How to Get a CDL: Step-by-Step Requirements (2026 Guide)

Quick answer: To get a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in 2026, you generally must be at least 18 years old (21 for interstate driving), meet federal and state eligibility requirements, obtain the required DOT medical certification, pass the knowledge tests for a commercial learner’s permit (CLP), complete applicable entry-level driver training (ELDT), and pass the CDL skills test. You must hold your CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test. Costs, paperwork, and additional requirements vary by state.

Last updated: November 1, 2026. Sources: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and state driver licensing agencies.

Getting your CDL opens the door to careers in trucking, freight transportation, construction, passenger transportation, and other commercial driving fields.

Whether you’re planning to drive tractor-trailers across the country or operate commercial trucks closer to home, the licensing process follows a common federal framework.

Here’s how to get started, what training you need, what it may cost, and how to find your first driving job.

How Do I Get a CDL? The 6 Steps

Step 1: Confirm You Meet the CDL Requirements

Before applying for a CDL, make sure you meet the basic eligibility requirements.

Most first-time applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old to qualify for intrastate commercial driving, subject to state requirements.
• Be at least 21 to drive commercial vehicles in interstate commerce.
• Hold a valid regular driver’s license.
• Provide acceptable identification and proof of state residency and eligibility to receive a CDL.
• Meet applicable medical and vision requirements.
• Have a driving record that does not disqualify them from commercial driving.

States review driving histories and may require additional documentation or testing.

Do you need to speak English to drive commercially?

Federal rules require commercial motor vehicle drivers operating in interstate commerce to have sufficient English proficiency to communicate with the public, understand highway signs and signals, respond to official inquiries, and complete required records.

English-language proficiency is a federal driver qualification, and violations can result in a driver being placed out of service.

Requirements for obtaining a CDL and qualifications for operating in interstate commerce are related but not identical. Review your state’s CDL requirements and the federal rules applicable to your intended work.

Tip: Download your state’s official CDL manual before scheduling any tests. It explains the knowledge tests, documentation, fees, and requirements that apply where you live.

Source: FMCSA Commercial Driver’s License Program

Step 2: Complete Your DOT Medical Examination

Most commercial drivers engaged in non-excepted operations must meet federal medical qualification standards.

To obtain the required medical certification, schedule a physical examination with a certified medical examiner listed on FMCSA’s National Registry.

The examination generally evaluates:

• Vision and hearing.
• Blood pressure and cardiovascular health.
• Physical ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.
• Medical history and applicable medications.
• Other conditions that could affect safe driving.

Medical examiner’s certificates are generally valid for up to 24 months, although an examiner may issue a shorter certification period.

Important 2026 medical certification update

FMCSA’s National Registry II system electronically transmits medical examination results to state driver licensing agencies.

As of October 12, 2026, drivers licensed in most states can no longer rely on a paper medical examiner’s certificate alone as proof of certification while electronic information is pending. Alaska has a temporary exemption.

Certified examiners may still provide paper certificates for drivers’ records, but applicants should verify that their medical status has been recorded correctly by their state licensing agency.

Some excepted commercial driving operations have different medical certification requirements.

Source: FMCSA National Registry II Learning Center

Step 3: Obtain Your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

Before you can practice driving a commercial vehicle on public roads, you’ll need a commercial learner’s permit.

Apply through your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent licensing agency.

You’ll generally need to:

1. Submit your application and required identification.
2. Provide proof of residency and other eligibility documentation.
3. Meet applicable medical certification requirements.
4. Pass the required CDL knowledge tests.
5. Pay your state’s permit fee.

For a Class A CDL, the required knowledge tests commonly include:

• General Knowledge: Commercial vehicle operation, safety, regulations, and inspections.
• Combination Vehicles: Operating tractor-trailers and other qualifying combination vehicles.
• Air Brakes: Required to operate vehicles equipped with air brake systems without applicable restrictions.

Federal CDL knowledge testing standards generally require a passing score of at least 80%.

Your CLP allows you to practice driving the type of commercial vehicle you’re seeking to operate, subject to permit restrictions and supervision by a qualified CDL holder.

How long is a CDL permit valid?

Federal regulations permit CLPs to be issued for a period of up to one year. Check your state’s actual validity and renewal rules.

Do you need to finish CDL school before getting a permit?

No. Federal rules do not require you to complete ELDT theory training before applying for your CLP. However, some training programs may have their own enrollment requirements.

Source: FMCSA — How Do I Get a CDL?

Step 4: Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

Most first-time Class A and Class B CDL applicants must complete entry-level driver training through a provider registered with FMCSA.

ELDT requirements also apply to:

• Drivers upgrading from a Class B CDL to a Class A CDL.
• First-time applicants for a passenger (P) endorsement.
• First-time applicants for a school bus (S) endorsement.
• First-time applicants for a hazardous materials (H) endorsement.

Certain exemptions and grandfathering provisions apply.

ELDT typically includes two components for Class A and Class B applicants.

Theory training

Covers subjects such as vehicle operation, safety procedures, vehicle systems, hours-of-service regulations, and handling driving hazards.

Students must demonstrate knowledge by achieving a minimum score of 80% on the required theory assessment.

Behind-the-wheel training

Includes vehicle control, maneuvers, inspections, and driving on public roads.

Federal ELDT regulations do not establish a minimum number of training hours. Instead, instructors must determine that the student has demonstrated the required proficiency.

Where can you complete CDL training?

Registered training providers may include:

• Private truck driving schools.
• Community colleges and technical schools.
• Trucking companies offering driver training.
• Other eligible training organizations.

Before enrolling, confirm that the provider is listed on the official FMCSA Training Provider Registry.

Your provider must electronically submit the required completion records. You can verify the training certification using the registry’s driver record tools.

Tip: Ask whether training includes the vehicle you’ll use for the CDL skills test, whether testing arrangements are included, and whether graduates receive help finding employment.

Learn more: What Is ELDT?

Find a provider: FMCSA Training Provider Registry

Step 5: Pass the CDL Skills Test

Once you’ve held your CLP for at least 14 days and completed applicable training, you can take the CDL skills test.

The exam consists of three parts.

1. Vehicle Inspection Test

Demonstrate that you can inspect your commercial vehicle and identify important safety and operational components.

2. Basic Controls Test

Demonstrate your ability to control the vehicle through required maneuvers, including backing and positioning exercises.

3. Road Test

Demonstrate safe vehicle operation in traffic, including turning, lane changes, intersections, and other driving situations.

You must pass all required portions to qualify for your CDL.

Choose your testing vehicle carefully.

The vehicle you use during your skills test can affect restrictions placed on your license.

For example:

• Testing in a vehicle with an automatic transmission generally results in a restriction against operating a manual-transmission commercial vehicle.
• Testing without the required air brake equipment or qualifications can result in air brake restrictions.
• Certain combination-vehicle testing configurations may result in restrictions on operating tractor-trailers.

These restrictions can affect which trucking jobs you’re qualified to accept.

Ask your training provider how its testing equipment may affect your future employment options.

Source: FMCSA CDL Driver Information

Step 6: Receive Your CDL and Consider Endorsements

Once you’ve passed the required tests and your state verifies your eligibility, you’ll receive your commercial driver’s license.

Some states issue licenses at the licensing office; others mail them.

Review your CDL carefully to confirm the correct license class, endorsements, restrictions, and personal information.

Depending on the type of driving you want to do, you may benefit from additional endorsements.

Endorsement	Purpose
H — Hazardous Materials	Transporting hazardous materials requiring placards
N — Tank Vehicles	Operating qualifying tank vehicles
T — Doubles/Triples	Operating double or triple trailers
P — Passenger	Operating qualifying passenger vehicles
S — School Bus	Operating qualifying school buses
X — Tank/Hazmat	Combined tank vehicle and hazardous materials qualification

Endorsements have different testing and eligibility requirements.

Hazmat requires additional approval.

Drivers seeking a hazardous materials endorsement generally must complete applicable ELDT theory training, pass the hazardous materials knowledge test, and obtain a TSA security threat assessment. Fingerprinting and additional fees are part of the process.

Learn more: CDL Classes and Endorsements Explained

How Long Does It Take to Get a CDL?

Many full-time CDL training programs take several weeks, although the overall process can be shorter or longer depending on your experience, training provider, and state licensing requirements.

Your timeline will depend on:

• How quickly you complete the knowledge tests.
• Availability of DOT medical examinations.
• Training program schedules.
• Your progress mastering driving skills.
• The required CLP holding period.
• CDL skills test appointment availability.
• Any additional state requirements.

The federal minimum CLP holding period is 14 days before taking the CDL skills test. That does not mean most applicants can complete the entire licensing process in two weeks.

Part-time training may take longer than full-time instruction. Programs that include additional driving practice may also extend the schedule.

Tip: Before enrolling, ask the school for its average time from the first day of training to CDL testing—not simply the number of classroom days advertised.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a CDL?

The total cost of obtaining a CDL varies significantly depending on your state, the school you choose, and whether an employer pays for your training.

Your expenses may include:

Expense	What to Expect
DOT medical examination	Provider charges for the required physical
Commercial learner’s permit	State application and testing fees
CDL training	Tuition, classroom instruction, and behind-the-wheel training
CDL skills test	Testing fees and possible vehicle rental charges
CDL issuance	State licensing fees
Endorsements	Additional examinations, screenings, and processing fees
Retesting	Possible charges if you need to repeat an exam

Private CDL training can cost several thousand dollars, but there is no single nationwide tuition rate.

Request a written, itemized estimate before committing to a training program.

Can You Get CDL Training for Free?

Some trucking companies offer employer-sponsored CDL training, paid training opportunities, or tuition reimbursement.

However, “free CDL training” doesn’t always mean there are no financial obligations.

A carrier may require you to work for the company for a specified period after obtaining your license. Leaving early could trigger repayment obligations.

Before signing an agreement, ask:

• Who pays the tuition?
• Will you earn wages during training?
• Is there a required employment commitment?
• What happens if you fail a test?
• What happens if you leave the company early?
• Are housing, meals, transportation, and testing included?

Community college programs, workforce development grants, and other funding opportunities may also help qualifying applicants.

Learn more: Truck Driving Jobs With No Experience

What Is the Difference Between a Class A and Class B CDL?

The type of CDL you need depends on the vehicle you plan to operate.

Class A CDL

Generally covers qualifying combination vehicles with a gross combination weight rating or gross combination weight of 26,001 pounds or more, whichever is greater, when the towed vehicle has a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight exceeding 10,000 pounds, whichever is greater.

Common examples include tractor-trailers and other qualifying heavy combination vehicles.

A Class A CDL is commonly required for over-the-road tractor-trailer positions.

Class B CDL

Generally covers qualifying single vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of 26,001 pounds or more, whichever is greater, and qualifying combinations with a towed vehicle that does not exceed the Class A threshold.

Common examples include certain dump trucks, large straight trucks, and buses.

Some vehicle types require additional endorsements.

Which CDL should you choose?

If you’re interested in driving tractor-trailers for freight carriers, a Class A CDL generally offers the most relevant opportunities.

A Class B CDL may be appropriate for certain local delivery, construction, municipal, or passenger transportation jobs.

The best choice depends on the kind of vehicle and work you want.

Learn more: CDL Classes and Endorsements Explained

CDL Application Checklist

Use this checklist to prepare for the licensing process.

• Review your state’s official CDL manual.

• Confirm you meet the age, identification, residency, and eligibility requirements.

• Decide whether you need a Class A or Class B CDL.

• Complete the required DOT medical examination and confirm your certification status.

• Pass the required CDL knowledge tests.

• Receive your commercial learner’s permit.

• Select an FMCSA-registered ELDT provider.

• Complete applicable theory and behind-the-wheel training.

• Verify that training completion was submitted to the Training Provider Registry.

• Hold your CLP for at least 14 days.

• Pass the CDL vehicle inspection, basic controls, and road tests.

• Confirm your CDL class, endorsements, and restrictions.

• Begin exploring trucking jobs that match your qualifications.

Frequently Asked Questions About Getting a CDL

Can I Get a CDL at 18?

Yes. Drivers who meet their state’s licensing requirements can generally obtain a CDL at age 18 for intrastate commercial driving.

Interstate commercial driving generally requires drivers to be at least 21 years old.

Drivers under 21 are also not eligible for a hazardous materials endorsement.

Do I Need to Attend CDL School?

For most first-time Class A and Class B applicants, completing required ELDT through an FMCSA-registered training provider is mandatory.

However, that provider does not have to be a traditional truck driving school. Eligible community colleges, technical programs, and trucking companies may provide training.

Is There a Minimum Number of Hours Required for CDL Training?

Federal ELDT rules do not specify a minimum number of classroom or behind-the-wheel training hours.

Theory students must meet the required knowledge standard, while behind-the-wheel students must demonstrate proficiency in required driving skills.

Individual states and training programs may establish additional requirements.

Can I Get a CDL Without a High School Diploma or GED?

Federal CDL licensing rules generally do not require a high school diploma or GED.

However, individual training programs and trucking employers may have their own education requirements.

Check the admission requirements of your chosen training provider and the hiring standards of prospective employers.

Can I Get a CDL Without Paying for Training?

Possibly. Employer-sponsored CDL programs, workforce grants, and tuition assistance may reduce or cover training expenses.

Review repayment agreements and employment commitments carefully before accepting an offer.

Do I Need a DOT Physical Before Getting My CDL Permit?

Most applicants planning to operate in non-excepted commercial driving must obtain the required medical certification.

Some types of excepted driving have different requirements. Your state licensing agency can explain which medical certification category applies.

What Is the Difference Between a CLP and a CDL?

A commercial learner’s permit (CLP) allows qualified applicants to practice operating a commercial vehicle under required supervision and restrictions.

A commercial driver’s license (CDL) authorizes the holder to operate qualifying commercial vehicles within the scope of the license class, endorsements, restrictions, and applicable regulations.

Can I Get a CDL if I Have a Speeding Ticket or DUI?

A past traffic violation does not automatically disqualify every applicant.

However, certain serious traffic violations, alcohol-related offenses, drug-related offenses, and other disqualifying conduct can prevent someone from obtaining or using a CDL for a specified period or permanently.

Eligibility depends on the offense, driving history, applicable laws, and current licensing status.

Check with your state licensing agency before paying for training if you have concerns about your driving record.

Can I Get a CDL Without Taking a Road Test?

Most first-time CDL applicants must pass the required skills test, including the road test.

Certain qualifying military drivers and applicants covered by specific federal or state exceptions may be eligible for skills-test waivers.

These exceptions are limited and subject to eligibility and documentation requirements.

Can I Get a CDL if I’m Not a U.S. Citizen?

Certain noncitizens are eligible for commercial driver’s licenses.

U.S. lawful permanent residents who meet applicable state residency and licensing requirements may qualify for a standard CDL.

Federal rules effective March 16, 2026, substantially restricted eligibility for non-domiciled CDLs. Under those rules, certain qualifying applicants in H-2A, H-2B, or E-2 nonimmigrant status may be eligible, subject to verification and other requirements.

Lawful presence alone does not necessarily establish eligibility for a non-domiciled CDL.

Consult your state licensing agency and the current FMCSA Non-Domiciled CDL Guidance.

What CDL Restrictions Should I Watch For?

Common restrictions can limit which commercial vehicles you’re permitted to operate.

These include restrictions involving manual transmissions, air brakes, and specific vehicle configurations.

Ask your training provider about possible restrictions before choosing the vehicle used for your skills test.

Can I Find a Trucking Job Immediately After Getting My CDL?

Yes. Some trucking companies hire newly licensed CDL drivers, although others require previous commercial driving experience.

New drivers may qualify for entry-level routes, company training programs, or positions that include supervised driving.

Hiring requirements vary by carrier, equipment type, insurance qualifications, and job responsibilities.

Start by looking for positions that specifically welcome recent CDL graduates.

What’s Next After You Get Your CDL?

Getting your CDL is the first step toward a career in commercial driving. The next is finding a company that fits your experience, career goals, and lifestyle.

Some drivers want long-haul opportunities and the chance to travel across the country. Others prefer regional routes, local deliveries, or positions that allow them to return home more frequently.

Before applying, consider:

• Home time: How frequently do you want to return home?
• Pay: Does the carrier pay by mile, hour, load, salary, or another method?
• Experience requirements: Does the company hire newly licensed drivers?
• Equipment: Are you qualified to operate the vehicles the carrier uses?
• Training: Does the employer provide additional instruction or mentorship?
• Benefits: What insurance, retirement, paid time off, and other benefits are available?

At Truck Drivers USA, you can explore trucking opportunities, learn about different carriers, and find positions that match your qualifications.

Browse Truck Driving Jobs

New to trucking? Start with our guide to Truck Driving Jobs With No Experience and learn what companies look for when hiring new CDL graduates.

Your first trucking job doesn’t have to be your last. The experience you gain can open doors to additional equipment types, specialized freight, better-paying positions, and new opportunities throughout the transportation industry.

Official CDL Resources and Sources

The following government resources provide authoritative information on federal licensing requirements, training, medical certification, and state licensing responsibilities.

1. FMCSA — How Do I Get a Commercial Driver’s License? — Federal CDL application process, learner permits, training, and testing.
2. FMCSA — Entry-Level Driver Training — ELDT applicability, training standards, and exceptions.
3. FMCSA Training Provider Registry — Find registered training providers and review training completion records.
4. FMCSA — CDL Driver Information — License classes, endorsements, and restrictions.
5. FMCSA National Registry II Learning Center — DOT medical certification and electronic reporting requirements.
6. FMCSA — State CDL Information — State licensing information and testing standards.
7. FMCSA — 2026 Non-Domiciled CDL Rules — Current federal eligibility requirements for non-domiciled licenses.
8. Transportation Security Administration — Security screening requirements for hazardous materials endorsements.

Editorial note: This article explains general federal CDL requirements as of November 1, 2026. States issue CDLs and may impose additional requirements. Applicants should verify current licensing procedures, fees, eligibility, and documentation with their state driver licensing agency before applying.