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 behind the wheel, and a medical examination. You cannot jump straight to the road test — you must first hold a valid CDL permit for a set period (usually 14 days minimum, though some states require longer), pass the written exam, and then schedule and pass the driving test with an examiner. The entire process typically takes several weeks to a few months, depending on how quickly you book your tests and how many attempts you need.

Every state runs its own CDL program, so the exact steps, fees, and timing vary where you live. The basic sequence is the same everywhere: get your permit, study and pass the written test, pass the skills test, and submit your medical certificate. You cannot legally drive a commercial vehicle without completing all these steps.

Key Takeaways

  • You must obtain a CDL permit before taking any written or skills tests, and most states require you to hold it for at least 14 days.
  • The written test covers traffic laws, vehicle safety, and cargo handling rules specific to the type of truck or bus you plan to drive.
  • The skills test includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, a backing maneuver, and a 50-minute road drive with an examiner.
  • You need a medical certificate from a FMCSA-certified medical examiner before you can be issued your CDL, and it must be renewed every two years.
  • Costs range from $100 to $300 for the license itself, plus exam fees and medical exam fees, which vary by state.

Getting your CDL permit

Visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent licensing office in person. Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security number or ITIN. You will also need to declare which CDL class you want — Class A (tractor-trailers), Class B (straight trucks or large buses), or Class C (small buses or hazmat vehicles) — because the written test differs for each.

At the DMV, you will pay a permit fee (typically $15 to $50) and take an initial vision and written test to confirm you meet basic requirements. Once you pass, you receive your CDL permit, which is valid for a set period — usually 180 days to one year depending on your state. Some states allow you to take the written knowledge test on the same day you get your permit; others require you to return later.

You must hold your permit for a minimum waiting period before you can take the skills test. Most states require 14 days, but some require 30 or more. Check your state's specific rule when you get your permit, because scheduling the skills test too early will result in a rejected appointment.

Passing the written knowledge test

The written test covers three main areas: general knowledge (traffic laws, vehicle control, hazard awareness), air brakes (if your vehicle has them), and endorsements (hazmat, tanker, doubles, passenger, school bus — depending on what you need). You can take the test at your DMV or at an approved third-party testing center. Most states allow you to take it online or on a computer at the testing site.

You must score at least 80 percent on each section to pass. If you fail, you can usually retake it within a few days, though some states impose a waiting period. Study materials are free on your state's DMV website, and many states offer practice tests online. The test typically takes 60 to 90 minutes.

If you need endorsements — such as Hazmat (H) for hazardous materials or Passenger (P) for buses — you take separate written tests for each. These are required before you can legally haul those cargo types or carry passengers, so do not skip them if your job requires them.

Scheduling and passing the skills test

Once you have held your permit for the required waiting period and passed the written test, you can schedule your CDL skills test. This test has three parts: the pre-trip inspection, the backing maneuver, and the road drive. You must pass all three to pass the test.

The pre-trip inspection takes about 15 minutes. You walk around and inside the truck or bus, pointing out and explaining critical safety components — lights, brakes, tires, mirrors, wipers, and emergency equipment. The examiner is checking that you know what to look for before driving.

The backing maneuver takes about 10 minutes. You perform specific backing tasks — typically a straight-line backup, an offset backup, and a 90-degree alley dock — in a marked course. Cones or lines mark the boundaries, and you must stay within them without hitting anything.

The road drive lasts about 50 minutes. You drive the actual vehicle on public roads or a closed course while the examiner watches and scores your steering, braking, lane changes, mirror checks, and overall vehicle control. You must follow traffic laws exactly and demonstrate smooth, safe driving.

You can take the skills test at your state's DMV, at a third-party testing center, or at a truck driving school. Many schools offer the test on-site after you complete their training program. Fees for the skills test range from $100 to $300 depending on your state and whether you use a school vehicle or bring your own.

Getting your medical certificate

Before your CDL is issued, you must pass a medical examination by a FMCSA-certified medical examiner (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration). This is not your regular doctor — it must be someone on the FMCSA National Registry. You can find certified examiners on the FMCSA website or ask your state's DMV for a list.

The exam checks your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and general health. You will answer questions about your medical history, including any conditions that might affect your ability to drive safely. The exam typically costs $75 to $150. If you pass, the examiner issues a Medical Certificate (also called a Medical Examiner's Certificate or MEC), which is valid for two years.

You must submit this certificate to your state's DMV before your CDL is finalized. Some states allow you to bring it in person; others accept it by mail. Your CDL cannot be issued without it, so do not delay this step.

Costs and timeline

Total costs vary by state but typically range from $200 to $500. This includes the permit fee ($15–$50), written test fee ($10–$50), skills test fee ($100–$300), and medical exam fee ($75–$150). Some states charge additional fees for endorsements or background checks. A few states offer reduced fees for military veterans or low-income applicants — ask your DMV.

The timeline depends on how quickly you book your tests and how many attempts you need. If you pass everything on the first try and your state has short wait times for test appointments, you could complete the process in 4 to 8 weeks. If you need to retake tests or if your state has a backlog of appointments, it can take 3 to 6 months. Plan ahead if you have a job start date.

Renewing and maintaining your CDL

Your CDL is valid for four to eight years depending on your state. When it expires, you must renew it at your DMV. Renewal usually requires passing the written test again (some states waive this if you have a clean record), renewing your medical certificate, and paying a renewal fee.

Your medical certificate expires every two years, even if your CDL does not. You must renew it before it expires or you cannot legally drive commercially. Keep track of your expiration date and schedule a new exam with a certified examiner at least 30 days before it expires.

If you receive certain traffic violations or fail a medical exam, your CDL can be suspended or revoked. Violations like speeding, reckless driving, or driving under the influence carry harsher penalties for CDL holders than for regular drivers. Maintain a clean driving record and stay current on your medical exams to keep your license active.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to attend truck driving school to get a CDL?

No, truck driving school is not required by law. You can study on your own, take the written test, and schedule the skills test independently. However, many people attend school because instructors teach you how to operate the vehicle safely, help you prepare for the tests, and often provide a vehicle for the skills test, which saves you from having to rent one.

What happens if I fail the skills test?

You can retake it, usually within a few days to a week. Most states allow unlimited retakes, though some charge a fee each time. Your permit remains valid during retakes, so you do not have to reapply for it. Many people pass on the second or third attempt, especially if they get professional training between attempts.

Can I get a CDL if I have a DUI or other traffic conviction?

It depends on the conviction and your state's rules. Some convictions disqualify you permanently; others impose a waiting period. Serious violations like DUI, reckless driving, or leaving the scene of an accident may bar you from getting a CDL. Contact your state's DMV to ask about your specific situation before you explore.

How long does the medical exam take?

The exam usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. The examiner checks your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and medical history. If you have any chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, the exam may take longer because the examiner needs more detail. Bring any medications you take and a list of your medical conditions to speed up the process.

What is the difference between a CDL permit and a CDL license?

A permit allows you to practice driving a commercial vehicle with a licensed trainer or supervisor present. A CDL license allows you to drive commercially on your own. You must hold a permit, pass the written test, and pass the skills test before you can get the license. The permit is a step in the process, not the final credential.