- Check your Eligibility
If you’re between 18 and 21 years old, you are eligible to get a CDL license. You need to be 21 or older to operate outside your state.
- Enroll in a trucking school
Research for a truck driving school and enroll for appropriate program. Attend the classes and learn the rules, laws and regulations.
- Complete a CDL Learner’s Permit Application
Your driving school might cover this part in their program, but anyway, you will need to complete a CDL Learner’s Permit Application before you get your CDL. The CLP is needed in order to practice your driving skills in your state.
- Pass the CDL General Knowledge Test
Pass the general knowledge test after applying for CDL Learner’s Permit.
- Learn and Practice
You need to practice driving a truck with a licensed instructor, and attend on classes that typically last for 300 hours. In this step, you need to complete your training and classes, since it’s FMCSR requirement.
- Take the final tests
You need to have your learner’s permit for at least two weeks before taking the final tests. Requirements may be different from state to state. You need to take road test, basic controls test, vehicle inspection and endorsements.
- Get your CDL
After passing your final tests, you will be issued a CDL license. After taking it, you can apply for a CDL job and hit the road.