How to GetYour CDL
Your complete guide to obtaining a Commercial Driver's License. From requirements to training options, we'll walk you through every step of the process.
CDL Types & Requirements
Choose the right CDL class for your career goals
Class A CDL
Required for combination vehicles (tractor-trailer)
- Semi-trucks
- Tractor-trailers
- Tankers
- Flatbeds
Class B CDL
Required for single vehicles over 26,001 lbs
- Straight trucks
- Buses
- Box trucks
- Dump trucks
Class C CDL
Required for passenger vehicles and hazmat
- Passenger vans
- Small buses
- Hazmat vehicles
The CDL Process
Follow these 6 steps to get your Commercial Driver's License
Meet Basic Requirements
Ensure you meet age, residency, and driving record requirements
- Be at least 18 years old (21 for interstate)
- Have a valid driver's license
- Clean driving record (no major violations)
- U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Pass background check
Get Medical Certification
Complete DOT physical exam and obtain medical certificate
- Schedule DOT physical exam
- Pass vision and hearing tests
- Complete drug screening
- Obtain medical certificate
- Submit to DMV
Study for Written Tests
Prepare for CDL knowledge tests and endorsements
- Study CDL manual
- Take practice tests
- Learn traffic laws
- Study vehicle inspection
- Prepare for endorsements
Pass Written Tests
Take and pass all required knowledge tests
- General knowledge test
- Air brakes test (if applicable)
- Combination vehicles test (Class A)
- Endorsement tests (Hazmat, Tanker, etc.)
- Obtain learner's permit
Complete Training
Enroll in CDL training program or practice with qualified driver
- Choose training program
- Learn vehicle operation
- Practice backing and parking
- Master pre-trip inspection
- Complete required hours
Pass Road Test
Take and pass the CDL skills test
- Pre-trip inspection test
- Basic vehicle control test
- Road driving test
- Pass all test components
- Receive CDL license
CDL Endorsements
Additional certifications to expand your opportunities
Hazmat (H)
Transport hazardous materials
- Background check
- Fingerprinting
- Knowledge test
Tanker (N)
Transport liquid cargo in tankers
- Knowledge test
Passenger (P)
Transport passengers
- Knowledge test
- Skills test
School Bus (S)
Drive school buses
- Knowledge test
- Skills test
- Background check
Doubles/Triples (T)
Pull multiple trailers
- Knowledge test
Air Brakes
Operate vehicles with air brakes
- Knowledge test
Training Options
Choose the training path that works best for you
CDL Training Schools
Professional training programs with comprehensive curriculum
- Structured learning
- Experienced instructors
- Job placement assistance
- Modern equipment
- Higher cost
- Fixed schedule
- Location dependent
Community Colleges
Affordable training through local community colleges
- Lower cost
- Financial aid available
- Flexible schedules
- Quality education
- Longer wait times
- Limited availability
- Basic equipment
Company-Sponsored Training
Training provided by trucking companies
- No upfront cost
- Guaranteed job
- Comprehensive training
- Mentorship
- Contract commitment
- Lower pay initially
- Limited choice
Private Instruction
One-on-one training with experienced CDL holder
- Flexible schedule
- Personalized attention
- Lower cost
- Local convenience
- Quality varies
- Limited resources
- No job placement
- Equipment availability
Ready to Start Your CDL Journey?
Get your CDL and open the door to exciting career opportunities in trucking. While we do not offer training, we can help you find a training program that works for you.