What is a CDL and Why Do You Need One?

A CDL is a commercial driver’s license. It is required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to operate commercial motor vehicles of a certain size transporting goods across state lines.

What Driving Jobs Require a CDL?

Many jobs that require the operation of a large vehicle or vehicle moving certain goods will require special licensing. Some of these jobs include:

• Delivery driver
• Dump truck driver
• Freight driver
• School bus driver
• Tow truck driver

What are the Different CDL Classifications?

Classifications of CDL licenses depend on the type of vehicle you are driving and the materials you are transporting.

There are three primary CDL classifications:

1. Class A CDL – Operators with this classification can operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) like tractor-trailers (e.g., semi trucks), truck-trailer combination vehicles, tanker motor vehicles, flatbeds, and livestock-carrying vehicles as well as most Class B and C vehicles.
2. Class B CDL – Operators with this classification can operate CMVs like straight trucks, large buses like school buses, segmented buses, box trucks, and dump trucks as well as certain Class C vehicles.
3. Class C CDL – Operators with this classification can operate CMVs like double trailers, triple trailers, certain buses, hazmat motor vehicles, and tankers.

Most long-haul trucking jobs require a Class A CDL.

7 Basic Steps to Get a CDL License

While the process may vary slightly by state and exactly which type of vehicle will be driven, those interested in getting their CDL need to do the following:

1. Meet the Basic Requirements

• Age Requirements – CDL applicants must be 21 years of age. While some state laws require drivers to be 18 years of age only, federal law dictates that drivers must be at least 21 to transport materials across state lines.
• Medical Requirements – Applicants must pass a DOT physical, or physical examination from the Department of Transportation, and obtain a DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate. Medical certification can only come from a licensed medical examiner.
• Residency Requirements – Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident, although some exemptions apply for people with the right visas or Canadian and Mexican citizens with non-domiciled CDLs.
• Driving Requirements – Applicants must have a good driving record. Drivers with a history of drunk driving, reckless driving, and the like will not be eligible.

2. Get Your State’s CDL Manual

These manuals prepare CDL applicants for taking the general knowledge test (written test) that’s required to get a CLP. The written test usually has three sections: general knowledge, combination vehicles, and air brakes.

3. Get a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

CDL permits are required for any first time applicants and require passing a three-part written test. You must have this permit at least 14 days before taking any CDL skills tests. Application fees vary by state.

4. Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

People applying for Class A and B licenses, as well as those seeking certain endorsements, must complete a CDL training program at an approved truck driving school.

The Training Provider Registry from the FMCSA provides a list of all eligible CDL schools.

5. Take the CDL Skills Test

Also known as the road test or driving test, CDL applicants need to prove their skills on the road by taking a certifying test at an approved CDL test location. Tests have three parts: the vehicle inspection, basic controls, and road test.

Most states offer appointment-only driving tests.

6. Get the Right Endorsements

Transporting certain materials can require special endorsements. Hazardous materials, for example, require a hazardous materials endorsement. To get this endorsement, applicants need to pass a written hazmat test and clear TSA screening.

7. Pass the Background Check

Most employers conduct a background check for drivers within the first 30 days of employment. Background checks can include:

• Motor vehicle records (MVRs)
• Criminal history check
• DOT drug and alcohol screening

CDL FAQs

What is the fastest way to get a CDL?

The fastest way to get a CDL is to contact your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or CDL training school and ask for specific instructions on where to get a CDL manual, where to complete ELDT, and more. Since each state has slightly different requirements and steps for getting certified, asking the authorities at your DMV or driving school for clarification can ensure that you don’t miss any steps, fees, or paperwork.

How much does a CDL cost?

CDL costs vary by state, endorsements, and the specific training school someone attends. That said, the total cost of getting a CDL—including the license fee itself, permit fees, application fees, and driving school tuition—can range from under $1,000 to over $5,000.

Many community colleges offer CDL-approved driving programs at more affordable rates than private driving schools.

What do you need to obtain a CDL?

CDL requirements vary slightly by state, but generally include the following:

• Being at least 21 years old (for hazardous materials and interstate travel)
• Being a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident (certain exceptions apply)
• Already having a valid non-commercial driver’s license
• Having a CLP for at least 14 days before taking the CDL skills test
• Passing all vehicle inspections
• Passing all background and medical checks
• Taking a written and driving test
• Getting all necessary endorsements, such as hazmat endorsements if carrying hazardous materials
• Paying all relevant fees
• Filing all the proper paperwork as required by federal and state law
• Retaking the DOT physical at least every 24 months, or as required by other federal and state laws or company guidelines

What are the age requirements for obtaining a CDL?

People who want to travel across state lines or transport hazardous materials must be at least 21 years old.

How can I save money after getting my CDL license?

You got your CDL—now what?

Fuel, vehicle maintenance, and more are all common expenses for truckers. Saving money on these expenses and more is easy with Motor Transport Alliance. Our fuel card program partners with hundreds of Love’s Travel Stops across the country, unlocking benefits like fuel discounts, maintenance discounts, and more. See how our fuel card for truckers can empower your career and grant you some serious savings.