What is a cdl driver license, and how do you get one?
To get a CDL, pass a DOT physical, obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) from your state DMV, complete FMCSA-mandated Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a registered provider, hold the CLP at least 14 days, then pass the three-part skills test. The CDL framework is federal (FMCSA), but your state issues the license, typically $75–$300 all-in for state fees, with driving school the main cost. CDL drivers earn a $58,640 median with +4% projected growth.
- Pass a DOT physical with an FMCSA-registered medical examiner.
- Pass the knowledge tests and get your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP).
- Complete ELDT theory and behind-the-wheel training (FMCSA Training Provider Registry).
- Hold the CLP 14+ days, then pass the 3-part skills test (pre-trip, basic control, road).
- Pay your state's issuance fee and add endorsements (H, N, T, P, S, X) as needed.
How to get a cdl driver license
- 1
Pass a DOT physical
See an FMCSA-registered medical examiner for the DOT physical ($80-$150). You'll carry the medical certificate through every later step, and it must stay current, typically renewed every 24 months.
- 2
Get your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)
Pass the general-knowledge written test (plus combination and air-brake tests for Class A) at your state driver licensing agency and pay the permit fee ($10-$90 by state). The CLP lets you drive a commercial vehicle with a CDL holder in the passenger seat, and must be held at least 14 days before the skills test.
- 3
Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
Enroll with a school on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry for the mandatory theory and behind-the-wheel curriculum, required since February 7, 2022 for all first-time Class A/B applicants. Full-time programs run 3-8 weeks; the provider reports your completion electronically to FMCSA.
- 4
Pass the three-part skills test
Take the skills test in the class of vehicle you'll drive: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and the on-road drive. States administer it directly or through approved third-party examiners, with fees up to about $250. Fail one segment and you retest only that segment in most states.
- 5
Pay the issuance fee and add endorsements
Pay your state's CDL issuance fee and add endorsements, knowledge tests for N and T, knowledge plus the $86.50 TSA threat assessment for H or X, and knowledge, skills and ELDT for P or S. Renew on your state's normal license cycle and keep your DOT medical certificate current.
CDL Driver license requirements
The CDL framework is set federally by the FMCSA and applied by every state, so the core requirements are the same nationwide. To qualify for a Class A or Class B CDL you generally need:
Age
18+ for intrastate driving in most states; 21+ to cross state lines (interstate), haul hazmat, or drive for most major carriers.
Medical certification
A DOT physical from an FMCSA-registered medical examiner, renewed every 24 months (or more often with conditions like hypertension).
ELDT training
Mandatory since Feb 7, 2022 for first-time Class A/B CDLs and first H/P/S endorsements, theory plus behind-the-wheel from a Training Provider Registry school.
Clean driving record
A valid non-commercial license, no disqualifying offenses (DUI, leaving the scene), and a Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse registration for interstate drivers.
How much a cdl driver license costs
State fees are the small part of a CDL; ELDT training at a registered school is the real investment. Typical national ranges:
State permit, test and issuance fees are modest; CDL school ($3,000-$8,000) is the main cost, and many carriers reimburse or run paid ELDT academies.
The cdl driver license exam
There is no national code exam. You take state-administered knowledge tests based on your state's CDL manual (which follows the FMCSA model), typically requiring 80% to pass, then the federal three-part skills test: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and the on-road drive. The knowledge tests are closed-book, and skills testing is done by the state driver licensing agency or an approved third-party examiner. Before you can take the Class A or B skills test you must show ELDT completion from a school on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.
How long it takes to get licensed
The 14-day CLP holding period and skills-test scheduling set the floor; most drivers go from first knowledge test to CDL in hand in 6-12 weeks.
CDL Driver license types: the full ladder
The CDL is not a journeyman ladder. It is a set of federal vehicle classes (A, B and C) plus endorsements, all issued by your state driver licensing agency. There is no separate business licence: to run trucks for hire you need FMCSA operating authority and a USDOT number, not a contractor licence.
Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)
Lets you practice on public roads with a CDL holder beside you. Requires the knowledge tests and DOT medical certificate; must be held 14 days before the skills test.
Class C CDL
Vehicles under 26,001 lbs that require a CDL because they carry 16+ passengers or placarded hazardous materials.
Class B CDL
Single vehicles of 26,001+ lbs GVWR (box trucks, dump trucks, buses) towing under 10,000 lbs. Common for local and municipal driving jobs.
Class A CDL
Combination vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001+ lbs towing over 10,000 lbs, the tractor-trailer license, and the class with the widest job market and highest pay.
N / T endorsements
N (tank vehicles) adds a knowledge test for liquid loads; T (doubles/triples, Class A only) adds a knowledge test for multiple trailers.
H / X endorsements
H (hazardous materials) requires a knowledge test plus a TSA security threat assessment ($86.50, fingerprints); X combines tank and hazmat in one endorsement.
P / S endorsements
P (passenger, 16+ occupants) and S (school bus) each require knowledge and skills tests, and, since 2022, ELDT for first-time applicants.
Class B vs Class A: cdl driver license
CDL Driver license reciprocity between states
A CDL is valid nationwide, so there is no reciprocity to worry about while driving. When you move, federal rule requires transferring your CDL to your new state of residence (generally within 30-60 days, state-dependent); the new state re-issues it without re-testing in most cases, though HazMat endorsements require a fresh TSA threat assessment and some states re-test. Confirm transfer rules with the destination state's driver licensing agency.
CDL Driversalary & job outlook
Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers earn a median of about $58,640 per year ($28.19/hour), and specialised endorsements (tanker, hazmat, doubles) typically pay a premium. Employment is projected to grow 4%, with roughly 237,600 openings a year. See the full cdl driver salary guide for pay by state, city and experience level.
CDL Driver license requirements by state
The CDL standards are federal, but every state driver licensing agency sets its own fees, test scheduling and transfer rules. Open your state's full guide.
Each state's CDL is issued by its own driver licensing agency (DMV, DPS or BMV) under the federal FMCSA framework. Fees and skills-test scheduling vary by state and can change, confirm with your state agency before applying.
Browse all state guides
CDL Driver license FAQs
FMCSA, Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) · FMCSA, Commercial Driver's License Program (49 CFR Part 383) · FMCSA Training Provider Registry · TSA, HazMat Endorsement Threat Assessment Program · U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2025 (53-3032) · BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook (Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers). Requirements and fees are set per state and change, confirm with your state board before applying.
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