Download ArticleDownload ArticleThis article was co-authored by Bruce Storrs and by How.com.vn staff writer, Janice Tieperman. Bruce Storrs is a Driving Instructor and the President & CEO of North County School of Driving in San Marcos, California. With more than 31 years of experience, he specializes in teaching teens and adults safe driving behaviors in the classroom, online, and behind the wheel. Bruce earned a BA and MA from San Diego State University.
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Trucking school is a necessary and required part of getting a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and embarking on a professional trucking career. While the exact requirements of becoming a truck driver depend on the state you reside in, the process of getting a CDL is pretty straightforward—and we’re here to walk you through it. Read on to learn why training is a necessary part of becoming a trucker, how you can get your own CDL, and some important factors to keep in mind along the way.
Can you get your CDL without going to school?
No—federal law requires all prospective commercial drivers to complete a training course with a certified training group. While it’s possible to get your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) independently, it’s impossible to get your CDL without attending trucking school.
Steps
How to Get a CDL
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Receive your CLP by passing the required tests and submitting the proper paperwork. Like a regular learner’s permit, you’ll need to pass a factual test to get your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) at your local DMV. Unlike a regular learner’s permit, however, you’ll need to receive a physical from the DOT (Department of Transportation), get a DOT medical card, and get your driving history thoroughly inspected. Some states may require extra paperwork before they issue you your CLP.[2]- You don’t need to attend a special school to get your CLP.
Attend trucking school and complete the required amount of training. The specific requirements for CDL training ultimately depend on where you live—consult your state’s CDL manual to confirm how many hours of training you’ll need before you can take your CDL test (many states require 160 hours). Enroll with a certified training provider to get the process started.[3]- You can get your CLP before entering trucking school.
- Not sure what the status of your certification is? Check your progress on the DOT's website.
Pass the skills test to receive your CDL. The CDL skills test has 3 components: vehicle inspection, basic controls, and driving on the road. If you pass this exam, you might be able to get a copy of your CDL on the same day—ultimately, it depends on where you live. In some places, your license might be mailed to you after the fact.[4]- Confirm with your trainers to see what documentation you’ll need to bring with you to your skills test.
- Important note: You need to have your CLP for at least 2 weeks before you can take the skills test.
Complete training with a company before hauling loads independently. Even after receiving your CDL, you’ll need to travel with a trainer before getting clearance to travel on your own.[5] Look for companies that specialize in training entry-level drivers and getting them prepared for the road.- Some companies train and hire new drivers while they’re working to get their CDL. This type of employment can help cut out the middle-person in your professional trucking career.
CDL Manuals by State
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Expert Q&A
Tips
References
- ↑ https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/commercial-drivers-license/how-do-i-get-commercial-drivers-license
- ↑ https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/commercial-drivers-license/how-do-i-get-commercial-drivers-license
- ↑ https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/commercial-drivers-license/how-do-i-get-commercial-drivers-license
- ↑ https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/commercial-drivers-license/how-do-i-get-commercial-drivers-license
- ↑ https://www.bls.gov/ooh/transportation-and-material-moving/heavy-and-tractor-trailer-truck-drivers.htm#tab-4
- ↑ https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/commercial-drivers-license/how-do-i-get-commercial-drivers-license
- ↑ https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/commercial-drivers-license/how-do-i-get-commercial-drivers-license
- ↑ https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/commercial-drivers-license/drivers
- ↑ https://www.bls.gov/ooh/transportation-and-material-moving/heavy-and-tractor-trailer-truck-drivers.htm#tab-4
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