How to get your CDL: every step, in order (2026)
To get a CDL you choose a license class, get a DOT medical card, pass the knowledge tests for a learner permit, hold the permit at least 14 days, finish entry-level driver training, and pass a three-part skills test. The steps are the same in every state because they come from federal rules; your state sets the fees and runs the tests.
- 21 to drive across state lines; most states allow 18 to 20 for in-state driving.
- The permit must be held 14 days before the skills test.
- Entry-level driver training is required for first-time Class A and B since February 2022.
Getting your CDL in which state?
License classes
| Class A | A combination of vehicles over 26,000 lb, towing more than 10,000 lb. Tractor-trailers. |
| Class B | A single vehicle over 26,000 lb, towing no more than 10,000 lb. Straight trucks, dump trucks, buses. |
| Class C | Smaller vehicles that carry 16 or more people including the driver, or placarded hazardous materials. |
The steps, in order
- Choose your license class and endorsementsMost truck drivers get Class A. Endorsements are extra tests for hazardous materials (H), tank vehicles (N), doubles and triples (T), passengers (P) and school buses (S).
- Meet the age ruleYou must be 21 to drive a commercial vehicle across state lines. Most states let 18 to 20 year olds hold a CDL for driving within the state only.
- Get a DOT medical cardPass a physical with a medical examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry. The certificate is good for up to two years.
- Pass the knowledge tests and get your learner permitTake the written tests at your state's licensing office: General Knowledge for everyone, plus Air Brakes and Combination Vehicles for Class A, and one test per endorsement. Pass them and you get a commercial learner’s permit (CLP). How to pass the permit test.
- Hold the permit for at least 14 daysFederal rules require 14 days with the CLP before you can take the skills test. A CLP lasts up to a year.
- Complete entry-level driver trainingSince February 7, 2022, first-time Class A and B applicants, Class B drivers upgrading to A, and anyone adding the H, P or S endorsement must finish training from a provider on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.
- Pass the skills testThree parts in this order: the vehicle (pre-trip) inspection, basic control skills (backing), and the road test. Fail one and you stop there. The pre-trip checklist.
- Get your CDLPay your state's license fee and your CDL is issued with the class and endorsements you passed.
Pass the knowledge tests first time
Practice questions written from your state's manual, an AI coach that explains every miss, and Mr. Egg's video lessons for the pre-trip inspection.
Get the appHow to get your CDL in your state
The same steps, with the state’s test version, its own rules and its manual:
Every other state’s test version, rules and official manual are on its CDL manual page.
Related guides
Questions people ask
At least the 14 days you must hold the learner permit before the skills test, plus the time to finish entry-level training and book the tests. Training programs vary from a few weeks to a few months.
21 to drive a commercial vehicle across state lines. Most states let drivers 18 to 20 hold a CDL for driving within the state only.
Yes. You need a medical examiner’s certificate from an examiner on the FMCSA National Registry. It is valid for up to two years.
Class A covers combinations over 26,000 lb towing more than 10,000 lb, like tractor-trailers. Class B covers single vehicles over 26,000 lb towing no more than 10,000 lb, like straight trucks and buses.