Read carefully and take notes if you need to. This article will guide you in the right direction.

Obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a required step for anyone looking to pursue a career being a truck driver. This guide will take you step by step through the process of getting your CDL, from understanding the requirements to passing the necessary tests.

Understanding CDL Classifications

Commercial Driver’s Licenses are divided into three main classes:

Class A CDL

• Allows operation of combination vehicles
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) over 26,000 pounds
• Typical vehicles: Tractor-trailers, truck and trailer combinations

Class B CDL

• Allows operation of single or combination vehicles
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) over 26,000 pounds
• Typical vehicles: Straight trucks, large buses, segmented buses

Class C CDL

• Used for smaller commercial vehicles
• Designed for vehicles transporting hazardous materials
• Typical vehicles: Passenger vans, small buses, vehicles with hazmat placards

Minimum Requirements

Before applying for a CDL, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old (21 for interstate ((out of state)) driving)
• Hold a valid standard driver’s license
• Be able to read and speak English sufficiently to communicate with law enforcement
• Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination
• Pass a drug screening

Step-by-Step CDL Acquisition Process

1. Go pick up a CDL Manual from DMV (there is a link at the bottom of this article where you can download the manual without having to go into the office)

• Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT)
• Passenger Transport
• Tank Vehicles
• Double/Triple Trailers
• School Bus

• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Website
• State DMV Websites
  • Professional Truck Driver Associations

• Get the official CDL manual from your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
• Study the manual thoroughly, covering:
• Traffic laws
• Safe driving techniques
• Vehicle inspection procedures (Pre-Trip)
• Cargo handling
• Special endorsements (such as Tanker endorsement, passenger endorsement, for driving a bus, doubles, triples and hazardous materials)

2. Prepare for Written Knowledge Tests (STUDY, MEMORIZE)

Key areas of study include: General knowledge, coupling, and air brakes. The test is broken down into three very important parts. Memorize, take practice tests online.

• Basic control skills
• Vehicle inspection(PRE TRIP INSPECTION)**
• Safe driving practices
• Transportation regulations
• Cargo handling and securing
• Specialized endorsements (if applicable)

3. Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

• Pass the written knowledge tests
• Pay required fees
• Hold the CLP for a minimum period (typically 14 days) before skills test
• Must be accompanied by a licensed CDL holder during practice driving

4. Additional Endorsements

Depending on your career goals, consider these specialized endorsements:

5. Skills Test Preparation

• Practice driving with a licensed CDL holder
• Take professional driving lessons or attend a truck driving school (Required in Georgia) you can no longer just study yourself and go take the test, you must attend a school.
• Know the vehicle inspection procedures (learn the jargon)
• Practice backing up, turning, and maneuvering large vehicles

6. Pass the CDL Skills Test

The test typically includes three components:

1. Vehicle Inspection Test (Pre-Trip)
2. Basic Control Skills Test
3. Road Test

7. Final Steps

• Pay all required fees
• Submit necessary documentation
• Receive your CDL
• Maintain a clean driving record

Estimated Costs

• CDL Training Program: $3,000 – $10,000
• Written Test Fee: $10 – $50
• Skills Test Fee: $50 – $200
• License Issuance Fee: $20 – $100

Tips for Success

• Start preparing early(read and memorize the DMV book) Only the sections you need.
• Consider professional truck driving schools (Grants may be available)
• Practice consistently
• Stay physically and mentally prepared
• Maintain a clean driving record

The real truth:

Obtaining a CDL requires dedication, preparation, and commitment. By following these steps and investing time in study and practice, you can successfully launch a rewarding career as a truck driver.

My thoughts and input:

I got my CDL at the age of 50. I went to my local department of Labor and I was a displaced worker because of covid. I was then eligible for a grant to go to school and there were many options you could pick.  My husband and I had been over the road truckers, I didn’t drive though, for almost 11 years before he passed away. I had gotten my learner’s permit literally six times counting renewing it. I still did not know how to drive the truck really. I could drive an automatic down the road with my learner’s permit when he was tired but that’s not how you’re supposed to do it. Because of my husband’s heavy workload, he was unable to teach me how to drive. When I got the grant it took a year with all the hoops you have to jump through and hurdles to actually start school. Finally it all came together. I’ll give you a piece of advice that helped me the most is studying the book and taking practice tests online. Be sure that you’re taking practice tests on the official department of motor vehicles website because the others could give you wrong information. I have included a link to get the latest information from the DDS official study guide. It is downloadable and printable. Mind you I am not an expert or an official on any of this information, I was just sharing my experiences and that’s all I can go by. I’m sure there are other websites that you can go to and find more information, don’t stop here. There are so many resources out there and avenues you can take other than this probably but this is a good starting point.

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