How Do You Get a CDL Permit?
The trucking industry is the lifeline of our economy. Truck drivers help get goods and products across the country so they can be used by those who need them. Whether you’re transporting grocery items, furniture, or chemicals, truckers can go to work with a smile knowing they are helping make the world a better place for all. Many hopeful drivers know they’ll need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to enter the workforce, but first, you’ll need your commercial learner’s permit (CLP). Turn to the experts at Driving Academy to learn about CDL permit requirements.
What Is a CDL Permit?
A commercial driver’s license requires you to first get your commercial learner’s permit (CLP). This helps ensure you are familiar with the rules of the road and other practical knowledge that will be needed to obtain your CDL. The permit is issued by your state, and its purpose is to authorize you to operate a commercial motor vehicle for training purposes. When operating one of these vehicles with your CLP, you’ll need to be supervised by a valid CDL holder.
Having your CLP allows you to operate many of the same vehicles you’ll have the opportunity to drive once you obtain your CDL, including:
- Tractor-trailers
- Truck and trailer combinations
- Tanker vehicles
- Livestock carriers
- Flatbeds
- Straight trucks
- Large buses
- Box trucks
- Dump trucks
There are certain restrictions, however. You cannot transport any passengers other than the CDL holder you are training with. You’ll also need to wait to operate vehicles that require special endorsements. Lastly, it’s wise to consider the type of vehicles you’re looking to operate professionally and focus your training on those, as different vehicles require different CDL classes.
What Are the CDL Permit Requirements?
Getting your permit requires a few simple procedural steps before you can begin testing. First, you’ll want to get a copy of the CDL Manual and do your research. This is important because you’ll want to explore the vehicles available to you and determine which CDL class best aligns with your interests.
A Class A CDL lets you drive tractor-trailers, flatbeds, tankers, combination vehicles, and more, while a Class B CDL is designed for those who wish to operate straight trucks, box trucks, and buses. There are even endorsements that let you earn more money and drive hazardous materials, liquids, school buses, and more. Certain classes and endorsements will require additional testing, so it’s good to know that ahead of time.
After doing your research, you’ll need to have your driving record for the last 10 years verified in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. You’ll also need to prove you are medically able to operate these vehicles, which can be done by undertaking a DOT physical to obtain your DOT medical card. You’ll also need to pay for your permit and provide 6 points of ID at your state’s DMV.
You will then be able to take the necessary written tests. There are three tests you’ll need to pass to obtain your CLP. First is the general knowledge test, which features 50 questions and requires you to get at least 40 correct (80%). The test has no time limit so you can take your time to help ensure you give each question the thought it requires. This is especially important because failure requires you to wait at least 1 week before trying again.
There are also tests on air brakes and combination vehicles, which help to prove you understand all you’ll need to know before taking your road test.
How to Earn Your Permit from Driving Academy
At Driving Academy, we know there’s a lot to learn when it comes to the world of truck driving. That’s why our team consists of experienced instructors who work with students to make sure they’re ready for life on the road. Our truck driver testing training programs incorporate vehicles and simulators to give you hands-on experience, and we offer flexible scheduling and some online coursework for convenience.
Our programs include full courses, which provide training to help you obtain your CDL permit and your license, as well as half courses, which are designed for those who already have their permit. Our guaranteed CDL training courses provide over 100 hours of training and allow you to take the road test as many times as you need until you pass.
Enroll in CDL School Today
If the CDL permit requirements sound like something you’re ready for, make Driving Academy your training partner. We have the instructors and the tools to help you throughout the entire process, including our practice permit tests. Enrolling at Driving Academy is easy thanks to our affordable payment plans, and we even provide job placement assistance after you’ve completed your testing. Contact us today if you have any questions or are interested in our courses at any of our locations throughout the nation.