How to Get a CDL (2026)

Step 1 — Choose your class and endorsements

Start by deciding what you actually want to drive, because it determines every test and training requirement that follows.

• Class A — combination vehicles (like a tractor-trailer) with a combined weight rating of 26,001 lb or more and a towed unit over 10,000 lb.
• Class B — a single vehicle rated 26,001 lb or more, such as a straight truck or large bus.
• Class C — smaller vehicles that carry 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or placarded hazardous materials.

A Class A generally lets you also drive Class B and C vehicles with the right endorsements. On top of your class, you may needendorsements — extra credentials for hazmat, passenger, school bus, tanker, or doubles/triples. Sort this out first: seeCDL classes: A, B and C andCDL endorsements explained.

Step 2 — Meet the eligibility rules

Two things decide whether you can even start: your age and your existing license.

• Age 18 lets you get a CDL to drive intrastate (within your own state).
• Age 21 is required to drive interstate (across state lines) or to haul hazardous materials.
• You need a valid regular driver’s license first — the CDL builds on it.

The exact intrastate minimum age and residency documents you need are set by your state. See the full breakdown of federal-versus-state rules on our CDL requirements page.

Step 3 — Get a DOT physical and medical card

Before you can be certified to drive commercially, you must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical. The exam has to be done by a medical examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry. If you pass, you get a medical examiner’s certificate (medical card), valid for up to 24 months — sometimes less, depending on your health.

Many drivers get the physical early so their medical card is ready when they apply for the permit. We only describe the regulatory standard here, not medical advice: see the DOT physical andthe CDL medical card.

Step 4 — Complete ELDT with a registered provider

If this is your first Class A or B CDL, an upgrade from Class B to A, or a first hazmat, passenger, or school-bus endorsement, federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) is required. It has been mandatory since February 7, 2022.

The single most important detail: your training providermust be listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry, or the training does not count and you will not be allowed to test. There is no federal minimum number of hours — ELDT is proficiency-based. Read the full explanation on our ELDT guide, and compare your options on CDL training paths.

Step 5 — Pass the knowledge tests and get your CLP

Next, pass the written general knowledge test (plus any endorsement knowledge tests you need) at your state licensing agency. When you pass, you receive a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). The CLP lets you practice driving a commercial vehicle — but only when a qualified CDL holder is in the front seat with you.

The best way to walk in ready is to practice the real question types first. Try our free CDL practice test, and learn exactly how the permit works on theCDL permit (CLP) guide.

Step 6 — Hold the CLP for 14 days and practice

Federal law requires you to hold your CLP for at least14 days before you can take the CDL skills test. Some states require longer, but 14 days is the national floor. Use this window to practice the behind-the-wheel skills you will be tested on — backing, turning, and the pre-trip inspection — with a CDL holder supervising.

Your CLP is valid for up to one year. Details of the accompaniment rule and which endorsements a permit can carry are on theCDL permit guide.

Step 7 — Pass the skills test

The CDL skills test has three parts, and you take them in this order:

1. Pre-trip inspection — you walk the examiner through checking the vehicle and explain what you are inspecting and why.
2. Basic control skills — controlled maneuvers such as straight-line backing, offset backing, and parking.
3. On-road driving test — driving in real traffic while the examiner scores your control, awareness, and judgment.

Depending on your state, this test may be given by the state agency or by an approved third-party tester (often the same school where you trained). Check your state page below to see which applies.

Step 8 — Get your CDL

Once you pass all three parts of the skills test and pay your state’s licensing fee, your state issues your commercial driver’s license. Any endorsements you qualified for are printed on the license. From here you are legally able to drive the class of vehicle you were tested in — and you must keep your medical card current to stay certified.