The Basic Requirements to Hold a CDL

To get a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), you must be at least 18 years old to drive commercial vehicles within your state, or 21 years old to drive across state lines. You need a valid regular driver's license first — you cannot jump straight to a CDL. You must also have a Social Security number, pass a medical examination by a certified medical examiner, and hold a valid medical certificate (called a Medical Certificate or Medical Examiner's Certificate) that you carry with you while driving.

Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will check your driving record. If you have certain violations on your record — like a DUI, reckless driving, or multiple traffic convictions within a specific time period — you may be disqualified. Each state sets its own rules about what disqualifies you, so check with your state DMV before you invest time and money in training.

You must also pass a background check. Certain criminal convictions, particularly those involving drugs or violence, can make you ineligible. Some states also disqualify drivers who have been convicted of human trafficking or certain sexual offenses.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 18 years old (21 to drive interstate) and hold a valid regular driver's license before you can get a CDL.
  • A medical examination and valid Medical Certificate are required; you cannot drive commercially without one.
  • Your driving record matters — serious violations like DUI, reckless driving, or multiple traffic convictions within a set period can disqualify you permanently or temporarily.
  • You must pass a background check, and certain criminal convictions will make you ineligible to hold a CDL.
  • Each state has different rules about disqualifying offenses, so verify your specific state's requirements before enrolling in training.

The Medical Examination and Certificate

The medical exam is not optional and not something your regular doctor can perform. You must see a certified Medical Examiner listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) National Registry. This examiner checks your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall physical condition. They also review your medical history for conditions that could affect your ability to drive safely — diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea, and certain medications can all trigger closer review or disqualification.

If you pass the exam, the Medical Examiner issues a Medical Certificate valid for two years (or one year if you have certain medical conditions). You must carry this certificate with you whenever you drive a commercial vehicle. If your certificate expires, you cannot legally drive commercially, even if your CDL itself is still valid.

The cost of a medical exam varies by location and examiner, typically ranging from $50 to $150. Some employers cover this cost for new hires, but you should expect to pay it yourself if you are pursuing the license on your own.

Disqualifying Driving Records and Criminal History

Your state DMV will review your entire driving history. Permanent disqualifications usually include a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while impaired (DWI), a felony involving the use of a motor vehicle, or fleeing from police. A second DUI or DWI conviction at any point in your life — even before you explore for a CDL — typically disqualifies you permanently.

Temporary disqualifications last a set number of years and vary by state. These often include reckless driving, negligent operation, or accumulating too many traffic violations within a short period. For example, some states disqualify you for one year if you have three or more moving violations in the past three years. Once the disqualification period ends, you may reapply.

Criminal convictions are handled separately from traffic violations. Felony drug convictions, human trafficking, or certain sexual offenses typically result in permanent disqualification. Misdemeanor drug convictions may also disqualify you, depending on your state. You should contact your state's DMV or a CDL training program to learn which specific convictions affect your may be able to access.

Vision and Hearing Standards

The FMCSA sets federal minimum standards for vision and hearing that all states follow. Your vision must be at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without correction (glasses or contacts are allowed). You must also have a field of vision of at least 70 degrees in each eye. If you have had eye surgery, you may still may have access to, but the Medical Examiner will document this.

For hearing, you must be able to perceive a forced whisper at three feet away. This is a basic test — the examiner will whisper words from three feet away and you repeat them. If you wear hearing aids, you can still pass as long as you meet the standard with them on. You must disclose the hearing aid to the examiner, and it will be noted on your Medical Certificate.

State-Specific Requirements and Variations

While federal standards set a floor, individual states add their own rules. Some states require you to complete a certain number of hours of classroom or behind-the-wheel training before you can test for a CDL. Others do not mandate training but strongly recommend it. A few states require fingerprinting or additional background checks beyond the standard DMV check.

Some states also have rules about residency — you may need to hold a valid driver's license from that state for a certain period before you can test for a CDL. A few states have different age requirements for certain vehicle types (like tanker trucks or passenger vehicles). Check your specific state's DMV website or call their CDL section directly to learn what applies to you.

If you have moved to a new state, you may be able to transfer your CDL from your previous state, but you will still need to pass a medical exam and meet that state's specific requirements. Some states require you to retake the written test or skills test even with a valid CDL from another state.

What Happens After You Meet the Requirements

Once you have confirmed you meet the basic requirements, the next step is usually to enroll in a CDL training program or study on your own for the written test. The written test covers federal regulations, vehicle safety, and the specific endorsement you are pursuing (tanker, hazmat, passenger, etc.). You must pass this test before you can take the skills test, which includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, a basic control test, and a road test.

After you pass both tests, the DMV issues your CDL. You will need to renew it every four to eight years depending on your state, and you must maintain a valid Medical Certificate throughout your CDL tenure. Some employers require additional certifications or endorsements beyond the basic CDL, so ask your employer what they need before you begin training.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a CDL if I have had a DUI in the past?

A single DUI conviction typically results in permanent disqualification from holding a CDL. A DWI is treated the same way. If you have a DUI on your record from before you applied for a CDL, you are permanently ineligible. Contact your state's DMV to confirm the exact rule in your state, as some have narrow exceptions for very old convictions.

What if my medical certificate expires while I am driving?

You cannot legally operate a commercial vehicle without a valid Medical Certificate. If yours expires, you must stop driving commercially when ready and schedule a new medical exam. Your CDL remains valid, but it is useless without the certificate. Plan ahead and schedule your renewal exam before your certificate expires.

Do I need to pass a drug test to get a CDL?

The Medical Examiner does not perform a drug test as part of the standard medical exam. However, many employers require a drug test before hiring a CDL driver, and some states conduct random drug testing of commercial drivers. The CDL itself does not require a drug test, but your employer or state may.

Can I get a CDL with a suspended or revoked license?

No. You must have a valid, non-suspended regular driver's license to hold a CDL. If your regular license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get a CDL until it is reinstated. Once your license is valid again, you can explore for a CDL if you meet all other requirements.

How long does it take to get a CDL after I meet the requirements?

The timeline depends on how quickly you complete training and pass the tests. If you enroll in an intensive program, you might be ready to test within three to six weeks. However, scheduling the medical exam, training, and DMV testing can stretch this to two or three months. Your state's DMV processing time also varies — some issue the license within days of passing the test, while others take several weeks.