A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) can lead to many employment opportunities in the trucking industry. A CDL is your ticket to a rewarding and successful career, whether you want to drive long-haul trucks, buses, or heavy equipment. Below, you will learn the procedures and requirements needed to get a CDL and start a rewarding profession in commercial driving.
Types of CDLs
A CDL is divided into three types based on the type and size of the vehicle you are operating.
· Class A CDL: you can operate a combination of vehicles such as tractor-trailers.
· Class B CDL: allows you to operate single vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more.
· Class C CDL: is for vehicles not under Class A or B and is needed to transport 16 or more passengers or hazardous materials.
Endorsements are an addition to your basic CDL. Several endorsements let you specialize in certain commercial driving. These endorsements include:
· Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) Endorsement
· Tanker Endorsement
· Passenger Endorsement
· School Bus Endorsement
Knowing the basics is important before you begin your journey to obtaining your CDL, as these will allow you to choose the CDL class and which endorsements are best for you and your career.
Determine Your Eligibility
If you are between the ages of 18 and 21, you are eligible to obtain your CDL. You can operate a commercial vehicle outside your home state after age 21. You must get a physical and a DOT medical card from an examiner on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSR) national registry. You must also provide documentation to prove your identity, state of residency, Social Security number, and driving history. These can include:
· Birth certificate
· Driver’s license
· Social Security card
· Utility Bill
· Copy of MVR
If you are attending an out-of-state truck driving school, you must contact your recruiter to see if out-of-state students require additional residency requirements. You must also remember that while a high school diploma or GED is not a driver requirement to get your CDL, some employers will require this for you to be considered for employment.
Address Issues That Could Prevent You from Obtaining Your CDL
Even if you meet the eligibility criteria above, several things could hinder you from obtaining your CDL. These can include:
· Certain prescription medications
· Medical conditions, including sleep apnea, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
· Physical handicaps, including missing fingers, toes, or limbs.
· Criminal history such as reckless driving or drunk driving.
· Felony convictions for kidnapping, arson, or extorsion.
For those with disabilities or medical conditions, getting a written waiver from a doctor stating that your condition will not prevent you from operating a commercial vehicle safely is possible.
Enroll in a Truck Driving School
There are several different CDL truck-driving schools to choose from. You can choose between a private training academy and community college program with instructors and courses or join a CDL driver mill run by large carriers.
Complete a CDL Learner’s Permit Application
You can get your learner’s permit application online or in person at a truck driving school. Documentation that is required includes the following:
· Copy of your MVR – must include your driving history from all 50 states, including Washington, D.C.
· Your home address.
· Current driver’s license and information on any other licenses you have had in other states.
· Alternate proof of identification such as a credit card, passport, or Social Security card
Take the General Knowledge and Final CDL Test
After applying and paying for your learner’s permit, you must pass the general knowledge test. Next is to take the final CDL test. For your final CDL test, you will need to take your knowledge to pass the following tests:
· Vehicle Inspection (Pre-Trip Inspection) Test includes checking the tires, engine compartment, braking system, etc.
· Basic Controls Test include straight line and offset backing, alley docking, and parallel parking.
· Road Test – an instructor will grade you on your awareness, overall control of the truck, use of turn signals and mirrors, and your ability to brake and accelerate safely.
You Got Your CDL – Now What?
After you have passed your final CDL test, you will obtain a physical copy of your new license. Now, it is time to get the job you have always wanted. If you are in a paid CDL training program, you will have an automatic job placement as a truck driver. However, if you completed the program as a private truck driver, the school may have a placement program with select trucking companies. If not, it is your job to begin your job search. Finding one that meets your preferences, including dispatch, loads, and insurance, is important when looking for a job.