CDL Training

Congratulations on taking the first steps to becoming a fully qualified commercial driver!

From a career point of view, a CDL (commercial drivers license) opens up a huge range of possibilities. The good news is that people who’ve been through certified CDL training are in high demand which means your chances of getting a job as a commercial driver are excellent.

Take the time to read our CDL overview below to find out about basic requirements, classes and endorsements to becoming a qualified commercial driver.

We also encourage you to browse through our website and take a closer look at different aspects of becoming a qualified commercial driver. We have pages dedicated to topics including:

CDL Medical Requirements
CDL Costs
CDL Classes
CDL Job Opportunities
CDL Endorsements
And MUCH more!

CDL Training Requirements

CDL training requirements do vary from state to state but the basic requirements are fairly similar. Here are the basic requirements that are common to most states:

You need a current drivers license
You need to be 18 years old for state wide driving and 21 years old for interstate driving
You need a valid social security number (and to be able to show proof)
You must be physically capable to drive
You must pass a medical exam
You need to have residency in the state in which you will be licensed

For a more in depth look at what’s required to get your CDL, check out our CDL Requirements page.

CDL Classes

The CDL training you require also depends on the class of license you want. Three classes exist, Class A, Class B and Class C. The class of license that you have will determine the weight of vehicle you’re able to drive. Find out more about the different Class A, B and C licenses here:

CDL Class A
CDL Class B
CDL Class C

CDL Endorsements

Depending on the type and size of vehicle you intend to drive, additional CDL training may be required to help you attain relevant endorsements. Some of the different CDL endorsements available include:

T – Double/Triple Trailers Endorsement
P – Passenger Endorsement
N – Tank Vehicle Endorsement
H – Hazardous Materials Endorsement
X – Combination of Tank Vehicle and Hazardous Materials Endorsement
S – School Bus Endorsement

Find out more information about commercial drivers license endorsements on our CDL Endorsements page.

CDL Training Schools

Most states have several CDL training schools that take you from stage one of training (theory) right through to your on road examination.

While these schools are not always cheap (prices vary a lot from state to state), they do make the entire process of attaining a commercial drivers license much easier. In addition to giving you expert training and practice, they’ll also often provide you with a vehicle in which to sit your on road examination.

What next?

Continue to read more in depth information about getting your CDL. We recommend you get started with a better understanding of requirements and eligibility rules. Check out the following pages: