YOUR CDL
MUST BE OBTAINED AND MAINTAINED
Choose your STATE OF RESIDENCE
for Class A CDL Info . . .
Select YOUR State>>>
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There are THREE types (classifications) of CDL (Commercial Drivers License)
If you possess a Class A CDL, you may also drive Class B and Class C vehicles if you have the appropriate endorsements.
See detailed differences between the
CDL Classification Codes .
Class A CDL (Commercial Drivers License) Requirements
Any combination of vehicles which has a gross combination weight rating or gross
combination weight of 11,794 kilograms or more (26,001 pounds or more) whichever
is greater, inclusive of a towed unit(s) with a gross vehicle weight rating
or gross vehicle weight of more than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds) whichever
is greater.
Includes "tractor-trailer" type vehicles such as an "eighteen
wheeler".
Some states (check locally) require a Class A CDL when pulling ANY
trailer exceeding 10,000 lbs GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) even
when the COMBINED gross vehicle weight rating (CGVWR) does not exceed
26,000 pounds . . . example: a one-ton "dually" pulling a
trailer exceeding 10,000 pounds but truck GVWR plus the trailer GVWR
not exceeding 26,000 pounds. (Most states have an exception for private
recreational travel trailers; check locally).
How to get a Class A CDL (Commercial Drivers License)
Provide documentation and pay fees
Provide Medical Certificate
Pass applicable written test(s) to obtain a CDL Class A permit (General
Knowledge, Air Brakes and Combination Vehicles)
Pass skills tests in a "representative" type vehicle
For more detailed information, go to
how to get your CDL .
Class A Exam Requirements
To operate trucks or truck combinations weighing 26,001 lbs or more, and towing a vehicle/unit over 10,000 lbs, then a Class A license is needed. The following tests are required:
General Knowledge test
Combinations vehicle test
Air Brakes
Pre-Trip
Basic Skills
CDL Road Test
Applicable exams for desired endorsements
You can normally take the required CDL written tests and obtain your your CDL permit without having to make an appointment.
You will have to make an appointment to take the CDL Skills tests.
If you need help . . .
Go to CDL Selector Tool
Not sure which CDL Tests you need to pass? Use this tool to determine what Class of CDL and which CDL Endorsements you require.
Are YOU ready to get YOUR CDL?
In addition to the CDL (commercial driver's license) information found in our website covering the CDL and in the free CDL Handbook (which is quite boring and a bit confusing - and doesn't have a single multiple-choice question in it that is asked on the actual tests), the complete online
CDL Practice Test prep program will prepare you to easily pass your
CDL written exams to get your CDL permit. The skills test modules are invaluable to give you a head start before doing your
behind the wheel work, possibly saving you a lot of money. The CDL test prep program includes the following features . . .
Covers ALL Eight CDL written tests. In separate study modules - you won't need all of them - don't waste time on what you don't require.
Covers ALL Three CDL skills tests. In separate study modules - you won't need all of them - don't waste time on what you don't require.
670 practice CDL test questions with actual answers.
Access to CDL videos covering written and skills tests.
CDL study guide in both text and audio - listen as you read along .
CDL study Quick Reviews.
Interactive online CDL Quizzes.
and much more!
May your new CAREER be prosperous!!!
Michael Hamilton
Director
