How it works
Obtaining a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in the U.S. is a regulated process overseen by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), although the licenses themselves are issued by individual states.
The first step in this process is ensuring eligibility, which generally includes being at least 21 years old, possessing a valid non-commercial driver's license, and passing a Department of Transportation (DOT) mandated physical examination.
The next step is obtaining a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) by passing a series of written tests on commercial driving rules. Once the CLP is obtained, individuals typically enroll in a professional CDL training program for hands-on driving experience.
After at least 14 days of holding the CLP, individuals are eligible to take the CDL skills test, which comprises a vehicle inspection test, a basic controls test, and a road test. Upon successful completion of the skills test, the CDL is issued, specifying the class of vehicle the holder is authorized to drive (A, B, or C) along with any earned endorsements.
To maintain the CDL, drivers must uphold their physical fitness with regular examinations and adhere to strict regulations regarding traffic violations and substance use. However, the exact rules and requirements may vary slightly from state to state.
Self-study vs CDL school vs carrier sponsored training
Self-study
Studying for your CDL on your own can be less expensive than enrolling in a training school, as you'll mainly need to cover the cost of materials and the testing fee. This option also offers flexibility, as you can study at your own pace and in your own time.
The biggest challenge is the lack of hands-on experience. Operating a commercial vehicle is much different from driving a regular car, and it's difficult to get that experience without access to a commercial vehicle. Self-studying also requires a significant amount of self-discipline and motivation. You'll need to be able to understand and interpret complex regulations and procedures on your own.
CDL training school
Going to a CDL training school provides structured learning and hands-on experience. These schools often have commercial vehicles available for practice and for use during your test. They also have experienced instructors who can provide insights, clarify doubts, and offer practical tips that you may not get from a book. The structured curriculum can make it easier to learn and understand the material.
The most significant downside to CDL training schools is the cost. These programs can cost between $3,000 to $7,000, which may be prohibitive for some. The programs also require a time commitment, which may be challenging for individuals who are working or have other obligations.
Carrier-sponsored CDL training
Some carriers offer sponsored CDL training, where they cover the cost of your CDL training in return for a commitment to work for them for a specified period. This can be an attractive option as it provides structured, hands-on training while solving any financial challenges. Moreover, you have a guaranteed job waiting for you once you pass your CDL test.
The major drawback is that you're obligated to work for the sponsoring carrier for the agreed period, which could range from a few months to a year or more. If the job isn’t a good fit or if you receive a better offer elsewhere, you're still tied to the agreement. The pay during the initial period may also be less compared to other jobs, as the carrier recoups the training costs.
Each of these paths has its own advantages and challenges. The best path for you depends on your individual circumstances, including your financial situation, learning style, and career plans.
CDL types
Class A
Class A license is the most comprehensive commercial driver's license and is considered the "universal" CDL, providing the opportunities for driving a variety of commercial trucks and tractor-trailers. Vehicles that can be driven with a Class A CDL (subject to endorsements) include but are not limited to tractor-trailers, truck and trailer combinations, flatbeds, livestock carriers, and tank vehicles. The driver can operate any combination of vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the GVWR of the vehicle(s) being towed is over 10,000 pounds.
Class B
Class B CDL holders can operate single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or any such vehicle towing another not in excess of 10,000 pounds. The key difference from Class A is that these drivers are not permitted to tow loads weighing over 10,000 pounds. Examples of vehicles you can drive with a Class B CDL (subject to endorsements) include straight trucks, large buses (city buses, tourist buses), segmented buses, box trucks (like delivery drivers and furniture movers), and dump trucks with small trailers.
Class C
Class C CDL is designed for vehicles not covered by Class A or B, but which are designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver), or used in the transportation of hazardous materials. This includes vehicles such as small HazMat vehicles, passenger vans, and combination vehicles not covered by Classes A or B. Essentially, a Class C CDL is intended for drivers who don't meet the criteria for a Class A or B license but still drive commercial vehicles that carry a large number of passengers or transport hazardous materials.
Remember that each of these classes can have further specializations, known as endorsements, such as passenger and school bus endorsements, tanker truck endorsements, and hazardous materials (hazmat) endorsements. Each endorsement requires the driver to pass additional knowledge and skills tests.
