How long does it take to get a CDL?

CDL training programs typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months. The exact duration depends on the type of CDL (Class A, B, or C) and the training school.

What is ELDT certification?

Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) is a federal requirement since February 2022. All new CDL applicants must complete training from an FMCSA-registered provider before taking the CDL skills test.

How much does CDL school cost in 2026?

CDL training costs typically range from $3,000 to $10,000 for private schools in 2026. Company-sponsored programs may offer free training in exchange for a work commitment. Financial aid, WIOA grants, and VA benefits can help cover costs.

Can I get paid while training for my CDL?

Yes, many trucking companies offer paid CDL training programs where you earn a salary while learning. These programs typically require a 1-2 year employment commitment after graduation.

What is the difference between Class A and Class B CDL?

A Class A CDL allows you to drive combination vehicles (tractor-trailers) over 26,001 lbs with a towed vehicle over 10,000 lbs. A Class B CDL covers single vehicles over 26,001 lbs like buses, dump trucks, and delivery trucks. Class A offers more job opportunities and typically higher pay.

How do I verify if a CDL school is legitimate?

Verify the school is registered with the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). All legitimate ELDT providers must be listed. Use our Scam Checker tool to verify schools against the federal registry and check for complaints.

How long does it take to get a CDL?

CDL training programs typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months.

What is ELDT certification?

Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) is a federal requirement since February 2022. All new CDL applicants must complete training from an FMCSA-registered provider.

How much does CDL school cost?

CDL training costs typically range from $3,000 to $10,000 for private schools. Company-sponsored programs may offer free training in exchange for a work commitment.

How to Get a CDL in 2025: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

🎧 Listen to this article

Loading audio...

0:000:00

Semi truck on highway - How to get your CDL in 2025

Getting your Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is one of the fastest ways to secure a middle-class income without a college degree. In 2025, the demand for drivers is stabilizing, but the pay for qualified drivers remains high.

However, the process has changed. If you haven't looked at the requirements since the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) mandate took effect, the "old way" of just borrowing a truck and taking a test at the DMV is dead. You now have to follow a strict, federally regulated path.

This guide walks you through the exact process for 2025, from your first physical exam to your first paycheck.

1What is a CDL and Who Needs One?

A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is a specialized license required to operate large, heavy, or hazardous vehicles in the United States.

You need a CDL if you plan to drive:

Any single vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more.
A combination vehicle (truck + trailer) with a combined weight of 26,001+ pounds, provided the trailer is over 10,000 pounds.
A vehicle designed to transport 16+ passengers (including the driver).
Any vehicle transporting hazardous materials (Hazmat) requiring placards.

If you drive a standard Amazon delivery van or a pickup truck, you do not need a CDL.

2Basic Requirements to Get a CDL

Before you spend a dime, make sure you meet the federal minimums.

🎂 Age

You must be at least 18 years old to drive intrastate (within your state lines). You must be 21 years old to drive interstate or transport Hazmat.

🪪 License

You must hold a valid, non-commercial driver's license (Class D) in your state of residence.

📋 Background

Certain felonies (especially drug trafficking) can disqualify you. DUIs and moving violations can affect your employability even if they don't disqualify you.

See second chance companies →

🏥 Medical

You must pass a DOT physical and have no disqualifying conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or severe sleep apnea.

3Step 1: Get Your DOT Medical Card

Before anything else, you need to prove you're medically fit to drive. The DOT Medical Exam is required for all CDL holders.

A DOT physical is a standardized medical exam conducted by an FMCSA-certified medical examiner. It checks:

Vision (must be 20/40 in each eye)
Hearing (must perceive a forced whisper at 5 feet)
Blood pressure (must be below 140/90 for a 2-year card)
Blood sugar (diabetes screening)
Physical condition (no missing limbs without a waiver, etc.)

Cost:

$75 - $150 depending on location

Duration:

30-45 minutes

Find a DOT Physical Clinic Near Me

4Step 2: Get Your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)

After passing your DOT physical, your next step is the written test at your local DMV.

The CLP is like the learner's permit you got when you were 16 — it allows you to practice driving a commercial vehicle with a licensed CDL holder in the passenger seat.

To get your CLP, you must pass 3 written knowledge tests:

1General Knowledge (covers basic trucking laws, cargo securement, pre-trip inspection)
2Combination Vehicles (if going for Class A)
3Air Brakes (almost all commercial trucks have air brakes)

Pro Tip:

Take our free practice tests to prepare. Practice Tests →

Cost:

$10 - $50 (varies by state)

Duration:

1-2 hours at the DMV

14-Day Hold:

After you receive your CLP, federal law requires you to hold it for 14 days before you can take the skills test. This is mandatory.

5Step 3: Complete ELDT Training

This is the big one. Under the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) mandate that took effect in February 2022, you cannot take the CDL skills test without completing training at an FMCSA-registered school.

ELDT training consists of two parts:

Theory (Classroom):

Covers regulations, safety, and basic vehicle operation. Often can be done online.

Behind-the-Wheel (BTW):

Actual driving time with an instructor. Must be completed on a range and public roads.

Warning:

Any "CDL school" not listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry is not legitimate. Your training won't count.

Cost:

$3,000 - $10,000+ (depending on program length and location)

Duration:

3-8 weeks (full-time) or longer for part-time

Verify a School is FMCSA-Registered

6Step 4: Pass the CDL Skills Test

After completing ELDT training, your school will upload your certification to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). You can then schedule your skills test.

The CDL Skills Test has 3 parts:

Pre-Trip Inspection

You must identify and explain over 100 parts of the truck to the examiner. This is where most people fail.

Basic Controls (Backing)

Straight-line backing, offset backing, and alley docking.

Road Test

Driving on public roads with an examiner. Includes turns, lane changes, and highway driving.

Passing Tip:

The Pre-Trip Inspection is the hardest part. Consider getting our Pre-Trip Cheat Sheet to memorize the sequence.

Cost:

$100 - $300 (often included in school tuition)

Get the Pre-Trip Cheat Sheet ($9.95)

7How Long Does It Take?

The total timeline depends on your schedule and program choice.

🚀 Fastest Path:

Full-time training, immediate testing

4-6 weeks

📅 Average Path:

Part-time training or waiting for test dates

2-3 months

🌙 Part-Time/Weekend:

For those working full-time jobs

4-6 months

Need to start faster? Read our guide on how to get your CDL in 2 weeks.

8How Much Does It Cost?

Total cost varies significantly based on how you train.

Private CDL School:

Fastest, most flexible, industry connections

$5,000 - $10,000

Community College:

Cheaper but longer programs, may have waitlists

$1,500 - $5,000

Company-Sponsored:

Work contract required (typically 1 year)

$0 (Free)

How to Pay for CDL School Financial Aid Guide

🛠️ Useful Tools for Planning:

🧮 CPM Calculator 💰 Cost Calculator 🎓 Compare Programs

9CDL Classes Explained (A, B, C)

Not sure which license to apply for?

Class A CDL (The "Big One")

Vehicles: Tractor-Trailers, Tankers, Flatbeds.

Requirement: GCWR 26,001+ lbs AND towing >10,000 lbs.

Best For: Maximum salary ($70k - $100k) and OTR/Regional driving.

Learn more about Class A

Class B CDL (The "Local One")

Vehicles: Dump Trucks, Box Trucks, Concrete Mixers, Buses.

Requirement: GVWR 26,001+ lbs, but towing <10,000 lbs.

Best For: Home daily jobs, construction, and city transit.

Class C CDL (The "Specialty One")

Vehicles: Small Hazmat vehicles, 16+ passenger shuttles.

Best For: Specific niche jobs like airport shuttles or small hazmat couriers.

10Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a CDL without going to school in 2025?

No. No. Under the ELDT mandate, you generally cannot take the CDL skills test unless you have completed training with a registered provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR).

Is the CDL test hard to pass?

The driving portion is manageable with practice, but the Pre-Trip Inspection is where most students fail. You must memorize over 100 parts of the truck and recite their condition to the examiner.

Get our CDL Test Prep Guide