What you need to do to get a commercial driver's license
A commercial driver's license (CDL) is a license that lets you drive trucks, buses, or other large vehicles for work. You cannot get one by renewing a regular driver's license — you have to take separate tests and meet specific requirements that vary by state. Most states require you to pass a written knowledge test, a skills test behind the wheel, and a medical exam before you can hold a CDL.
The process usually takes between four and twelve weeks, depending on how quickly you find a testing location and whether you attend a training school. Some people study on their own; others attend a commercial driver training program that lasts a few weeks. Either way, you will need to pass the same tests your state requires.
Key Takeaways
- You must hold a valid regular driver's license before you can test for a CDL, and you must pass a medical exam showing you can safely operate a commercial vehicle.
- Every state requires a written knowledge test covering vehicle operation, safety, and cargo rules; many states also require a separate air brakes test if you want to drive certain trucks.
- You will take a skills test in an actual vehicle, usually lasting 30 to 45 minutes, where an examiner watches you perform specific driving tasks.
- Some states let you test when ready after studying on your own; others require proof of training hours from a school before you can sit for the test.
- The cost ranges widely by state and whether you attend a training school, from under $500 for self-study to $3,000 to $7,000 for a formal program.
What your state requires before you can test
Before you can sit for any CDL test, your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency will require you to meet several baseline conditions. You must have a valid regular driver's license with no current suspensions. You must also pass a medical certification exam performed by a doctor approved by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This exam checks your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and ability to operate a vehicle safely; it usually costs $50 to $150.
Some states require you to hold a commercial learner's permit (CLP) for a set number of days before you can test for the full license. To get a CLP, you typically pass the written knowledge test and pay a fee (usually $10 to $50), then wait — some states require 14 days, others 30 days or more. During this waiting period, you can practice driving with a licensed CDL holder in the passenger seat. Check your state's DMV website to see whether a waiting period applies where you live.
The written knowledge test and what it covers
Every state requires you to pass a written test on CDL knowledge. The test covers vehicle operation, safety rules, how to handle different road conditions, and regulations about cargo and hours of service. Most states give you 60 minutes to answer 50 questions; you usually need to score at least 80 percent to pass. You can take the test at your state's DMV office or at an approved testing center.
If you want to drive certain types of trucks — such as those with air brakes or tanker trucks carrying liquids — your state may require you to pass additional written tests called endorsements. The most common is the air brakes endorsement. You study the same way you study for the main test: using your state's CDL manual (free on the DMV website) or a study guide you buy online. Many people take practice tests online before sitting for the real exam.
The skills test: what happens on test day
After you pass the written test, you schedule a skills test with an examiner approved by your state. The test has three parts: a pre-trip inspection (where you walk around the vehicle and point out safety features), a basic control test (where you perform maneuvers like backing up in a straight line), and a road test (where you drive on public roads for 30 to 45 minutes while the examiner watches). You must bring your own vehicle — usually a truck matching the class of license you are testing for — or use one provided by a training school.
The examiner is looking for safe driving habits: smooth steering, proper mirror checks, correct speed, and following traffic laws. You do not need to be perfect, but you cannot make critical errors like hitting an object, running a red light, or failing to signal. If you fail any part, you can retake it, though you may have to wait a few days and pay another fee.
Training school versus self-study
You have two main paths: attend a commercial driver training program or study on your own. A training program typically lasts three to eight weeks, costs $3,000 to $7,000, and includes classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel practice, and test preparation. The advantage is that instructors teach you exactly what the test covers, and you practice in the actual vehicle you will test in. Many programs also help you schedule your test and provide job placement support after you pass.
Self-study is cheaper — you buy or read your state's CDL manual (free) and study guides (usually $20 to $50) — but you have to arrange your own practice driving and find someone with a CDL to supervise you. Some states allow self-study; others require proof that you completed a training program before you can test. Check your state's requirements first. If you choose self-study, budget extra time to find a vehicle and a may have access to supervisor for practice.
Costs and timeline
The total cost depends on whether you attend a school and which state you live in. A self-study path costs roughly $100 to $300 for the manual, study materials, and test fees. A training school program costs $3,000 to $7,000, though some schools offer payment plans. Add the medical exam ($50 to $150) and any endorsement tests you need.
The timeline is usually four to twelve weeks from start to finish. If you attend a training school, the school schedule determines your pace — most programs run four to eight weeks. If you self-study, you control the pace, but you still have to wait for test appointments, which can have a backlog in busy areas. Plan for at least two to four weeks of study time before you feel ready to test, plus one to two weeks to schedule and complete your skills test.
After you pass: maintaining your CDL
Once you pass all tests and receive your CDL, you must renew it every four or eight years depending on your state. You will need to pass a new medical exam before each renewal. If you get certain traffic violations or fail to maintain your medical certification, your CDL can be suspended or revoked. Some employers also require you to pass a background check and drug test before you can start driving commercially.
Your CDL will show the class of vehicle you can drive (Class A, B, or C) and any endorsements you earned (such as air brakes or hazmat). If you want to add endorsements later, you can test for them without retaking the full CDL test — you only take the written test for that endorsement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a CDL if I have a suspended or revoked regular driver's license?
No. You must have a valid, unrestricted regular driver's license before you can test for a CDL. If your license is suspended, you need to resolve that with your state's DMV first. Once your license is valid again, you can begin the CDL process.
What is the difference between Class A, B, and C CDLs?
Class A lets you drive the largest trucks (over 26,001 pounds) and is the most common for long-haul trucking. Class B is for medium trucks (14,001 to 26,000 pounds) like some delivery trucks and buses. Class C is for smaller commercial vehicles. Your state determines which class you test for based on the vehicle you use for your skills test.
Do I have to attend a training school, or can I just study on my own?
It depends on your state. Some states allow self-study; others require proof of training hours from an approved school. Check your state's DMV website to see the requirement. Even if self-study is allowed, many people choose a school because instructors teach test content and provide practice in the actual vehicle.
What happens if I fail the skills test?
You can retake it. Most states let you schedule another test within a few days or weeks, though you will pay the test fee again. Many people fail on their first attempt and pass on the second, so one failure does not mean you cannot get your CDL.
How long does a CDL stay valid?
Most states issue CDLs that are valid for four or eight years. You must renew before expiration and pass a new medical exam. Some states require a written test at renewal; others do not. Check your state's renewal requirements when your CDL is issued.