If you live in Louisiana or Missouri, check this round up of state guidelines and see what you’ll need to do to be certified to drive safely behind the wheel of a commercial job. For information on all other states, TheJobNetwork has published a guide on how to apply for a CDL in every state of the country.
Louisiana
The following vehicles require you to have a CDL:
- If you will drive a combination vehicle (truck and trailer) whose trailer has a GVWR of 10,001+ lbs. total weight with the truck of 26,001+ lbs, you will need a Class A CDL.
- If you will drive a vehicle with GVWR is 26,001+ lbs., you will need a Class B CDL. With this license, you can also tow a trailer with weight that does not exceed 10,000 lbs.
- If you will transport hazardous materials or 16+ passengers (including the driver) in a vehicle with GVWR 26,000 lbs. or less, you will need a Class C CDL.
To obtain a CDL, you must:
- Possess and provide a valid picture driver’s license
- Provide a Supplemental Application Form (DPSMV 2211)
- Undergo a current, complete Physical Examination (DPSMV 2219)
- Possess and provide proof of liability insurance on personally owned vehicle(s)
- Possess and provide proof of Social Security number
- Provide a $15 application fee
Knowledge Test
The desired class of license and endorsements you seek will determine what CDL knowledge tests are required. You must obtain an 80% passing score on each required test. You must provide a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT Card) or a valid Intrastate State/Interstate Waiver.
- The General Knowledge Test is required by all applicants, and you must pass it to take additional knowledge tests.
- The Air Brake Knowledge Test is required if your vehicle is equipped with air brakes.
- The Combination Vehicles Knowledge Test is required if you want to drive combination vehicles.
- The Tanker Knowledge Test is required if you want to haul liquids in bulk.
- The Double/Triples Knowledge Test is required to pull double or triple trailers.
- The Passenger Knowledge Test is required by all bus drivers and school bus operators. In addition, school bus operatiors must pass the School Bus Knowledge Test.
- The Hazardous Materials Knowledge Test is required if you wish to haul hazardous materials.
Upon passing required test(s), applicants will be issued a 60 day learner’s permit.
Skills Test
This test consists of a pre-trip inspection to include an air brake test if vehicle is equipped with air brakes, a basic maneuvers test, and a public road test. You must pass each level before moving on to the next.
Missouri
The following vehicles require you to have a CDL:
- If you will drive a combination vehicle (truck and trailer) whose trailer has a GVWR of 10,001+ lbs. total weight with the truck of 26,001+ lbs, you will need a Class A CDL.
- If you will drive a vehicle with GVWR is 26,001+ lbs., you will need a Class B CDL. With this license, you can also tow a trailer with weight that does not exceed 10,000 lbs.
- If you will transport hazardous materials or 16+ passengers (including the driver) in a vehicle with GVWR 26,000 lbs. or less, you will need a Class C CDL.
Knowledge Test
The desired class of license and endorsements you seek will determine what CDL knowledge tests are required. You must obtain an 80% passing score on each required test. You must provide a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT Card) or a valid Intrastate State/Interstate Waiver.
- The General Knowledge Test is required by all applicants, and you must pass it to take additional knowledge tests.
- The Air Brake Knowledge Test is required if your vehicle is equipped with air brakes.
- The Combination Vehicles Knowledge Test is required if you want to drive combination vehicles.
- The Tanker Knowledge Test is required if you want to haul liquids in bulk.
- The Double/Triples Knowledge Test is required to pull double or triple trailers.
- The Passenger Knowledge Test is required by all bus drivers and school bus operators. In addition, school bus operatiors must pass the School Bus Knowledge Test.
- The Hazardous Materials Knowledge Test is required if you wish to haul hazardous materials.
Upon passing required test(s), applicants will be issued a 60 day learner’s permit.
Skills Test
This test consists of a pre-trip inspection to include an air brake test if vehicle is equipped with air brakes, a basic maneuvers test, and a public road test. You must pass each level before moving on to the next.