How to get your class a permit

How to get your class a permit

If you want to operate a heavy rig like a tractor-trailer or a bus, you need a commercial driver’s license (CDL). To get the license, you must first take a training course, receive on-the-road supervised driving instruction, take a written and a driving test, and pay the necessary fees. You also need to be over age 18 or 21, depending on the state issuing the license.  

Each state issues its own CDLs and has its own rules and regulations governing the operation of commercial vehicles in that state. When practicing for a class A license, use course materials and a training program specific to the state where you will apply for the license. 

Types of Class A Driver’s Licenses

Each state has its own categories and labels for driver’s license classes, but in most states, a Class A license is needed for operating a vehicle with two or more axles, such as a semi-truck or tractor-trailer. 

  • Class A licenses generally allow the driver to operate vehicles with a gross weight of more than 26,000 pounds with a towed vehicle rated over 10,000 pounds.
  • Class B CDLs allow drivers to operate vehicles over 26,000 pounds that do not have a trailer over 10,000 pounds. 
  • Class C CDLs are for drivers of vehicles transporting 16 or more passengers, Class C drivers included, as well as the transportation of hazardous materials.

Class A License Training

Training for a CDL involves both written study materials and on-the-road training. To do the road skills training, the applicant must first have a Commercial Driver’s Instruction Permit. You cannot use a passenger car driver’s license while you learn to drive an 18-wheeler on the road. Check the requirements in your state for commercial instruction permits. 

CDL training courses vary in content from state to state, depending on the specific rules and regulations regarding commercial driving in that state. In some states, such as California, a CDL is only issued if driving a vehicle is required by the applicant’s employment, and a driver must have a CDL for any job requiring driving, even if they do not operate a commercial vehicle. 

Find an approved CDL training program with learner’s permit class in the state where you plan to apply for the license, so you receive the correct training. 

Applying for a Class A License at DMV

To apply for a CDL at the DMV, you will need to:

  • Understand the CDL requirements for your state. This may include restrictions on age and physical condition.
  • Apply for and receive a CDL instruction permit from DMV in your state by passing a written exam and having a valid class C license. 
  • Apply for any CDL endorsements, such as special permits needed for transporting hazardous materials. Backgrounds checks may be required for endorsements.
  • Take a CDL driving test at an approved CDL DMV location or a 3rd party testing facility.

What You Can Do with a Class A License

A commercial driver’s license opens many job opportunities. You can work for yourself in your own private transportation company, or, find a job working for another company. Besides driving a big-rig, a CDL is also needed by highway maintenance technicians, engineering equipment operators, bus drivers, and delivery drivers.

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Estimated reading time:3 minutes  

One of the steps to becoming a truck driver is obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Getting your CDL involves meeting certain requirements, completing a CDL training course, getting behind-the-wheel experience and more. 

But you may be wondering, “What do I need to know to get a CDL?” 

Below, we’ll explain what you should know before obtaining one and provide a step-by-step process on how to get your CDL. 

How to get your CDL 

1. Pass the age requirements. 

Most states allow you to obtain a CDL at the age of 18. But most trucking companies only hire drivers who are at least 21 years old.  

This is because truck drivers who are 21 years of age or older can cross state lines, while those younger than 21 can only drive within one state. 

2. Get a CLP. 

A commercial learner’s permit (CLP) enables you to practice driving semi-trucks.  

Some truck driving schools require you to have a CLP before starting their course, while others help you get the permit while attending class. 

But before you can know what CDL permit requirements to expect, you’ll need to figure out what truck driving school you want to attend. 

3. Attend a CDL program. 

To earn a CDL, you will have to attend a truck driving school or a community college.  

Trucking school programs last about three weeks, while a program at a community college usually lasts about six weeks. 

Your CDL program will consist of classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. 

If you’re curious about what options you have when it comes to paying for CDL training, you can check out our blog outlining the costs associated with getting your CDL or visit our paid CDL training web page. 

4. Pass a knowledge exam and skills test. 

The knowledge exam is online and tests what you know about commercial driving based on information in the CDL manual.  

The skills test consists of three portions:  

  1. Vehicle inspection. 
  2. Basic controls. 
  3. Road test. 

5. Have the necessary documentation. 

The documentation required to obtain a CDL varies by state, but you can expect to prove your identity with the following:  

  • Valid non-commercial driver’s license. 
  • Social Security card or Social Security number. 
  • Birth certificate or valid U.S. passport. 
  • Permanent resident card (if you are not an American citizen). 

6. Pass a background screen and undergo a physical. 

To obtain a CDL, you will need to pass a DOT medical exam.  

You can learn how to start preparing for your physical by reading our top five tips on how to pass a DOT physical. 

You will also have to pass all applicable background screens. 

7. Be aware of any additional requirements. 

Some states have extra requirements and restrictions to obtaining a CDL, such as felony restrictions.  

Check with your Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to see your state’s specific CDL requirements. 

How much is a CDL permit in Florida?

CDL Fees by State.

How do you get a Class A license in Florida?

The following tests are required:.
Knowledge Tests. General Knowledge Test. Combination Vehicles Test. Air Brakes Test (if applicable, most Class A vehicles are equipped with Air Brakes but not all) Applicable exams for desired endorsements..
Skills Tests. Pre-trip Vehicle Inspection. Basic Vehicle Control. On-road Test..

How do I get a Class A license in MN?

Driver's License - Class A - Commercial Driver – Apply.
Proof of citizenship or permanent residency (U.S. passport, birth certificate, permanent residency card). ... .
Commercial Driver's License Medical Self-Certification form..
Valid Medical Examiner Certificate (if applicable).

What do I need to get my CDL permit in Florida?

Drivers who wish to obtain a commercial driver license (CDL) or commercial learner permit (CLP) in Florida are required to have a valid Class E Florida driver license, meet minimum vision requirements, and provide their Social Security Number per Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations.