The trucking profession is a lifeline for the national economy. Entering this field involves a structured process of education, training, and licensing that aspiring drivers must complete to operate a commercial motor vehicle. This pathway ensures all drivers have a standard level of knowledge and skill.
Basic Prerequisites for Truck Drivers
Before an individual can begin formal training, they must meet several foundational requirements. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) mandates that drivers be at least 21 years old to transport cargo across state lines (interstate). Some states allow individuals as young as 18 to drive commercially within state borders (intrastate), though job opportunities may be more limited. A high school diploma or GED is generally expected by employers.
A valid, non-commercial driver’s license and a clean driving record are also necessary. Prospective drivers must pass a DOT physical exam to receive a medical card, which certifies they meet the health standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This physical assesses factors like vision, hearing, and blood pressure.
Obtaining a Commercial Learner’s Permit
The first official step toward becoming a licensed truck driver is obtaining a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). A CLP authorizes a student to practice driving a commercial vehicle on public roads, but only when accompanied by a qualified Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) holder. This permit is the gateway to gaining the necessary behind-the-wheel experience.
To acquire a CLP, an applicant must visit their state’s licensing agency and pass written knowledge tests covering general knowledge, combination vehicles, and air brakes. Each state provides a CDL manual that serves as the study guide for these tests.
Completing Entry-Level Driver Training
As of February 7, 2022, federal regulations mandate that all new applicants for a Class A or Class B CDL must complete an Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) program. This rule establishes a uniform national standard for driver education. The ELDT regulations are not retroactive, so individuals who held a CDL before this date are not required to complete this training.
The ELDT curriculum is composed of two parts: theory instruction and behind-the-wheel (BTW) training. The theory portion covers topics from vehicle operation to hours-of-service regulations. The BTW portion involves hands-on practice on a driving range and public roads, supervised by an instructor. There is no minimum number of hours for BTW training; the student must demonstrate proficiency in all required skills.
This training must be conducted by a provider listed on the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry. This registry ensures that schools meet federal curriculum standards. Completion of an ELDT program is electronically recorded, which state licensing agencies verify before administering the final test.
Passing the CDL Skills Test
The final step in earning a commercial license is passing the multi-part CDL skills test. This exam assesses a driver’s practical ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle. The test is administered after ELDT is complete and must be passed within the lifespan of the CLP. It is broken down into three distinct segments, which must be passed in order.
The first segment is the pre-trip vehicle inspection, where the applicant must check a vehicle for safety, pointing out components and explaining what they are inspecting. The second segment is the basic vehicle control skills test, which involves backing maneuvers like straight-line backing and alley docking. The final segment is the on-road driving test, where the applicant operates the vehicle in real-world traffic to demonstrate control and adherence to traffic laws.
Upon passing the skills test, a driver is issued a CDL. These licenses are categorized into classes based on the vehicle’s weight. A Class A CDL is for combination vehicles with a gross weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, including a towed unit over 10,000 pounds. A Class B CDL is for single vehicles over 26,001 pounds or a combination towing less than 10,000 pounds. A Class C CDL is for vehicles that do not meet Class A or B criteria but are designed to transport 16 or more passengers or hazardous materials.
Specialized Endorsements
After obtaining a CDL, drivers can pursue endorsements to qualify for specialized hauling jobs. An endorsement is an additional certification that permits operating specific vehicles or transporting certain cargo, often leading to more job opportunities and higher earning potential. Most endorsements require passing an additional written knowledge test, while some also require a skills test. Common endorsements include:
- “N” for tank vehicles used to haul bulk liquids.
- “T” for operating double or triple trailers.
- “H” for transporting hazardous materials (Hazmat).
- “P” for passenger vehicles (requires a skills test).
- “S” for school buses (requires a skills test).