This article applies to anyone who wants to apply for a CDL in Massachusetts. If you want to learn about getting a CDL in other states, TheJobNetwork has put together a very comprehensive CDL guide on every state of the country.
Massachusetts
Eligibility
If you are at least 21 years old and have not had your driver’s license or right to operate revoked, you may apply for an interstate transport CDL permit. If you are at least 18 years old and have not had your driver’s license or right to operate revoked, you may apply for an intrastate (Massachusetts only) transport CDL permit.
Requirements
Federal law requires all commercial drivers have a social security number that verifies with the Social Security Administration.
Drivers of commercial vehicles over 10,000 lbs. must carry a valid US Department of Transportation (D.O.T.) approved medical certificate. Also, drivers transporting 15 or more passengers or carrying placarded hazardous materials, regardless of vehicle size, are required to carry a D.O.T. medical certificate.
Written Test
Obtain a CDL, you must first fill out an application (available at any RMV full-service office or on the RMV website). Then, present the application, the required identification, and the $30.00 written test fee, and the fee for any endorsements, in person, to any RMV full service office to take the written test. If you pass the written test, you will receive a 2-year permit.
Road Test
Finally, a road test is usually required when applying for a CDL. When you are ready to take a road test, you must call the RMV Telephone Center to schedule your road test. All road tests must be scheduled by the Telephone Center. You may NOT make a road test appointment in person.
For the road test, you you must supply a properly equipped, legally registered and insured vehicle with a valid inspection sticker. It must be of the proper type and manufacturer’s GVW rating for the class license you are applying for, and it must pass a safety check by the examiner.
The skills that will be tested during a CDL road test are pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control, and an on-road test
