Your Step by Step Guide to Getting Your Commercial Driver’s License
Get a CDL - Complete Guide for Each State
We have put together a complete guide to getting a CDL license for each of the states listed below. To learn more about how to get a CDL license in your state, just click on its name.
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Michigan
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- North Carolina
- New Jersey
- New York
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Virginia
- Washington D.C.
- Wisconsin
- West Virginia
4 Basic Steps To Getting A Commercial Driver's License
The requirements to get a CDL are slightly different from each state, but these 4 steps serve as a basic guideline on what to expect. For more on the specific steps, just click on a state name above.
1. Review CDL Requirements
For starters, you should review the CDL Requirements section of the manual to determine if you will qualify for a Commercial Driver's License. Some of these requirements include a minimum age requirement and CDL physical requirements. Meeting these requirements will make sure things go smoothly throughout the entire process of applying for and obtaining a CDL.
2. Get a CDL Permit
Much like getting a regular driver's license, a permit is required to move forward with the steps of obtaining a CDL. You can get a Class A CDL permit by passing series of written exams. In most states, the written tests to get a Class A CDL permit include: General Knowledge, Air Brakes and Combination vehicles. A Commercial Driver's License handbook or manual can be found at the testing site in each state or online.
3. Add CDL Endorsements
Depending on the CDL endorsement you want to obtain, you need to pass the written CDL endorsement test. However, some endorsements, such as the Hazardeous Materials (HazMat) endorsement may also require a background check before they can be added to your CDL license. Consult the CDL endorsements section of the manual for additional information.
4. Take CDL Skills Test
A CDL driving test must be passed in which the driver completes a 3-part exam that includes a pre-trip inspection test, basic control skills test, and driving test at either a state CDL test site or approved 3rd party test site in the testing state. Once the skills test has been passed, a driver can be issued an actual CDL license from his/her state.
Go To CDL Training School
Going to CDL training school is a great way to go about getting a Commercial Driver's License. Many people attempt the do-it-yourself method only to find out it's much more difficult to drive an 18 wheel semi tractor trailer than it seems. By getting CDL training, you will learn the classroom information needed to pass the written CDL exam and get the hands-on training required to pass the skills test. For most people, this makes the process of getting a CDL much easier and greatly improves their chance of success.
Further, Driver Solutions provides a company sponsored CDL training program which not only helps new drivers get a Class A CDL license, but also provides job placement assistance with PAM Transport. This means the driver can learn the skills needed to get a CDL without the upfront burden of school tuition costs AND has a job opportunity available upon completing training!
Click the Graphic Below for a Step By Step CDL Guide!
CDL Training School Locations
Driver Solutions works with CDL training schools located in the hiring areas we serve throughout the United States. We are continuing to form new partnerships and our representatives will always work to find the best location near you. Currently, we're able to help new drivers find truck driving schools to get a Class A CDL in and around the following states:
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Florida
- Georgia
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Michigan
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- North Carolina
- New York
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Virginia
- Washington D.C.
- Wisconsin
- West Virginia
Ready to get started?
Let us help you find a truck driving school near you offering sponsored CDL training so you can get a Class A CDL. Take a few moments to apply online today and you'll be able to schedule a time to speak with a Driver Solutions’ representative about the truck driver job opportunities and CDL training schools in your area!
Want to go through sponsored CDL Training? PAM Transport is a partner with Driver Solutions and they can help you do just that. All you need to do is apply with us and fulfill your 1-year contract with PAM to be on the road to truck driving success.