You can’t get behind the wheel of a semi-truck or other big rig without obtaining one vital permit first: your commercial driver’s license or CDL. This license requires you to take a few important steps before you can obtain one, and the process can be a bit mystifying if you’re not sure what to plan for or what training you need.
Before you head to your local DMV, you’ll want to follow these steps in order to properly obtain your CDL. Palmer Trucks is proud to be your local Kenworth truck dealer, with 13 locations throughout the Midwest, so we’ve drawn up this brief guide to assist you through the process.
Go Over the Requirements
First, you should take the time to look through the CDL testing manual (obtainable from your local DMV or even online) to determine whether you’ll qualify for a license. Requirements may vary by state, but may include being of a certain minimum age or possessing certain physical capabilities.
Obtain Permit
Your next step is to get a permit before you get your CDL, just as you do for a regular driver’s license. You can get a Class A CDL permit by passing some written exams, which generally include General Knowledge, Air Brakes and Combination Vehicles. You’ll want to make sure that your driving record is clean before you do this, because it will be checked for the past ten years to see whether there have been any major infractions. You’ll also need to demonstrate that you are medically cleared to receive a permit.
Practice With a Trainer
Now that you’ve got your CDL permit, you can practice behind the wheel with a qualified CDL trainer next to you. Before you apply for your license, you’ll need to have had your permit for at least two weeks, which is sufficient time to get in practice. There is often a certain amount of driving time that you’re required to have under your belt, so check your state’s guidelines on this.
Because you need specialized skills to pass the test, it can be beneficial to sign yourself up for more structured CDL training courses that help you to get the in-class information you’ll need to pass your driving test. If you’re new to the trucking industry, a class (either online or at a specified location) may be just the ticket for helping you get your foot in the door.
Pass Endorsements
Your written CDL exam may also include some endorsements, depending on what state you’re in and what type of endorsements you wish to obtain. Certain types of endorsements, like that for handling hazardous materials, might necessitate a background check. You’ll want to browse the endorsements portion of your CDL manual to know what you have to do.
Pass Your Skills Test
Finally, you’ll need to do a three-part driving exam that involves performing a pre-trip inspection of your truck, demonstrating basic control-handling skills and actually driving at a state CDL testing site or approved third-party site. You have to take the test in the vehicle for which you want the license. Check to see what happens if you don’t pass the first time, as there may be a waiting period before you can take the test again.
Once you’ve passed these tests, you should be able to receive your state’s CDL. You may receive it on the day of testing or it may be mailed to you. Do not drive a truck until you have your license in hand!
Still in search of a truck? Come by one of our many dealership locations in the Midwest to check out our full stock of new and used trucks for sale, including Kenworth trucks. We can assist you with leasing options as well as fleet management. Palmer Trucks proudly serves the states of Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio and Illinois.
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