How to get a CDL without the hassle of being turned away by the DMV.

Ready to hit the road and launch your trucking career? You’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about getting your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) using a simple three-step method.

Who am I to guide you through this process? My name is Alex, and I’ve been in the trucking industry for seven years. From working at a truck dealership to driving regionally, I’ve seen it all. When I started out, I was left to figure things out on my own—so much so that I showed up for my CDL driving test with the wrong truck! Spoiler alert: I didn’t pass that day.

This article is here to make sure you don’t make the same mistakes that I made. Let’s get started and get you on the road to success!

What is a CDL?

Before we dive into the steps, let’s start with the basics: what exactly is a CDL? A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a special license required to drive commercial trucks. There are three main types of CDLs: Class A, Class B, and Class C. Each class covers different types of vehicles and driving requirements. If you want a detailed breakdown of what each CDL class allows you to drive, click here.

CDL Endorsements

CDLs also come with options to upgrade your license by adding endorsements. An endorsement is a letter on your license that allows you to haul specialized loads, such as hazardous materials, or operate equipment with multiple trailers. These endorsements can open up new opportunities in the trucking industry. Here’s a quick list of the endorsements you can add to your CDL.

• Hazmat (H)
• Tank endorsement (N)
• Tanker and Hazmat (X)
• Double/ Triples (T)
• School bus (S)
• Passenger (P)

What kind of jobs can I get with a CDL?

With a CDL, you can unlock a wide range of high-paying jobs in the trucking industry. Your options determine your lifestyle, from being home every night to working over the road and coming home every few weeks. A local job might involve delivering fuel to nearby gas stations, while an over-the-road role could include hauling pneumatic trailers to various receivers. If either of these sounds appealing, check out my article on Wayne Transports here.

CDL Requirements

Now that we know what a CDL is, let’s discuss how to get one. First, you need a regular Class D driver’s license. That’s the license most people have for driving cars or pickup trucks. It shows you know the basics of driving before moving on to big trucks. Next, we’ll go over the age requirements.

How old do you have to be to get a CDL?

You can get a CDL when you turn 18, but there’s a catch. If you’re under 21, your license will have an intrastate restriction, meaning you can only drive within the state where you have your CDL. Once you turn 21, the interstate option becomes available, allowing you to drive in any state. To add this option, simply select it on the self-certification medical form at the DMV. Speaking of medical forms, let’s go over the medical requirements next.

What is a DOT medical card?

Getting a CDL comes with high standards, including the requirement to have a DOT medical card. The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires all truck drivers to pass a physical exam to ensure they’re fit to drive. To get a DOT card, you’ll need to visit a certified doctor or chiropractor. During the exam, they’ll check your eyesight, kidneys, blood pressure, and joints. If everything checks out, your card will be valid for up to two years; otherwise, it may only be valid for one year. If you have a medical condition, you can apply for an exemption through the FMCSA website. Click here to learn more.

Do I need a High school diploma to get a CDL?

Finally, let’s address whether you need a high school diploma or GED to get a CDL. There’s no rule requiring you to have one, but it can be helpful during the process. Most people prepare for the CDL tests by studying the CDL handbook, which covers everything you need to know to pass the exams at the DMV.

How to get a CDL step by step

Now, the moment you’ve been waiting for—how to get a CDL without the hassle of being turned away by the DMV. The secret is my P.E.T. method: Permit, Entry-level driver training, and Test. First, you get your learner’s permit. Next, complete an entry-level driver training class. Finally, take your CDL test at the DMV.

I discovered this method back when I was getting my CDL. At the time, my bosses—who came from the car dealership world—barely knew anything about trucks, so I had to figure things out on my own. It was during the COVID shutdowns, and the DMV wasn’t answering calls. Frustrated, I turned to research and stumbled upon a trucker’s YouTube channel explaining the CDL process. Although their method was different from today’s rules, I modified it to fit the current system. Without further ado, let’s dive in!

1) Getting your Drivers Permit

The first step to getting a CDL is applying for a learner’s permit. This permit allows you to practice driving with a licensed CDL holder. It’s valid for 180 days and can be renewed once without retaking the written tests.

Getting a CDL learner’s permit is similar to getting a regular Class D license, but you’ll need to pass specific tests to show your general truck driving knowledge. Since there are different types of CDLs, the tests may vary depending on what you plan to drive. For a Class A CDL, the main tests include general knowledge, air brakes, and combination vehicles. To save time later, it’s a good idea to take any endorsement tests you might need at the same time.

2) Entry-level driver training (ELDT)

As of February 7, 2022, the FMCSA requires new CDL drivers to complete an Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) course from a registered instructor listed in their database. The training has two parts: general knowledge and behind-the-wheel training. Both parts must be completed before you can schedule the skills test at the DMV. While the general knowledge portion can be done online, the behind-the-wheel training must be completed in person. here is a list of topics they go over.

• Basic operations
• Safe operating procedures
• Advance operating practices
• Vehicle systems
• Non-driving activity’s

3) Taking the CDL skills test

You’re almost at the finish line! Once you’ve held your CDL learner’s permit for 14 days and completed the required ELDT, you can schedule your skills tests. These include the pre-trip inspection, driving, and backing tests. Here’s how my experience went, so you’ll know what to expect.

First, the tester had me perform the pre-trip inspection outside the truck. She shortened it to just the engine compartment and the trailer, but be prepared for the full test. After completing the outside portion, we moved to the in-cab inspection. I did the air brake test and checked items like the reflective triangles, fire extinguisher, and other essentials to wrap up the pre-trip.

Once I passed, we moved on to the driving portion. We drove through traffic, making left and right turns, until we reached an industrial area for the backing test. After setting up the cones, I completed the off-side backing maneuver. Then, I performed a 90-degree alley dock, parking the trailer in the designated spot.

Finally, we returned to the testing station, and I passed my CDL skills test!

Conclusion

In conclusion, getting a CDL isn’t all that hard. The three steps to getting a CDL are to study for the CDL permit test, go to registered ELDT training, and finally take your test. With a little hard work and a lot of paperwork, you, too, can become a trucker. I hope to see the new drivers on the road and to keep the country roiling.