How to Get Your CDL License: Step-by-Step Process

What you need to do to get a CDL

A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) requires you to pass a written knowledge test, a skills test, and a medical exam — and you must hold a valid regular driver's license first. The process takes weeks to months depending on how quickly you study and schedule tests. Most states require you to pass the written test before you can take the skills test, and some require you to hold a CDL permit for a waiting period in between.

You cannot skip steps or test in a different state to avoid requirements in your home state. Each state has its own CDL rules, test content, and fee structure, so you must follow the process in the state where you hold your regular license or plan to move your license.

Key Takeaways

You must have a valid regular driver's license and pass a Department of Transportation medical exam before you can take any CDL test.
The written knowledge test covers vehicle inspection, safe driving, and cargo handling — content varies by the type of truck or bus you plan to drive.
After passing the written test, you must pass a skills test that includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, a backing maneuver, and an on-road driving test.
Most states require a waiting period between passing the written test and taking the skills test, and some require you to hold a CDL permit during that time.
Fees, test scheduling, and waiting periods differ by state, so contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles before you begin.

Get a medical exam from a certified DOT examiner

Before you take any CDL test, you must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical examination performed by a certified medical examiner. This exam checks your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely. You cannot use your regular doctor — the examiner must be on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, which you can search on the FMCSA website.

The exam costs between $100 and $200 depending on your location and the examiner. If you pass, you receive a Medical Certificate (also called a Medical Examiner's Certificate) that you must bring to your written test. The certificate is valid for two years, so you can take your time studying and scheduling tests without needing a new exam.

Study for and pass the written knowledge test

The written test covers three main areas: general knowledge (safe driving, vehicle inspection, hazard awareness), air brakes (if your truck has them), and endorsement-specific topics (doubles/triples, tanker, hazmat, passenger, school bus). You only take tests for the endorsements you need for your job. Most states require you to pass the general knowledge test before you can take endorsement tests.

Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles publishes a free CDL manual that covers all test content. You can study online, read the manual as a PDF, or pick up a printed copy at your local DMV office. Many people study for two to four weeks, though the time depends on your experience and how much you study each day.

When you are ready, schedule your written test at your state's DMV. Bring your regular driver's license, your Medical Certificate, and proof of your state residency (a utility bill or lease works). The test is usually 50 questions and you must score at least 80 percent to pass. You get your results the same day.

Hold a CDL permit during the waiting period

After you pass the written test, many states require you to hold a CDL permit for a set number of days before you can take the skills test. Some states require 14 days, others require 7 days, and a few have no waiting period. Your state's DMV will tell you the waiting period when you pass your written test.

During this time, you can practice driving the type of truck or bus you plan to operate, but you must have a licensed CDL driver with you in the vehicle. You cannot drive commercially alone on a permit. If your state does not require a permit, you can schedule your skills test when ready after passing the written test.

Schedule and pass the skills test

The skills test has three parts: a pre-trip vehicle inspection, a backing maneuver, and an on-road driving test. You must pass all three to pass the skills test. The test takes about 45 minutes to an hour and is performed by a state-certified examiner who rides with you.

For the pre-trip inspection, you walk around the truck or bus and point out safety-critical parts (lights, brakes, tires, mirrors) while explaining what you are checking and why. The examiner is testing whether you know the vehicle, not whether you can fix it. For the backing maneuver, you back the truck into a tight space following specific lines — this tests your control and spatial awareness. For the on-road test, you drive in normal traffic while the examiner watches your speed, lane changes, turns, and response to hazards.

You can take the skills test at a state DMV office, a third-party testing facility, or a truck driving school, depending on what your state allows. Some states require you to use a state examiner; others let you test through a school or private facility. Contact your DMV to find out where you can test and how to schedule.

Pay fees and get your CDL

CDL fees vary by state and by the number of endorsements you add. A basic CDL written test costs between $20 and $50 in most states. Each endorsement test costs an additional $5 to $15. The skills test costs between $100 and $300 depending on whether you test at a DMV office or a private facility. Your Medical Certificate exam costs $100 to $200.

Once you pass all tests, you pay a CDL issuance fee (usually $20 to $100) and receive your CDL card. Your CDL is valid for four to eight years depending on your state. You must renew it before it expires, and you must pass a new medical exam during renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a CDL if I have a suspended or revoked regular driver's license?

No. You must have a valid regular driver's license to hold a CDL. If your license is suspended or revoked, you must resolve that issue first. Contact your state's DMV to find out what you need to do to restore your license.

Do I have to go to truck driving school to get a CDL?

No, truck driving school is not required. You can study on your own using your state's CDL manual and practice driving with a licensed CDL driver. However, many people attend school because instructors can teach you vehicle control and test-taking strategies, and schools often have trucks available for the skills test.

What happens if I fail the written test or skills test?

You can retake the test after a waiting period set by your state — usually one to seven days. You pay the test fee again each time you retake it. There is no limit on how many times you can retake a test, but each attempt costs money and takes time.

Can I get a CDL in one state and move it to another?

Yes, you can transfer your CDL to another state by explore at your new state's DMV. You will need to pass a written test in the new state and may need a new medical exam depending on when your current certificate expires. Some states have reciprocal agreements that make the transfer faster.

What disqualifies you from getting a CDL?

You cannot get a CDL if you have certain medical conditions (severe vision or hearing loss, uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease), a DUI or reckless driving conviction within a set timeframe, or a suspended or revoked license. Your state's DMV can tell you whether a specific conviction or condition disqualifies you.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.