CDL Requirements

CDL Requirements

Driving a commercial motor vehicle is a big responsibility. It requires special skills and knowledge. Most drivers must obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) through their home State (it is illegal to have a license from more than one State).

In addition, special endorsements may be required if you or your company drivers will be driving any of the following vehicles:

* A truck with double or triple trailers

* A truck with a tank

* A truck carrying hazardous materials

* A passenger vehicle

Here a list of useful links that have greater detail on CDL general requirements and special endorsements;

Commercial Driver’s License Program

http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration-licensing/cdl/cdl.htm

Drug and Alcohol Testing

www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/topics/drug/engtesting.htm

Hours of Service Regulations

www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/topics/hos/index.htm

The USA Patriot Act changed the requirements for issuance of a new, renewal, or transfer of CDL Hazmat endorsement on a Commercial Driver License (CDL) document. All new and renewal CDL Hazmat endorsement applicants are required to complete the required Hazardous Materials Endorsement Application and fingerprint collection process through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) data collection vendor and be approved by TSA prior to issuance of a CDL with a Hazmat endorsement.

New drivers may be issued a temporary CDL without a Hazmat endorsement, pending the background checks. Drivers renewing or transferring a Hazmat endorsement (“H” or “X”) are also required to complete the application and fingerprint collection process at least 30 days prior to their expiration date to initiate the TSA.

Learn more about CDL Requirements here »

CDL Test Video