Getting your Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is one of the best career moves available to someone without a college degree. Trucking offers stable income, job security, and the freedom of the road. Here's exactly how the process works in 2025.
CDL Classes: A, B, and C
Before anything else, know which class you're going for:
Class A CDL — Required to operate any combination vehicle with a GVWR over 26,001 lbs where the trailer exceeds 10,000 lbs. This is the standard for tractor-trailer (semi) driving. Most professional truck driving jobs require a Class A.
Class B CDL — Required for single vehicles over 26,001 lbs (like straight trucks, dump trucks, city buses). You can tow a vehicle up to 10,000 lbs with a Class B.
Class C CDL — Required for vehicles transporting 16+ passengers or hazardous materials in quantities requiring placarding. School buses and shuttle vans often fall here.
For most people entering professional trucking, Class A is the goal.
Step 1: Get Your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)
Before you can take behind-the-wheel training, you need a CLP. To get it:
1. Visit your state's DMV (or equivalent agency)
2. Provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number
3. Pass a vision test
4. Pass the written knowledge tests — General Knowledge is required for all, plus endorsement-specific tests if applicable
5. Pay the CLP fee (varies by state, typically $25–$75)
You must hold your CLP for at least 14 days before taking the CDL skills test. Use this time to study and practice.
Step 2: Complete CDL Training
While not federally required to attend a school (you can study and test independently), most states and most trucking companies require completion of an approved CDL training program.
Options:
- CDL school / trucking school — Programs run 3–8 weeks, cost $3,000–$8,000 out of pocket, or as low as $0 through company-sponsored training with a driving commitment
- Company-sponsored training — Many large carriers (Schneider, Werner, Swift, etc.) pay for your CDL training in exchange for a 1-year driving commitment
- Community college — Some offer CDL programs at lower cost with financial aid available
The Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) rule, effective February 2022, requires new CDL applicants to complete theory and behind-the-wheel training from an FMCSA-registered provider.
Step 3: Pass the CDL Skills Test
The skills test has three parts:
1. Pre-trip inspection — You'll be asked to conduct a full vehicle inspection and explain what you're checking and why. Know the 7 inspection areas cold. Inspectors can ask about any component.
2. Basic vehicle controls — Performed in a closed course. You'll be tested on straight-line backing, offset backing (left and right), and parallel parking (conventional or sight-side). These require repetition to master.
3. Road test — An on-road drive with a CDL examiner covering city driving, expressway driving, turning, shifting, and general vehicle control. Typically 30–60 minutes.
Fail one portion and you can retest that portion after a waiting period (varies by state — typically 7 days).
Medical Card / DOT Physical
To hold a CDL, you must have a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate (DOT physical card) from a certified medical examiner. Physicals are valid for 1–2 years depending on your health status. Common disqualifiers include uncontrolled blood pressure, vision below threshold, and certain medical conditions — but many conditions are manageable with documentation.
CDL Costs
- CDL school (private): $3,000–$8,000
- Community college programs: $1,500–$4,000
- Company-sponsored: $0 upfront (with driving commitment)
- CLP fee: $25–$75
- Skills test fee: $50–$200 depending on state
Total out-of-pocket if paying yourself: typically $3,500–$9,000
Endorsements Worth Getting
Once you have your CDL, endorsements add to what you can legally haul:
- HazMat (H) — Requires a TSA background check and fingerprinting (~$86 federal fee). Opens up hazmat loads which often pay significantly more.
- Tanker (N) — For bulk liquid cargo. Combine with HazMat for an X endorsement — one of the highest-demand combos.
- Doubles/Triples (T) — Required for pulling multiple trailers. Useful in LTL operations.
- Passenger (P) — For buses and shuttles (Class B focus).
- School Bus (S) — In addition to Passenger endorsement.
After the CDL
Most new CDL holders go company driver first — earn experience, build a safety record, and figure out which freight type and lane structure works for them. After 1–2 years of experience, moving to lease-purchase or owner-operator becomes more viable.
Prep for your CDL written exam with our CDL Prep course — practice tests, study guides, and everything you need to pass on the first attempt. Start studying →