

CDL fees are as follows:

Initial Permit and Four-Year License without Hazmat (assumes 1 permit) $71.00

Initial Permit and Two-Year License without Hazmat (age 65+/assumes 1 permit) $40.50

Initial Permit and Four-Year License with Hazmat (assumes 2 permits) $86.00

Initial Permit and Two-Year License with Hazmat (age 65+/assumes 2 permits) $55.50

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Pennsylvania CDL Manual: http://www.dmv.state.pa.us/drivers_manual/index.shtml

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Pennsylvania Driver and Vehicle Services: http://www.dmv.state.pa.us

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation: http://www.dot.state.pa.us/

Penn State Center for Intelligent Transportation Systems: http://www.engr.psu.edu/www/centers/cits.html




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Rhode Island

Rhode Island's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Rhode Island and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Rhode Island Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL. CDL tests are given in the Pawtucket branch only.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. You must have in your possession your valid RI license and CDL permit. In addition, you must supply the proper class of vehicle for your road test, and this vehicle must be properly registered, inspected and insured. Road tests are given by and must be scheduled with the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI). To book an appointment you need to call the Quonset Point facility, which is where the road test will be given, at (401) 294-5433. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

You must have a valid RI license for at least one year and be at least 21 years old.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card. If your legal name has changed, you will need to bring the original legal name change documents (marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree).

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

Fees are as follows:

Application fee: $10

Test fee: $10 per written test

Permit fee: $10

Road test fee: $55

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Rhode Island CDL Manual: http://www.dmv.state.ri.us/manuals/

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Rhode Island Department of Motor Vehicles: http://www.dmv.state.ri.us/

Rhode Island Department of Transportation: http://www.dot.state.ri.us/




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South Carolina

South Carolina's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in South Carolina and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a South Carolina Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

You must be at least 18 years of age to drive within the state of South Carolina and 21 years of age for interstate driving.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

The CDL application fee is $15.

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the South Carolina Truck Manual: http://www.scdmvonline.com/DLmanual.aspx

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles: http://www.scdmvonline.com

South Carolina Department of Public Safety: http://www.scdps.org/

South Carolina Department of Transportation: http://www.dot.state.sc.us/




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South Dakota

South Dakota's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in South Dakota and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a South Dakota Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the South Dakota CDL Manual: http://www.state.sd.us/dps/dl/Online_Manuals/OM_Main.asp

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

South Dakota Office of Driver Licensing: http://www.state.sd.us/dps/dl/

South Dakota Department of Transportation: http://www.sddot.com/




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Tennessee

Tennessee's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Tennessee and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Tennessee Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Safety?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

Where Can I Get More Information?

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Tennessee Department of Safety: http://www.tennesseeanytime.org/tndlr/

Tennessee Department of Transportation: http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/




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Texas

Texas's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Texas and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Texas Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

In addition to testing, all first time original applicants must visit a local Texas Driver License office and present and do the following:

  • Present proof of identity.
  • Present proof of social security number.
  • Present proof of Texas vehicle registration and liability insurance if you own a vehicle.
  • Application must include photograph and thumbprints; however, thumbprints are not included on the driver license.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

Fees are as follows:

Original Commercial Driver License: $60

CDL Examination: $10 per exam

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Texas CDL Manual: http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/administration/driver_licensing_control/dlindex.htm

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Texas Department of Public Safety: http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/

Texas Department of Transportation: http://www.dot.state.tx.us/

Texas Transportation Institute: http://tti.tamu.edu/

University of Texas at Austin Center for Transportation Research: http://www.utexas.edu/research/ctr/




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Utah

Utah's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Utah and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Utah Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

You must be at least 18 years old and have at least two years of driving experience. If you are under 21 years old, you will be restricted to intrastate operation and will not be able to apply for Hazardous Materials, Passenger, or School Bus endorsements.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

To apply for a Commercial Driver License, present your current driver license, your Social Security card, and a current DOT medical card or Medical Long Form.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

CDL testing fees are:

Skills test: $50

General knowledge test: $30

Endorsement tests, except Tanker: $5 per test

Tanker endorsement test: $7.50

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Utah CDL Manual: http://driverlicense.utah.gov/handbook/

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Utah Department of Safety Driver License Division: http://driverlicense.utah.gov/index.html

Utah Department of Transportation: http://www.sr.ex.state.ut.us/




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Vermont

Vermont's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Vermont and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Vermont Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Vermont Motor Carrier Safety Regulations: http://www.aot.state.vt.us/dmv/documents/Manuals/CommercialVehicle/MotorCarrierSafetyRegs.pdf

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles: http://www.aot.state.vt.us/dmv/dmvhp.htm

Vermont Agency of Transportation: http://www.aot.state.vt.us/




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Virginia

Virginia's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Virginia and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Virginia Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds. The holder of a Class A license, which includes any appropriate endorsements, may operate all vehicles included in Class B, C, and D (Operator License).

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds. Class B licensees, with appropriate endorsements, may drive all vehicles in Class C or D.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification and may drive all vehicles in Class D.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

Note: If you wish to operate a school bus designed to carry fewer than 16 occupants (including the driver), you do not need to obtain a commercial driver's license. However, you will need to take the commercial driver and school bus tests to obtain the school bus endorsement on your driver's license. You will be restricted to driving a bus designed to carry fewer than 16 passengers. This restriction will be printed on your license.

Commercial driver's license requirements don't apply to:

  • Operators of emergency vehicles, such as firefighters
  • Active duty military personnel operating military vehicles
  • Operators of farm vehicles when:
  • Used by farmers
  • Used to move farm goods, supplies or machinery to or from their farm
  • Not used as a common or contract motor carrier, and
  • Used within 150 miles of the farm
  • Operators of vehicles, such as recreational vehicles and rental moving vans, used only for personal use

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

You may take the CDL knowledge exam(s) only once per business day. If you fail any knowledge exam, you must pay a $2 re-examination fee if you retake the exam within 15 days.

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed. The approximate time required for the three-part skills test is 90 minutes.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

You must be at least 18 years of age to hold a CDL. Under federal law, you must be a commercial driver at least 21 years of age to:

  • Drive across state lines
  • Transport hazardous materials or
  • Transport interstate freight (e.g., mail) within the state

If you are under 21 years of age, you may be issued a CDL with an "L" restriction. This restriction indicates that your driving privileges are valid only in Virginia.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

To apply for a CDL or CDL instruction permit, you must show two proofs of identity (only one primary document if you are under age 19), one proof of legal presence, one proof of Virginia residency, and proof of your complete social security number. All CDL applicants must certify that they are in compliance with the federal or Virginia motor carrier safety regulations or that they do not have to comply with them. Refer to the Code of Federal Regulations for an explanation of these requirements.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

Normally your Virginia CDL expires on your birthday when you reach an age that is divisible by five -- 20, 25, 30, 35, etc. Your first license will be valid for three to seven years, depending on your age when the license is issued. The CDL licensing fee is $8.00 per year, so your fee will range from $24.00 to $56.00. Endorsement(s) cost an additional $1.00 per year. A CDL instruction permit costs $3.00.

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Virginia CDL Manual: http://www.dmv.state.va.us/webdoc/citizen/drivers/index.asp

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles: http://www.dmv.state.va.us/index.asp




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Washington

Washington's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

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Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Washington and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Washington Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds. The holder of a Class A license, which includes any appropriate endorsements, may operate all vehicles included in Class B, C, and D (Operator License).

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds. Class B licensees, with appropriate endorsements, may drive all vehicles in Class C or D.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification and may drive all vehicles in Class D.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

The law exempts three groups of drivers from the CDL:

  • Farmers transporting farm equipment, supplies, or products to or from a farm in a farm vehicle are exempted provided a farmer or a farm employee operates the vehicle. (Products include Christmas trees or wood products transported by vehicles 40,000 pounds GVW or less.)
  • Fire-fighters/Law Enforcement Personnel operating emergency equipment are exempted provided they have completed the Emergency Vehicle Accident Prevention Program (EVAP) and they carry a card certifying completion.
  • Recreational Vehicle Operators are exempted when driving RV's for non-commercial purposes. This includes two axle rental trucks, and horse trailers for non-commercial purposes.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

Knowledge testing is first come first served, so drivers should allow at least an hour at the licensing office to complete the application and the test. Driver licensing offices do not begin any CDL testing after 3:30 p.m., so applicants are encouraged to arrive in time to complete the application and begin the test by that time. You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any. (The $10 test fee is valid for a single test attempt but can apply to several different tests.)

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

If you fail a test, you can retake it the following day. Additional testing fees will apply.

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed. A vehicle may not be used for testing purposes if it is not legally licensed, has defective equipment or does not meet necessary state or federal guidelines. The skills tests take approximately 90 minutes. Note that since Washington State has adopted a seatbelt violation as a primary offense, the seat belt must be worn as designed during all elements of the commercial tests (whenever the vehicle moves); failure to wear a seatbelt will be considered an automatic disqualification.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

To obtain a CDL or CDL instruction permit (CDIP) you must be at least 18 years of age and have a valid Washington State driver license. You must be at least 21 years of age to apply for an interstate CDL.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Licensing?

Bring your current driver license and your social security card.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

To obtain a CDL you will need to pay the appropriate fees.

  • $10 testing fee for the knowledge test;
  • $10 fee for the CDIP;
  • $30 Commercial Drivers License fee;
  • $75 maximum per test skill test fee.

This charge is for one test only; retests will cost up to an additional $75. These fees are in addition to any fees for your basic driver license.

What Is A CDIP?

A Commercial Driver Instruction Permit (CDIP) allows the holder to drive a commercial motor vehicle on a highway only when accompanied by the holder of a commercial driver license, valid for the type of vehicle driven, who occupies a seat beside the individual, for the purpose of giving instruction in driving the commercial motor vehicle. The CDIP is valid for six months and may be renewed one time only.

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Washington CDL Manual: http://www.dol.wa.gov/ds/guide.htm

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Washington Department of Licensing: http://www.dol.wa.gov/

Washington State Department of Transportation: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/




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West Virginia

West Virginia's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in West Virginia and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a West Virginia Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds. The holder of a Class A license, which includes any appropriate endorsements, may operate all vehicles included in Class B, C, and D (Operator License).

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds. Class B licensees, with appropriate endorsements, may drive all vehicles in Class C or D.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification and may drive all vehicles in Class D. A Class C license must have either a passenger or a hazardous material endorsement or both.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

If you fail any portion of the knowledge examination, you must wait 7 days before you may retest. You may test 3 times on the original fees paid.

After you pass the knowledge test(s) and a vision test, you will be issued a Commercial Driver Instruction Permit. The CDL instruction permit will be issued for a period not to exceed 6 months. Only one renewal or re-issuance may be granted within a two-year period from the issue date. The holder of a CDL instruction permit may drive a commercial motor vehicle of the type for which the permit is valid only when accompanied by the holder of a commercial driver license valid for the type of vehicle who occupies a seat beside the individual for the purpose of giving instruction or testing.

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed. The examiner cannot give the skills test unless your vehicle is in safe condition and legally equipped. Your vehicle must first be checked to make sure it complies with registration, vehicle inspection and equipment laws.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

A CDL instruction permit may only be issued to an individual who is at least 18 years of age and has held an operator or junior operator license for at least 2 years.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

CDL testing fee: $25.

Endorsement fees: $10 each.

Skills test: $75

Applicable license fees: $8.75-$61.25

Where Can I Get More Information?

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles: http://www.wvdot.com/6_motorists/dmv/6g_dmv.HTM

West Virginia Department of Transportation: http://www.wvdot.com/




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Wisconsin

Wisconsin's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Wisconsin and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Wisconsin Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds.

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Office Of Drivers And Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

Fees are as follows:

CDL Instruction Permit: $20 (6 months)

Skills Exam: $20

School Bus Skills Exam: $15

Original CDL: $64 (prorated for time remaining on existing Wisconsin DL)

School Bus Endorsement: $5

Class Upgrades: $5 (one or more classes)

Endorsement Upgrades: $5 (each)

Where Can I Get More Information?

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Wisconsin Drivers and Vehicles: http://www.dot.wisconsin.gov/drivers/index.htm

Wisconsin Department of Transportation: http://www.dot.state.wi.us/




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Wyoming

Wyoming's CDL Test Requirements and
CDL Endorsement Test Info

Choose a different state

Do I Need A Commercial Driver License?

If you live in Wyoming and drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must have a Wyoming Commercial Driver License (CDL).

CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds. The holder of a Class A license, which includes any appropriate endorsements, may operate all vehicles included in Class B, C, and D (Operator License).

CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds. Class B licensees, with appropriate endorsements, may drive all vehicles in Class C or D.

CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification and may drive all vehicles in Class D.

CDL Endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.

What Tests Do I Need To Take?

You must take knowledge tests and skills tests to earn your CDL.

Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test. The table below will tell you what additional tests you must take, if any.

Test Name Take If...
Passenger Transport ...you want to drive a bus
Air Brakes ...your vehicle has air brakes
Combination Vehicles ...you want to drive combination vehicles
Hazardous Materials ...you want to haul hazardous material or waste in amounts which require placarding
Tankers ...you want to haul liquids in bulk
Doubles/Triples ...you want to pull double or triple trailers

Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills tests. There are three types of general skills that will be tested: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

  1. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection: You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why.
  2. Basic Vehicle Control: You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.
  3. On-road Test: You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, up and down grades, and single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

What Are The Other Requirements For A CDL?

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations require drivers to pass a physical examination once every 2 years. The main physical requirements include good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without glasses or corrective lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. Drivers must not be colorblind.

What Should I Bring To The Department Of Motor Vehicles?

Bring your current driver license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.

What Fees Will I Have To Pay?

Fees are as follows:

Skills Test: $40

Commercial Driver Instruction Permit: $20

Commercial Driver License: $25

Where Can I Get More Information?

To download the Wyoming CDL Manual: http://dot.state.wy.us/web/driver_services/index.html

For federal requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyprogs/cdl.htm

For medical requirements: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/391.43.htm

Wyoming Driver Services: http://dot.state.wy.us/web/driver_services/index.html

Wyoming Department of Transportation: http://wydotweb.state.wy.us/




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