New Driver Roadmap — Step 1 of 5

    How to Get Your CDL License

    Your complete roadmap to earning a Commercial Driver's License — from studying for your permit to passing your skills test and hitting the road.

    4-10 Weeks

    Average Timeline

    $3K-$10K

    Training Cost

    21+

    Minimum Age (Interstate)

    $50K+

    First Year Earnings

    A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is your ticket to a career that offers independence, solid pay, and job security. Whether you want to drive for a company, lease equipment and work with brokers, or eventually run your own trucking business, everything starts with getting your CDL.

    This guide walks you through every step of the process — from understanding CDL classes to completing Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) and passing your skills test. By the end, you'll have a clear roadmap to get behind the wheel.

    CDL Classes Explained

    There are three CDL classes, each allowing you to operate different types of commercial vehicles. Most over-the-road truckers get a Class A CDL for the best job opportunities.

    Class A CDLMost Common

    Combination vehicles (tractor-trailers)

    Weight: Over 26,001 lbs with towed unit over 10,000 lbs
    Examples: 18-wheelers, tankers, flatbeds, livestock carriers
    Earnings: $50,000 - $80,000+ first year

    Class B CDL

    Single vehicles or towing under 10,000 lbs

    Weight: Over 26,001 lbs single vehicle
    Examples: Buses, dump trucks, delivery trucks, concrete mixers
    Earnings: $35,000 - $55,000 first year

    Class C CDL

    Vehicles under 26,001 lbs with special cargo

    Weight: Under 26,001 lbs
    Examples: Hazmat vehicles, passenger vans (16+ passengers)
    Earnings: $30,000 - $45,000 first year

    ELDT Requirements (Since 2022)

    As of February 7, 2022, the FMCSA requires all new CDL applicants to complete Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a registered training provider before taking their skills test.

    Theory Training

    • • Federal regulations and compliance
    • • Safe operating procedures
    • • Vehicle systems and inspections
    • • Hours of Service rules

    Behind-the-Wheel Training

    • • Range driving (backing, turning)
    • • Public road driving
    • • Pre-trip inspection practice
    • • Coupling and uncoupling (Class A)

    Find registered training providers at FMCSA Training Provider Registry.

    DOT Physical Requirements

    You must pass a DOT physical exam from a certified medical examiner before getting your CDL. The exam verifies you're physically capable of safely operating a commercial vehicle.

    What's Checked

    • Vision (20/40 in each eye, with correction)

    • Hearing (forced whisper at 5 feet)

    • Blood pressure (≤140/90)

    • Urinalysis (diabetes, drugs)

    • Physical examination (heart, lungs, spine)

    What to Bring

    • Driver's license

    • List of current medications

    • Glasses or contacts (if needed)

    • Hearing aids (if used)

    • Medical records for any conditions

    Find certified medical examiners at FMCSA National Registry. Exams cost $50-$150.

    CDL Training Options

    Private CDL Schools
    3-8 weeks$3,000 - $10,000

    Pros:

    • Faster completion
    • Flexible schedules
    • Job placement assistance

    Cons:

    • Higher upfront cost
    • Quality varies by school

    Community College Programs
    8-16 weeks$1,500 - $5,000

    Pros:

    • Lower cost
    • Financial aid available
    • Comprehensive curriculum

    Cons:

    • Longer program
    • Less flexible scheduling

    Company-Sponsored Training
    4-8 weeksFree (with commitment)

    Pros:

    • No upfront cost
    • Guaranteed job
    • Paid training period

    Cons:

    • 1-2 year commitment required
    • Limited carrier choice

    Typical CDL Timeline

    1

    Week 1

    Study for CLP, pass knowledge test, get DOT physical

    2

    Weeks 2-5

    Complete ELDT classroom and behind-the-wheel training

    3

    Week 6

    Practice for skills test, pre-trip inspection

    4

    Week 7

    Take CDL skills test (pre-trip, basic controls, road test)

    5

    Week 8

    Receive CDL, start job search or begin company orientation

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What's Next?

    Once you have your CDL, it's time to find loads and start earning. The next guide in our New Driver Roadmap covers load boards — the platforms where owner-operators and carriers find freight.

    Next: Understanding Load BoardsView All Guides

    Continue Reading

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    Helpful Tools

    Trucking Cost Per Mile Calculator

    Free trucking CPM calculator for owner-operators. Calculate your operating cost per mile including fuel, maintenance, and insurance.

    Trucking Profit Calculator

    Free owner-operator profit calculator. Estimate your profit margin on each load after all expenses including deadhead miles.