A CDL is a commercial driver’s license and, like the driver’s license you might already have to operate a passenger vehicle, there are a number of rules, requirements, and regulations to follow in order to obtain and maintain one. Why is a CDL so important? As the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration explains, driving a commercial motor vehicle requires a higher level of knowledge, experience, skills and physical abilities than operating a passenger vehicle.
Applicants must pass specific tests that assess skills and knowledge, and CDL holders are held to a higher standard. Traffic violations, for example, may impact your ability to obtain and maintain certification. Drivers can obtain a CDL in their home state but it’s important to note that having multiple CDLs from different states is illegal.
Also, depending on the location and whether your drivers will be engaging in intrastate or interstate transportation, a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate may be required with the CDL application.
There are three types of CDLs, as defined below by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA):
Note: A CDL is not required to operate a truck that weighs under 26,000 lbs. with air brakes
A commercial learners permit (CLP) is also available, which allows drivers on the road with a certified CDL holder.
If you have questions about the specific regulations, especially what constitutes a hazardous material or toxin, please contact the FMCSA or your fleeting leasing partner.
CDL tests are typically the same across the country but may differ slightly by state. The goal is to measure knowledge and skills so that your drivers can safely and effectively operate a commercial vehicle.
For example, the following tests are required for the corresponding CDLs in New Hampshire; the information is courtesy of the New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles. It’s best to contact your specific state’s division of motor vehicles for the most up-to-date information.
Beginning February 22, 2022, Entry-Level Driver Training will be a federal requirement for a CDL application.
Endorsements are specifications that can be added to your CDL permit or license that allow you to operate certain commercial vehicles (or in certain environments and conditions). The following list was compiled from the FMCSA and the New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles. There are no limits to the number of CDL endorsements.
You can also have restrictions on a CDL, which the FMCSA explains can happen if a commercial vehicle lacks certain equipment. That’s why it’s important for drivers to take the skills test in the same vehicle (or type of vehicle) that is associated with their CDL application.
Common restrictions, as compiled from the FMCSA and New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles, include*:
There may also be certain medical restrictions or those that limit the type of equipment you can operate.
*Restriction letter labels vary from state to state.
A commercial driver’s license is required for the operation of any singular vehicles 26,001 pounds and over (including the combination of a truck/trailer, anything being towed, etc.). This may include many trucks, passenger vans, delivery vans, church vans, school buses, shuttles, etc.
If you would like more information, please contact Merchants Fleet. As your trusted fleet management partner, we understand the nuances and intricacies of obtaining a CDL and can help answer your specific questions so that your drivers will be fully prepared. Contact us today to speak with one of our fleet experts!
A CDL is required to operate certain types of commercial vehicles, including passenger vans, delivery vans, trucks and school buses.
A commercial driver’s license is required for the operation of any singular vehicles 26,001 pounds and over (including the combination of a truck/trailer, anything being towed, etc.).
No. This a common misconception; a CDL is not required to operate a truck with air brakes as long as the GVWR is 26,000 lbs. or less.
As the FMCSA explains, Military Driver Programs “make it easier, quicker, and less expensive for experienced military drivers to obtain a commercial driver’s license.”
It’s best for your drivers to start as early as possible since the CDL process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
About the AuthorJoe serves as Fleet Operations Manager - Truck & Upfit Engineering at Merchants Fleet. He joined the company in March 2017. Joe manages the upfit process and vendors for Merchants clients, providing value by ensuring they have optimized designs to fit the needs of their fleet.