One of the questions we hear all the time is whether you need a high school diploma to get your CDL and start training.
NO, you don’t need a high school diploma or GED to get a CDL.
The requirements to get a CDL license is based on age, licensing, medical qualification, training and passing the required truck driving tests.
Here’s the best part, when it comes to CDL licenses academic background doesn’t matter.
Every student’s situation is different. If you want help understanding whether you can move forward with CDL training, contact Driving Academy and talk with an advisor today.
What You Do Need To Get A CDL?
If you want a CDL, the bigger things to focus on are the actual licensing steps.
1. Age requirements
Federal rules say that before getting a Commercial Learner’s Permit, a person must be 18 years old or older and provide proof of age. Learn more about the Age Requirement for getting a CDL.
2. Knowledge testing
Federal rules also say you must pass the required general knowledge test for the type of commercial vehicle you expect to operate. FMCSA requries CDL applicants must pass both the knowledge test and the skills test in order to get a CDL.
3.Entry-Level Driver Training
Since 2022, ELDT applies to people who are obtaining a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time, upgrading from Class B to Class A, or getting certain endorsements for the first time.
This is the yard and theory training that you must do at a FMCSA approved school like Driving Academy.
4. Medical Qualification
Drivers subject to the federal medical rules must also be medically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. In short they must be able to pass a DOT physical.
Some Trucking Companies May Still Want High School Graduates
Even if the federal government doesn’t require a diploma for you to obtain CDL itself, some employers may still prefer one when they hire truck drivers.
So not having a diploma may not stop you from getting a CDL, but it could affect your job hunting journey.
For those without a GED it just means you may need to put in a bit more effort on searching for employer who doesn’t require one, so you can start making a better living.
What To Do Next if You Don’t Have a Diploma?
If you do not have a diploma or GED, don’t assume your trucking career is over.
All you’ve got to do is make sure you can meet the federal CDL steps: age, testing, training, and medical qualification.
After you get your CDL you can worry if a specific employer has any extra rules of their own.
If you want help understanding your CDL path, contact Driving Academy and speak with an advisor about your options. We have free job placement assistance that might help you out!
FAQs About Getting a CDL Without a Diploma
Luckily no you don't need to graduate high school to get your diploma. Federal CDL rules focus on age, testing, training, and medical qualification rather than a HS diploma requirement.
Yes! Not having a GED does not block you from getting a CDL.
Some do. Even when the CDL itself does not require one, some employers may still prefer or require a diploma or GED when hiring.
You usually need to meet age requirements, pass the required tests, complete ELDT when applicable, and meet medical standards.
