Choose Class A, B or C and needed endorsements

CDL Permit Requirements by State
A Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)—often called a CDL permit—lets you practice operating a commercial vehicle with a properly qualified CDL holder. Select your state for the licensing agency, application roadmap, test preparation and official resources.
The CDL permit process
Review your state CDL manual and medical rules
Gather identity, residency and lawful-presence documents
Apply with your state licensing agency
Pass the required knowledge tests
Receive the CLP and complete applicable ELDT
Practice with a qualified CDL holder
After at least 14 days, take the CDL skills test
Find your state CDL permit guide
Which CDL class do you need?
Class A
Combination vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more when the towed vehicle has a GVWR over 10,000 pounds.
Class B
A single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or one towing a vehicle not over 10,000 pounds GVWR.
Class C
A vehicle outside Class A or B that carries 16 or more occupants including the driver, or placardable hazardous materials.
Non-commercial Class C or Class D classifications and weight limits vary by state. Use your state guide and official driver manual for the controlling definition.
CDL endorsements and common restrictions
| Code | Endorsement | Knowledge test | Skills test | ELDT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| H | Hazardous Materials | Yes | No | Theory |
| N | Tank Vehicle | Yes | No | No |
| P | Passenger | Yes | Yes | Theory + BTW |
| S | School Bus | Yes | Yes | Theory + BTW |
| T | Doubles/Triples | Yes | No | No |
| X | Tank and HazMat | Yes | No | HazMat theory |
Common restrictions: E—no manual-transmission CMV; L—no air-brake CMV; Z—no full-air-brake CMV; O—no tractor-trailer; K—intrastate only; M/N—passenger-vehicle class limits; V—medical variance. Your licensing agency’s record controls.
Your State CDL practice tests
General Knowledge Practice Test
Core commercial-driving rules, safety and operations.
Take Free Practice Test →Air Brakes Practice Test
Air-brake components, inspections and safe operation.
Take Free Practice Test →Combination Vehicles Practice Test
Coupling, combination handling and inspections.
Take Free Practice Test →Hazardous Materials Practice Test
HazMat safety concepts and federal requirements.
Take Free Practice Test →Tank Vehicles Practice Test
Liquid surge, inspection and tanker operation.
Take Free Practice Test →Passenger Vehicles Practice Test
Safe passenger transport and vehicle procedures.
Take Free Practice Test →School Bus Practice Test
School-bus safety, loading and emergency procedures.
Take Free Practice Test →Doubles and Triples Practice Test
Multiple-trailer coupling and safe handling.
Take Free Practice Test →These practice tests are educational study tools and are not official state CDL examinations. Questions on the official test may differ, and completing a practice test does not guarantee a passing score.
This guide is provided for general educational purposes and is not legal advice or an official government publication. CDL and CLP requirements may change. Confirm current requirements with your state licensing agency before applying.