The Process of Gaining a CDL

Steps in Getting a Commercial Driver’s License

Once you have decided driving a commercial vehicle is in your future, you must gain the proper licensing required for the type and class of vehicle you plan to operate. No matter the vehicle class, your journey will start at the Department of Motor Vehicles, the DMV.

Step One: Gaining your Learner’s Permit

The first material step in the process is gaining your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). The permit is earned by demonstrating your knowledge at the DMV on a series of written or oral exams. Download and study the Florida CDL Handbook.

The following lists the tests to be completed depending on the class of vehicle:

Class A CDL

The Class A commercial driver’s license is required to operate trucks or truck combinations with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, and towing a anything over 10,000 pounds. Tests include:

General Knowledge Test
Combination Vehicles Test
Air Brakes Test (if applicable)
Other tests for desired endorsements (Tank Vehicles, etc.)

Class B CDL

The Class B commercial driver’s license is required to operate straight trucks and buses with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, or any such vehicle towing another vehicle not in excess of 10,000 pounds GVWR. Tests include:

General Knowledge Test
Air Brakes Test (if applicable)
Other tests for desired endorsements (Passenger, School Bus, etc.)

Class C CDL

The Class C commercial driver’s license is required to operate vehicles transporting placarded amounts of hazardous materials, or vehicles designed to transport 16 or more people including the driver, with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of less than 26,001 lbs. Tests include:

General Knowledge Test
Other tests for desired endorsements (Passenger, etc.)

Step Two: Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT)

After you pass the required knowledge tests and earn your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires the successful completion entry level training for those pursuing a license to drive a commercial motor vehicle.

ELDT training has two separate and complementary stages, ELDT Theory and Behind-the-Wheel. Once you acquire your Commercial Learner's Permit, you can begin the theory portion of the ELDT followed by the Behind the Wheel portion of the ELDT program.

Trainees must score at least 80% on written assessments. Instructors must document proficiency in specific, required maneuvers and vehicle control skills.

The ELDT training will prepare you for the formal Basic Skills tests.

Step Three: The Skills Test

Once you have successfully completed your Entry Level Driver Training, you are now ready to move to the formalized CDL basic skills tests (provided you are otherwise eligible*).

The Skills Tests are administered by certified, third party Commercial Driver’s License testers; the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) does NOT administer these tests.

The CDL Skills Test consists of three segments: Vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take the segments in the order listed and must pass each one before moving to the next. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed.

Skills Test Preparation

*A minimum of 14 days must pass from the date of your original permit issue date before you are eligible to take the Skills Test (a 2nd issued CLP does not require a 14 day wait). This period of time is best spent studying and practicing for the Skills Test. Recommended ways to prepare for the Skills Tests are:

Watch the appropriate CDL Skills Test videos.
One-on-One behind the wheel hourly vehicle training (Call Mike at, (352)302-0903, or email him at crystalrivercdl@gmail.com for scheduling).

All three Skills Tests MUST be successfully completed prior to your Commercial Learner’s Permit expiration date.

Day of the Skills Test

Arrive a minimum of 15 minutes prior to scheduled test time.
Ensure you bring the documents provided by the DMV (unexpired Commercial Learner’s Permit, etc.)
Method of payment for each of the Skills Tests.

Step Four: CDL Issuance

Once you have successfully completed the first three steps, the certified third party CDL testing facility will provide you with the documentation the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will need to issue your new license. Recommended next steps:

Brush your teeth, and comb/brush your hair.
Take the documentation to your DMV
Have your picture taken while looking your best!
Put that new, well earned Commercial Driver’s License in your wallet.
Start a career that will keep you moving!