All about getting your CDL in 2026 — step-by-step guide

Few careers offer the path to a stable, well-paid job as directly as commercial driving. The training for Class A CDL long-haul truck drivers and Class B CDL local straight truck drivers is on a federally-regulated mystic career path that guarantees their safety while driving.

The guide establishes all required steps for obtaining a commercial driver license (CDL) which includes eligibility requirements federal training medical standards permit examinations and practical driving assessment and license issuance procedures.  

👉Our article about How to get a CDL in 2026 contains multiple links which direct readers to official FMCSA and state resources throughout its content.

Who is eligible to get a CDL?

Before you begin, you must meet certain requirements that are based on federal and state laws:

✔️ Age

• 18 years old — CDL valid within your home state only.
• You must be at least 21 years old to obtain an interstate commercial driver’s license (CDL) valid for hazardous materials (HazMat) and transporting passengers.

✔️ Valid Credentials

• You must possess no more than one current driver’s license issued by any jurisdiction of the United States. 
• Your driver’s license can’t be suspended, revoked, disqualified or cancelled.

✔️ Identity & Legal Presence

You’ll have to show ID with photo that proves not only who you are, but also your legal presence in the U.S. Acceptable documents include:

• U.S. Passport or U.S. Birth Certificate
• Green Card (Lawful Permanent Resident)
• Valid state driver’s license
• Other acceptable ID as specified by your state DMV

Please note that birth certificates issued outside the U.S. and without legal supporting documents are deemed invalid and hence not accepted.

✔️ English Proficiency

You need to be able to read and speak English as required by CDL tests and safety.

✔️ Clean Driving History 

Certain serious offenses, such as driving under the influence, could disqualify you from getting a CDL. 

Federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) 

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has mandated that new CDL-A and CDL-B drivers must complete the Entry Level Driver Training in order to sit for the Commercial Driver’s License Skills test.

ELDT Overview:

ELDT ensures consistent training across all providers so new drivers have standardized safety knowledge before taking the skills exam.

Core ELDT subjects include:

• Basic control and vehicle inspections
• Safe operating procedures
• Advanced driving techniques
• Transporting cargo safely
• Hazard recognition

ELDT is usually delivered in modules — you can complete lessons and quizzes as you go.

When you have completed the ELDT theory components, you are to notify your provider to enter the completed training into the FMCSA database (TPA — Training Provider Agency).

Important: Once you have completed the ELDT program, you are expected to submit the results to the FMCSA within 48 hours to ensure that your CLP remains valid.

➡️ Official FMCSA ELDT info:
https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/entry-level-driver-training-eldt 

DOT Medical Exam

Prior to driving commercially, one has to have a medical certificate from a certified medical examiner.

What you must do:

• Schedule a DOT physical examination with a certified medical examiner on the FMCSA National Registry. Bring your ID and medical history
• Pass vision, blood pressure, and overall health requirements

➡️ Find a certified examiner:
https://nationalregistry.fmcsa.dot.gov/

You must carry your DOT Medical Card whenever driving a commercial vehicle.

Apply for Your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

Once your ELDT and medical exam are complete, you can apply for your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) at the DMV.

What you must bring:

• Valid driver’s license
• DOT medical card
• Proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, Green Card)
• Proof of residency

Self-Certification

You’ll complete a form stating the type of driving you plan to do (interstate/intrastate).

Where to Apply

Visit your local DMV office in person. CLPs cannot be obtained online.

Pass the Written Knowledge Tests

To get your CLP, you must pass the written knowledge exams. The exact tests depend on whether you are pursuing Class A or Class B:

Class A Written Tests:

✔ General Knowledge — 50 questions
✔ Combination Vehicles — 20 questions
✔ Air Brakes — 25 questions
(40/50, 16/20, 20/25 = passing)

Class B Written Tests:

✔ General Knowledge — 50 questions
✔ Air Brakes — 25 questions
(40/50, 20/25 = passing)

You may take tests on the same day or different days.

👉 Training school sites or DMV portals may have practice tests and study materials.

Start Practical Training

Once you have your CLP, practical training begins.

Pre-Trip Inspection (PTI)

You’ll learn how to inspect your vehicle for safety — mechanical issues, equipment checks, brake systems, lights, tires, etc.

Basic Control Skills

Training includes:

• Backing maneuvers
• Parking techniques
• Steering and positioning
• Vehicle control

On-Road Driving

You’ll practice driving in:

• City traffic
• Highways
• Intersections
• Emergency stops
• Road rules and signage

Your instructor will track your progress and sign off on your readiness.

CDL Skills Test

When your instructor signs you off:

• Schedule the CDL skills test at your DMV/testing site
• You’ll demonstrate:
  • Pre-trip inspection
  • Basic vehicle control
  • On-road driving skills

Passing this exam earns you the full CDL.

After passing, the examiner updates your status in the state system. Your test results are typically processed within 3–14 business days. After that, you can visit your local DMV to receive your physical license.

What Happens After You Get Your CDL

Your License

You must carry, at all times:

• Driver’s license
• CLP/Temporary license (if still applicable)
• DOT Medical Card

Employment

Many training providers (including Start CDL) offer job placement assistance — meaning support in connecting with carriers, recruiters, and job opportunities right after graduation.

Helpful Resources (Official)

Topic	Official Link
ELDT Federal Requirements	https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/entry-level-driver-training-eldt
FMCSA Medical Examiner Registry	https://nationalregistry.fmcsa.dot.gov/
CDL Manual (State DMVs)	Varies by state (search “YourState DMV CDL Manual”)
DOT Commercial Vehicle Info	https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/

Summary — What You Need to Know

1. Meet eligibility requirements
2. Complete ELDT training
3. Pass DOT medical exam
4. Pass written knowledge tests
5. Get your CLP
6. Complete practical training
7. Pass your CDL road skills test
8. Start working with job support

This path is structured, regulated, and designed for safety and success. With focus and the right guidance, you can go from beginner to commercial driver in a matter of weeks