How to Become a Truck Driver: Getting Your CDL

How do I get a Commercial Driver’s License? We’ve got the answer! This is your ultimate guide to start your truck driving career: how to get your CDL, what requirements are needed, and the steps toward getting on the road.

How do I become a commercial truck driver?

In order to start driving medium- and heavy-duty trucks, you must first earn your commercial driver’s license, or CDL. There are a handful of questions that come with obtaining it. What is a CDL? What are the classification types? How long is the process? What is the age requirement? How much does a CDL license cost?

If you are considering a profession in trucking, we’ll begin with the basics…

What is a commercial truck driver?

Let’s start with something simple. What is a commercial truck driver?

A commercial truck driver operates a large vehicle, such as a tractor-trailer or delivery truck, to transport goods and materials to and from retail and distribution centers or manufacturers. They play a key role in the supply chain by delivering products like retail merchandise, food, automobiles, or hazardous materials across local, regional, or national routes. Commercial truck drivers are responsible for ensuring safe and timely deliveries, adhering to road and traffic laws on driving and rest periods.

As a truck driver, you will need to take care of your truck by performing pre-trip inspections, regular maintenance, and ensuring you retrieve and deliver the correct products to the right location.

What is a CDL?

A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a specific credential that allows you to drive a commercial vehicle on the road. It requires extensive knowledge and special skills to safely operate heavy, large, and/or specialized vehicles.

First and foremost, you will want to get a copy of your state’s Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Manual. These manuals are available at any state field location and can also be downloaded from their official website and printed. Each state has their own processes to acquire a CDL.

No matter what type of truck driving you are looking to get into, it is required that you have a CDL in order to operate any type of commercial motor vehicle.

What are the CDL Classification types?

You’ll want to choose the vehicle and what kind of driving you want the license for. There are 3 different types of CDL classifications: A, B, and C.

Class A CDL

“Required to operate any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 or more pounds, provided the towed vehicle is heavier than 10,000 pounds.” (Source)

Vehicles permitted with a Class A CDL include Tractor-Trailers (Semi-Trucks or 18-Wheelers), Tanker Vehicles, Flatbeds, and Livestock Carriers. This license also allows you to drive vehicles covered under classes B and C.

Class B CDL

“Required to operate any single vehicle that isn’t hitched to a trailer (commercial trucks that have an attached cab and cargo area with a combined weight greater than 26,000 pounds, as well as trucks with a detached towed cargo vehicle that weighs less than 10,000 pounds).” (Source)

Vehicles permitted with a Class B CDL include Straight Trucks (Large, Single-Unit Vehicles), Large Buses (School and/or City Buses), Box Trucks (like delivery trucks), Dump Trucks, as well as Recycling and Garbage Trucks.

Class C CDL

“Required to operate a single vehicle with GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds or a vehicle towing another vehicle that weighs less than 10,000 pounds, or transports 16 or more passengers, including the driver.” (Source)

Vehicles permitted with a Class C CDL include transport vehicles such as Small Passenger Vans and Busses, and additionally include small HAZMAT trucks.

Endorsements

Drivers who are looking to drive trucks can add an endorsement to their CDL license. Earning an additional endorsement allows drivers to operate different kinds of vehicles and haul specific types of freight based on what class of CDL they have. The six types of endorsements include:

What is the age requirement to drive a commercial vehicle?

A driver must be at least 18 years old to drive a commercial vehicle within their state; 21 years of age to drive across state lines. Drivers must have an existing valid, non-commercial driver’s license to obtain their CDL. They must also have two years of driving experience under their belt before even beginning the process of getting their CDL. A clean driving record is essential. Serious traffic violations, criminal records, or a history of DUIs/DWIs may disqualify you. Applicants must be able to pass a background test, provide proof of citizenship, and pass standard physical and medical examinations.

How much does getting a CDL cost?

The total cost of a Commercial Driver’s License depends on multiple factors: home state, classification type, and training program. “On average, the CDL license cost ranges from $1,500 to $8,000, covering training fees, written and skills test fees, and licensing fees. Additional costs include medical exams and specific vehicle endorsements.” (Source)

How long does training take to get a CDL License?

It can take weeks to months to train to get your Commercial Driver’s License. Depending on several factors, such as the type of CDL you’re pursuing, the state you’re living in, the training program you choose, and how quickly you can pass the required tests. In short, the entire process can take anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks. This includes training, the Commercial Learner’s Permit and CDL written and road tests, as well as obtaining insurance and your official, physical CDL license.

It is important to enroll in a truck driving program in your area. You’ll not only learn the laws and regulations necessary for truck driving, you’ll also get hands-on experience driving a commercial vehicle with guided instruction.

The CDL Training Program can take 3 weeks to 3 months to complete. Full-Time training programs take 3 to 6 weeks to complete. This includes a combination of in-class instruction and behind-the-wheel training. Part-Time training can take longer, about 2 to 3 months, depending on your schedule and availability. Company-Sponsored training depends on how long your trucking company offers. These programs can be fast-tracked with the expectation that you’ll work for the company after getting your license.

If you need additional endorsements (pertaining to driving a specialized vehicle) or state-specific requirements (such as different waiting periods or additional requirements), the process may take longer.

What is the Commercial Learner’s Permit Exam?

To get your CDL, you first must get your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). This permit is issued by your state and authorizes you to practice driving on-road in the vehicle. The written test covers topics like general driving rules, road safety, vehicle operation, and laws specific to commercial driving. Passing the CLP exam allows a driver to practice driving under the supervision of a licensed CDL holder, which is necessary before taking the CDL skills test and earning your full license.

Once you’ve passed your CLP, you must have had it for 14 days prior to applying and testing for your CDL.

How to Get a CDL

When you’re prepared and ready to take your CDL test, this is what you’ll do:

You will take the FMCSA Exam. This test includes both written and physical tests. The written exam tests your knowledge on federal law, while the physical portion tests your vision and driving capabilities. Keep in mind that you will not need to retake the written portion once you’ve passed, but you will need to retake the physical part of the exam every two years.

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, “You must pass all 3 parts of the Skills Test: the Vehicle Inspection Test, the Basic Controls Test, and the Road Test. Your state may even allow you to use their “training aid” to help you remember items on the vehicle inspection checklist.” (Source)

Skills Test

The Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Test is a thorough examination of the vehicle. This includes checking the engine compartments, brakes, lights, tires, and other essential components of a truck. While inspecting, you must explain what each part is and why it’s important. You are expected to demonstrate your knowledge of the vehicle, its condition, and its safety requirements.

The Basic Vehicle Controls Test involves reversing, parking, and turning. These exercises are meant to demonstrate how you maneuver and perform these actions.

During the On-Road Driving Test, you must demonstrate multiple operations: the ability to start and stop the vehicle smoothly and safely. Merging and changing lanes using signals and checking mirrors. Yielding appropriately and crossing at intersections and railroad tracks. The ability to start and stop on an incline, as well as managing the vehicle’s weight without rolling backward. Making safe and controlled turns and maneuvering curves. The ability to navigate various traffic conditions, such as urban, suburban, and highways. Lastly, how the driver handles simulated emergency situations, such as sudden stops or obstacles.

Once you’ve passed the written and road tests, and pay the fees associated, you’ll have received your CDL!

Getting a Commercial Driver’s License in Pennsylvania

Getting your Commercial Driver License in New Jersey

Get a Commercial Driver License in New York

Getting your Commercial Driver’s License in Delaware