Independent publisher · Source: FMCSA (U.S. Department of Transportation)

Frank retired from the factory at 58. He still wanted to work, and he loves to drive. A friend told him about commercial driving. Frank wanted to know the steps first. 🚚

👉 SEE THE SIMPLE STEPSOne step at a time, on the next page

What you’ll find here

✔️ What a CDL is.

✔️ The first step.

✔️ When training is needed.

✔️ What the test is like.

🧾 What a CDL is

A CDL is a commercial driver’s license. You need it to drive many big vehicles for work.

Your state gives it. The FMCSA, the federal agency for trucks and buses, does not.

🚌 Different licenses

There are three classes. Two are Class A and Class B.

Some vehicles need an extra endorsement, like a school bus or a tank truck. Each one has its own test.

👀 The first step: a permit

First, you get a learner’s permit. You take knowledge tests.

The state looks at your driving record for the last 10 years. Most drivers also need a DOT medical card, after a DOT physical.

👉 SEE EACH STEPThe full list, on the next page

⚙️ How the permit works

With the permit, you can practice on the road. A qualified CDL holder must sit next to you.

You keep the permit for at least 14 days. Then you can take the skills test.

🎓 About training

Is it your first Class A or Class B license? Was your permit issued on or after February 7, 2022? Then you need training with a registered provider before the test.

A good tip: check the school in the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry before you sign.

🧪 The test

The skills test has three parts: vehicle inspection, basic controls and a road test.

Some states give you the license the same day. Others mail it.

👪 Doing it with help

A son, daughter or friend can help you read the manual. They can help you check a school online.

Take your time. There is no rush.

🩺 About the medical card

Most commercial driving needs a DOT medical card. You get it after a DOT physical.

Bring a list of your medicines and your glasses, if you use them. Ask the clinic what to bring when you book.

Avoid scams: only your state gives a CDL, after real tests. Be careful with ads that promise a license without a test or a job if you pay first.

On the next page, we go through the eight steps, one by one.

Quick questions

Is this a government website?

No. 50 Pleno is an independent guide.

Do you offer jobs or CDL training?

No. We explain how the license works, using the FMCSA page as the source.

Am I too old to start?

The FMCSA page lists no age limit for this. Read your state manual for its rules.

Do I need a medical exam?

Most commercial driving needs a DOT medical card, after a DOT physical.

Can a friend help me practice?

Yes, if the friend is a qualified CDL holder sitting next to you.

👉 READ THE FULL GUIDEStep by step

50 Pleno is an independent publisher, not affiliated with the FMCSA, the U.S. Department of Transportation, any state licensing office, any school or any trucking company or any government agency. We don’t offer jobs or training and we never ask for personal details. Independent guide. Not affiliated with any government agency.