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Earning a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is the first major milestone to start a career in the trucking and transportation industry. Whether you plan to operate long-haul tractor-trailers, local delivery trucks, passenger buses, or specialized commercial vehicles, a CDL is the credential that unlocks those opportunities. And because every state follows federal FMCSA guidelines while also enforcing its own rules, the process requires understanding both sets of requirements.
If you’re exploring a career as a commercial driver, you may be wondering what qualifications you need, how the training works, and what the testing process looks like.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know before applying and walk you through the complete step-by-step process of obtaining your Commercial Driver’s License. Consider this your roadmap as you embark on a rewarding career behind the wheel.
How to obtain a CDL?
Before you start your CDL application, you must clearly understand your state’s specific rules and requirements. Key factors include minimum age eligibility, required identification and residency documents, and applicable application fees. Since regulations vary from state to state, your first step should be to get a copy of your state’s Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Manual.
You can download the manual directly from your state DMV website or pick up a printed copy from your local DMV office. This manual is your primary resource for understanding state-specific procedures, preparing for written and skills tests, and ensuring you meet all requirements needed to obtain your CDL.
Step 1: Meet the CDL license requirements
Before applying for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), you must meet both federal and state eligibility standards. These rules ensure that CDL holders are medically qualified, professionally trained, and capable of safely operating large commercial vehicles. While individual states may have small variations, the core requirements are consistent nationwide. Getting these basics in place first makes the rest of the CDL process much smoother.
Basic eligibility and age requirements for a CDL
To qualify for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), you must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old to drive commercial vehicles within your state (intrastate).
- Be 21 years or older to drive commercial vehicles across state lines (interstate).
- Be 21 years or older to transport hazardous materials, even if the driving occurs within one state.
- Hold a valid non-commercial driver’s license.
- Be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or have valid work authorization.
Most states allow CDL applicants to begin at age 18, but many trucking companies prefer hiring drivers who are 21 or older. This is simply because federal law restricts anyone under 21 from interstate travel, which significantly limits available job opportunities.
While individual states may have small variations, the primary standards come from federal FMCSA regulations. Once you earn your CDL in any state, it is valid nationwide.
Medical requirements for a CDL
All CDL applicants must pass a DOT physical exam and obtain a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Form MCSA-5876) from a licensed healthcare professional listed on the FMCSA National Registry. The exam evaluates your physical fitness and ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle. It typically includes checks for:
- Adequate vision (minimum 20/40 in each eye, with or without corrective lenses)
- Hearing ability
- Healthy blood pressure and overall cardiovascular condition
- Physical capacity to perform job-related tasks
- No medical conditions that could cause sudden incapacitation (for instance, uncontrolled epilepsy)
- No signs of drug or alcohol misuse
A medical certificate is typically valid for up to 24 months, but drivers with certain medical conditions may be issued a certificate with a shorter renewal period.
Drug and alcohol testing for a CDL
CDL drivers are subject to federal drug and alcohol testing requirements, which help ensure safety in the transportation industry. Testing may happen during:
- Pre-employment screening
- Random testing throughout employment
- Post-accident investigations
- Reasonable-suspicion testing
All CDL holders are included in the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse, a national database that records violations and allows employers to check a driver’s compliance history.
Step 2: Choose the type of CDL license
The next step is to determine which type of commercial vehicle you want to operate and the kind of driving career you plan to pursue. There are three main CDL license types, each with optional endorsements for specialized vehicles like school buses, tankers, and combination tractor-trailers. Depending on what you choose, each class or endorsement may require additional written exams, skills tests, or both. If you skip required tests, your CDL may include restrictions that limit which vehicles you can legally operate.
Some CDL types and endorsements also require Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) before you can take the skills test—or, in the case of the HazMat endorsement, before taking the written exam. ELDT ensures that new commercial drivers meet federal safety, knowledge, and competency standards.
Step 3: Obtain your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
After you meet the basic requirements, the next step is to obtain your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). This allows you to practice driving a commercial vehicle on public roads while being supervised by a licensed CDL holder seated beside you.
To get your CLP, you must pass the written knowledge tests for your CDL class and any endorsements you plan to add. These tests ensure you understand essential safety rules, vehicle operation, and commercial driving regulations. Your state will also review your driving record for the past 10 years across all U.S. states and the District of Columbia to confirm you meet federal eligibility standards.
Applicants must also show they are medically qualified to operate a commercial vehicle, which usually requires completing a DOT physical and obtaining a valid DOT medical card at the time of CLP examination.
Step 4: Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
If you are applying for a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time and your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) was issued on or after February 7, 2022, you must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) before taking the CDL skills test. ELDT combines structured classroom instruction and hands-on, behind-the-wheel experience under the supervision of a qualified CDL instructor. You can complete ELDT through an accredited truck driving school, a community college program, or any FMCSA-approved training provider.
You can find approved training providers through the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. After you complete the training, your provider will upload your certification directly to the Registry. You can then confirm your training status using the “Check My Record” tool.
Regardless of the path you choose, ELDT ensures you develop essential commercial driving skills, including:
- Conducting thorough vehicle inspections
- Maneuvering, shifting, backing, and parking
- Managing space, speed, and following distance
- Driving at night and in challenging weather conditions
- Handling emergencies and unexpected situations
While self-study can help you prepare, most employers strongly prefer—or require—drivers who complete a certified CDL training program.
Step 5: Pass the knowledge and skills test
After holding your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) for at least 14 days and completing any required Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), you’re eligible to take the CDL skills test.
The skills test uses a vehicle that matches the CDL class you’re seeking and usually includes three parts:
- Vehicle inspection (pre-trip) test — Demonstrate a complete pre-trip inspection by identifying key safety components, spotting potential problems, and explaining their function.
- Basic controls test — Show control of the vehicle in low-speed maneuvers such as straight-line backing, offset backing, parallel parking, and alley docking.
- Road test — Drive in normal traffic to demonstrate safe driving behaviors: lane changes, turns, signaling, speed control, intersection and railroad crossing procedures, and hazard awareness.
While some states offer checklists or training aids for preparation, these do not guarantee a passing score—you must demonstrate actual, hands-on competence. Test format and passing criteria can vary slightly by state, so refer to your state CDL manual for exact requirements.
After passing all parts of the test, return to the licensing counter to finish your paperwork. Depending on your state, you may receive your CDL immediately or have it mailed to you—verify all personal and license details before you leave to avoid delays or correction fees.
Step 6: Provide the necessary documents for your CDL application
Before you submit your CDL application, you’ll need to gather the required documents. Although states may have slight variations, every CDL applicant must provide proof of identity, residency, legal presence, and Social Security number.
To verify your identity and legal presence, most states accept documents such as a valid U.S. passport, birth certificate, military ID, or a permanent resident card. You’ll also need to provide your Social Security number, usually by presenting your Social Security card or an official document that clearly displays it.
You must also show proof of residency. Commonly accepted documents include utility bills, bank statements, lease agreements, or mortgage paperwork. Make sure the address on these documents matches the address you list on your CDL application- states are strict about address consistency.
In addition, you must already hold a valid non-commercial driver’s license. This confirms that you have basic driving experience before moving into commercial vehicle operation.
Because acceptable documents differ slightly between states, it’s important to check your local DMV’s requirements ahead of time. Preparing the correct paperwork in advance helps avoid delays and keeps your CDL application process moving smoothly as you work toward starting your commercial driving career.
Step 7: Pay the final fee and receive your CDL
Once you’ve passed all required tests and submitted your paperwork, the last step is to pay the CDL licensing fee at your local DMV or testing center. After your payment is processed, your state will issue your Commercial Driver’s License. Some states print the CDL on-site, while others mail it to the address on your application.
Remember that your CDL must be renewed periodically, and renewal timelines vary by state. Make sure you keep track of your license expiration date and complete your renewal on time, and any lapse can interrupt your ability to legally operate commercial vehicles.
How to renew your CDL license?
To renew your CDL, start by checking your license expiration date. Most states require renewal every five to eight years, and renewing on time is essential to avoid any interruption in your commercial driving privileges. The renewal process typically involves completing a CDL renewal application (either online or at a DMV office), presenting your current CDL, and providing updated proof of identity and residency. You must also ensure your DOT medical certification is valid, since an expired medical card can delay or block your renewal.
Certain endorsements have additional renewal requirements. For example, drivers with a Hazmat endorsement may need to undergo a TSA background check, fingerprinting, or retake specific knowledge tests before renewing. Once you’ve submitted the required documents and paid the renewal fee, your state’s DMV will process your renewal and issue your updated CDL.
Conclusion: Unlock new opportunities with your CDL license
Earning your Commercial Driver’s License is a major achievement—and an important first step toward a stable, rewarding, and opportunity-filled career in the transportation industry. By understanding your state’s requirements, choosing the right CDL class, completing training, passing your tests, and submitting the proper documents, you’re well on your way to becoming a skilled and confident commercial driver.
Getting a CDL isn’t just about meeting regulations—it’s about building a foundation for a long-term career with growth, flexibility, and the chance to explore the open road. Whether you plan to drive locally, regionally, or across the country, your CDL opens the door to countless paths in trucking, logistics, and beyond.
With dedication, preparation, and the right training, you’re ready to take the wheel. Your journey starts now—safe driving and good luck on the road ahead!
