You need a commercial driver's license to drive a vehicle in the United States.Contact the state Department of Motor Vehicles nearest you to get a commercial driver's license.There are slightly different procedures in each state.You will need to pass a skills test, complete a written application, and maintain a learner's permit before you can apply for a commercial driver license.
Step 1: Check your state's requirements.
Each state has its own requirements for commercial drivers.If you plan to drive across state lines, you must be at least 18 years old.If you work for a transportation or trucking company that is involved in interstate commerce, you need to be 21.You have to be a resident of the state for several months before you can apply for a commercial driver's license.
Step 2: The type of vehicle you want to drive is up to you.
There are three different classes.Depending on the work you want to do, you can get different certifications or endorsements.The class and endorsements you need will determine what you will be tested on and how much it will cost.If you already have a job lined up, your employer will be able to tell you what class and endorsements you need.
Step 3: You can get a copy of the manual in your state.
You can get a copy of the manual at your local office.Digital copies of the manual are available for download on some websites.You have to take a written knowledge test when you apply for a CDL.The manual contains all the information that you will be tested on.You may be able to get sample questions.Don't memorize the answers, these can help guide your study.Different questions will be asked on your test.
Step 4: You need to complete your application.
If you want to apply for a commercial driver's license in your state, you must complete a specific form.You can download the form online and complete it ahead of time.You have to fill out the form in person.Documentation may be required to prove parts of the application.Before you start filling it out, read the instructions carefully and look through the entire document.A 10-year history record check is part of the application.You have to provide information about the other states in which you were licensed to drive.
Step 5: Required documents should be gathered.
You need proof of residency, citizenship status, and identification to apply for a CDL.Depending on the type of license and endorsements you need, other medical certifications or background documentation may be required.Visit your state's website to find out what documents you need to bring with you.Call the Department of Motor Vehicles if you have questions about a document.It will save you a lot of time if you have all the right documents.Fees are charged by all states for issuing a driver's license.You may have to pay individual fees at different times.You can pay the application, written test, and permit fee all at the same time.
Step 6: You have to turn in your application.
You can turn in your application at your local office.If you live in a larger metropolitan area, you may be able to schedule an appointment so you don't have to wait as long.You have to bring proof of your identity and residency.Different states may accept different types of documentation.You can check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles.They usually have a list of accepted documents on their website.If you're applying for a new driver's license in California, you have to schedule an appointment.
Step 7: Pass the test.
Before you can get a commercial driver's license, you need to know the rules of the road.The general written test is taken by all applicants.An additional written test may be required for some endorsements, such as driving a school bus or transporting hazardous materials.It will be scored after you've completed your test.You will be issued a permit if you earn a passing score.You can take the test again if you don't pass.You may have to pay an additional fee if you want to take the test again.
Step 8: Begin the background check process.
If you plan to drive across state lines, or will be transporting hazardous materials, you may be required to complete a background check with the federal Transportation Security Administration.You can schedule an appointment by going to the universalenroll.dhs.gov and selecting the online option.There is a fee for a background check.You will have to be fingerprints.
Step 9: You can practice with a driver.
You can't drive solo if you have a commercial driving permit.You need a supervising driver with the same class and type as you want.You have to fill out a form if you want to take the skills test.You'll get a copy of the form when you get your permit if this is a requirement for you.
Step 10: You have to complete any required training.
Before you can take the skills test for your commercial driver's license, you must complete a state-approved training or certification class.You will be advised by the staff of classes required for you.It's possible that you need to complete a training or certification class if you're getting a CDL.Some states require specialized training for people who want to drive a school bus or carry hazardous materials.
Step 11: You can schedule a skills test.
Once you feel comfortable behind the wheel, you should take the skills test to get your full license.You may not be able to schedule an appointment for a while.Many states require you to drive on your permit for a certain period of time.Some states may require you to log a certain number of hours on your permit before you can take a skills test.You can use a third-party examiner service in some states.You can check the state's website if you want to know if this option is available.
Step 12: You need to pass the skills test.
You have to pass a driving skills test before you can get a full CDL.Depending on the type of vehicle you are driving and the operations you perform, you will be tested on your skills.You need to take the skills test in the exact vehicle that you will be driving.This also includes air brakes.If you want to drive a vehicle with a manual transmission, you need to take a skills test in it.If you don't pass the skills test the first time around, you may be able to take it again.You can take the skills test up to three times in California.Discuss your options with your examiner.
Step 13: Receive your qualification.
After you pass the skills test, your examiner will issue you a commercial driver's license.When and how you will receive your official license varies from state to state.You can pick it up the next day in some states.Others send it to you.Make sure your name is spelled correctly and that all the information on your license is correct when you get it.Errors should be changed immediately or they could cause problems later on.You may have to wait a day or two before you can begin work because federal regulations no longer permit states to issue temporary CDLs.