Getting a CDL involves several steps. There are medical requirements and residency requirements besides knowledge and skills requirements. Once you've finished getting informed and making decisions, there are three basic steps to getting a CDL: A commercial learner's permit (CLP) is a permit that only authorizes you to practice on public roads with a qualified CDL
holder sitting next to you. Getting the permit involves more than just passing all the knowledge tests for the type of driving you want to do. To make sure that you are eligible your driving record is checked for the last 10 years in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. You need to bring in the proof that your state accepts to show that you are medically qualified. Most types of commercial driving require a DOT medical card, requiring a DOT physical. Your state may require specific
documents it wants to see to prove your name and proof of residency. There are fees for getting the CLP. Reading and following the instructions in your states CDL Manual streamlines the process. Drivers applying for a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time who are issued a CLP on or after February 7, 2022 must complete
entry-level driver training with a registered training provider prior to testing. Some States may have additional requirements above and beyond the Federal training requirements. Note: There is no Federal requirement for drivers to complete their entry-level driver theory training before applying for a CLP. Visit the
Training Provider Registry (https://tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov/) to search for a training provider. Once you have completed training, the provider will electronically submit certification of your training completion to the Training Provider Registry. Drivers may look up their training certification information using the "Check My Record" tool. You are required to possess the CLP for 14 days and complete applicable entry-level driver training to be eligible to take the CDL skills test. You must pass all 3 parts of the Skills Test: the Vehicle Inspection Test, the Basic Controls Test, and the Road Test. Your state may even allow you to use their “training aid” to help you remember items on the vehicle inspection checklist. Taking the skills test is no guarantee that you will pass. Once
you have passed the skills test you need to take the documentation to the counter for processing. Some States will give you the CDL that same day, while others send it to you in the mail. Regardless make sure that everything is correct before you leave the counter. It can be costly and embarrassing if you find a mistake later. Note: FMCSA issued a waiver for certain CDL requirements, effective December 1, 2020 through February 28, 2022.
Learn more Any summary, description, or paraphrase of a regulatory requirement on this site is intended to provide general guidance only. Please consult the text of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations for a full account of the applicable requirements. FMCSA does not issue
Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs). State governments are responsible for issuing CDLs. Last updated: Thursday, February 10, 2022
Understanding the requirements needed and the effort involved in obtaining a Class B license can help you organize and create a reasonable plan to achieve your career goals. In this article, we will identify Class B licenses, who use these licenses, the requirements to apply for a Class B license, and the process for you to become a Class B license holder. What is a CDL Class B License?A Class B commercial driver’s license (CDL) allows drivers to operate vehicles with a GVWR greater than 26,001 pounds, as well as towing a trailer with a GVWR under 10,000 pounds. With the correct endorsements, those who possess a Class B license may also drive CDL Class C vehicles but not CDL Class A vehicles. Class B license holders may be able to operate:
Minimum Requirements for Class B License
Required documents
How to Get Your CDL Class B License?The process to obtain a Class B license is as below: 1. Research your state’s requirements Since each state may have its own specific requirements for qualifying an individual to earn a Class B commercial driver’s license, it is crucial for you to take the time to research the requirements of your state to determine your eligibility. You can find this information by visiting your state’s motor vehicle association’s website. 2. Get your commercial learner’s permit (CLP) You can apply for a commercial learner’s permit by going to your local DMV. Firstly, you should review the online study materials offered through your state’s MVA website because you will have to complete a variety of written exams covering topics from general traffic laws, air brakes and types of endorsements. After completing and passing these exams, you will receive your CLP and be able to start test driving. 3. Undergo a screening process As a part of your licensing process, it’s required for you to go through a number of screenings to determine your ability to drive Class B vehicles. Since Class B drivers can transport hazardous materials and operate school buses or public transit vehicles, you will have to be fingerprinted, and likely pay a fee to get a background check done. 4. Obtain a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical ability card As a part of the screening process, you must also undergo a physical examination through the DOT in your state. They will evaluate your hearing, vision, color vision, heart health and blood pressure to deem if you are physically fit to operate a commercial vehicle. Once passing your physical, you can receive the medical examiner’s certificate. You are expected to complete annual physicals to ensure that you are still fit to operate a commercial vehicle. 5. Attend a CDL program This is optional but it can be extremely beneficial in preparing for your final examinations. In addition to the practice hours devoted to driving a Class B vehicle, you will also receive in-class instruction on important components such as air brakes, truck mechanics and traffic laws. Check your state’s DOT website for the available programs and required fees. 6. Complete the written exam and driver’s test The Commercial Driver’s License test consists of 3 exams to determine your knowledge of the type of vehicle you’d drive and your state’s traffic laws. You will have to pass a driver’s test as a part of the exam. Once passing, you are officially a Class B license holder. You will need to be aware of your state’s requirements to renew and update your license through continuing education courses. Taking CDL practice tests is an important part of the exam preparation process. Let’s get started with our free CDL practice test pack for all 51 states on this website if you’re planning to obtain your own Class B license. Let’s get started right away! General Knowledge Test All CDL drivers have to pass the CDL General Knowledge test. This test has 50 multiple-choice questions, in which the major topics include CDL requirements rules, safe driving, safe cargo transportation, and pre-trip vehicle inspections. The US Government requires all of the states have minimum standards for the commercial driver’s license. As the federal government provides these standards, CDL tests vary from state to state. You must hold a valid driver’s license and pass the CDL general knowledge test to obtain a CDL. If the vehicle you are driving requires an endorsement, you will need to pass an endorsement test. For instance, you will need to pass a hazmat endorsement test if your vehicle has hazardous materials. Air Brakes If you wish to drive a truck or bus with air brakes or tow a trailer with air brakes, you must pass the Air brakes endorsement examination. The air brakes test has 25 multiple-choice questions, its topics include parts of air brakes system, dual air brakes, air brake systems inspecting, and air brakes using. Air brakes make the brakes work by using compressed air. Air brakes are considered a good and safe way to stop large and heavy vehicles, but they must be well maintained and used properly. The Air brakes exam covers the air brakes system, proper use of the system, and inspection of the system. Pre-Trip Inspection During the pre-trip inspection, you must demonstrate that the vehicle is safe to drive. You will have to walk around the vehicle and touch or point to each item then explain to the examiner what and why you are checking. You will not have to crawl under the hood or vehicle. You can find more information about all CDL Classes and their restrictions to know which class is suitable for you. 7. Consider CDL endorsements for operating specific vehicles Class B license holders can acquire the following endorsements by completing a written test and a road skills test in some cases. On the CDL website, you can find more information about these endorsements.
Jobs Outlook for a Class B Driver’s LicenseThe employment prospects for Class B license holders are looking good. For example, if you wanted to be a bus driver, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 5% growth in employment through 2028. Delivery truck drivers are also projected to see a 5% growth in employment through 2029. Therefore, you should have plenty of options whatever Class B license career you wish to try for. What are the requirements for a Class B license in California?To obtain a California CDL – Class B License , you have to be at least twenty-one years old and not have had your regular driver's license suspended by the California Department of Transportation. Next, you have to apply to get your Permit, which is covered by the entire United States.
How do I get my Class B license in Florida?How Do You Obtain a Commercial Driver License From the State of Florida?. Possess a Florida driver's license.. Pass the appropriate knowledge exams.. Pass a vision test.. Provide proof of identity and residency. ... . Pass the Division of Driver Licenses medical exam.. Submit to a driving record review. ... . Pay the appropriate fee.. How do I get a Class B CDL in Arkansas?What are the Qualifications to Obtain an Arkansas CDL?. Be at least 18 years old to drive in-state.. Be at least 21 years old to drive interstate, outside of Arkansas.. Have a valid regular driver's license.. Have obtained your Conditional Learner's Permit (CPL). How do I get my CDL B in Michigan?Trainee Requirements. Be age 21 or older to drive a CMV across state lines (interstate) or 18 years of age or older to drive a CMV in Michigan.. Pass a pre-enrollment drug screen.. Complete and pass the DOT physical.. Pass a CDL eligibility check.. Agree to a background check.. Be able to read and speak the English fluently.. |