How to Get a Commercial Vehicle License (CDL): Your Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

Are you hoping to drive big trucks? Do you want to work with semi-trailers? You need to get a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). This guide will help you learn how to get one!

What is a CDL?

A CDL is a special license. You need it to drive big commercial vehicles. These include:

• Trucks
• Buses
• Tractor-trailers
• Vehicles that carry dangerous items

If you want to drive a tractor unit for semi-trailer towing, you need a CDL!

CDL Classes and Types

There are three main types of CDL:

Age Rules for Getting a CDL

How old must you be?

• 18 years old: To drive only in your state
• 21 years old: To drive between states or carry dangerous items

Step 1: Make Sure You Meet Basic Requirements

Before you start, check if you can get a CDL:

• Have a regular driver’s license
• Pass a background check
• Have a clean driving record
• Be healthy enough to drive big vehicles
• Live in the state where you apply

Step 2: Get a Medical Exam

You need to show you are healthy! Get a DOT physical exam from a doctor who is on the FMCSA list.

Starting in June 2025, your exam results will go right to the FMCSA system – no more paper forms!

Step 3: Study for the Tests

You need to pass knowledge tests before you drive. Study these things:

• General CDL rules
• Air brakes (if your vehicle has them)
• Combination vehicles (for Class A)
• Special loads (if you’ll carry them)

You can get study guides from your local DMV.

Step 4: Apply for Your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

Now you need a learner’s permit first:

1. Go to your state DMV
2. Fill out the CDL application
3. Show your medical card
4. Pay the fee ($50-$200 in most states)
5. Take the written tests

After you pass, you’ll get your CLP! You must practice with a licensed CDL driver next to you.

Step 5: Get the Right Training

For Class A or B licenses, you must get training from FMCSA-approved schools . This training includes:

• Classroom learning
• Practice inspections
• Driving practice
• Safety rules

Training Costs

CDL training costs $1,500 to $8,000 depending on:

Step 6: Practice Your Skills

With your permit, you can practice:

• Pre-trip checks
• Basic control skills
• Road driving
• Parking
• Backing up

If you’ll drive an electric truck or a heavy-duty towing truck, you might get special training on these newer vehicles too!

Step 7: Take Your Skills Test

After practice time (usually 14 days with your permit), you can take your skills test. You must bring the right type of vehicle for your CDL class:

• Class A: Bring a combination vehicle (tractor-trailer)
• Class B: Bring a heavy single vehicle
• Class C: Bring the right vehicle for your needs

The test has three parts:

1. Pre-trip inspection – checking your vehicle
2. Basic controls – turning, backing up, parking
3. Road test – driving in traffic

Step 8: Get Your CDL License

After you pass all tests:

1. Go to the DMV
2. Pay the fee
3. Get your CDL!

CDL Special Endorsements

Want to drive special vehicles? You need endorsements:

More people are getting HAZMAT endorsements now to drive fuel tanker trucks for delivery.

CDL Renewal and Requirements

Your CDL won’t last forever! You must:

• Renew every 4-5 years
• Keep passing medical exams
• Follow all driving rules
• Report any driving tickets
• Keep your driving record clean

New Rules for 2025

Important new rules for 2025:

1. Medical exam results go straight to FMCSA (starting June 2025)
2. More EV and self-driving truck training in many states
3. Driver Qualification File must show your medical examiner is FMCSA-approved

How to Pick the Right CDL for You

Not sure which CDL you need? Think about:

• What will you drive? Big rigs need Class A
• How far will you drive? Between states needs interstate CDL
• What will you carry? Dangerous stuff needs endorsements

Success Stories

Many people get CDLs every year! They drive:

• Long-haul trucks across the country
• Delivery trucks in cities
• School buses for children
• Material handling vehicles for warehouses

Cost Summary

Here’s what most people pay for a CDL:

Test Yourself: Are You Ready?

Check if you know these things:

•  Three CDL classes
•  Medical exam rules
•  Required documents
•  Skills test parts
•  Endorsement codes

Final Tips for Success

1. Study hard for all tests
2. Practice driving with an expert
3. Get rest before your tests
4. Check your vehicle carefully
5. Follow all rules

Want to drive truck-mounted cranes or other special trucks? Start your CDL journey now!

Common Questions

Start your journey to drive big trucks today! With the right training and tests, you can join the proud group of CDL drivers.