How to Get a CDL in California: 5 Simple Steps 

If you’re in California and thinking about a career in trucking or commercial driving, one of your first questions is probably how to get a CDL in California. A CDL, or Commercial Driver’s License, is required to operate large or commercial vehicles, and in California, the process comes with unique state-specific rules, costs, and training requirements. While the steps may seem complicated at first, once you understand California’s requirements, getting your CDL is absolutely achievable.

What are the California CDL requirements?

What are the California CDL requirements?

To apply for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in California, applicants must meet both federal and state rules. The California DMV outlines the following requirements:

Age and driving eligibility

• At least 18 years old to drive commercial vehicles within California (intrastate).
• At least 21 years old to drive across state lines (interstate), transport hazardous materials, or carry wastes.
• May drive for hire within California if 18 or older and not engaged in interstate commerce.

Driver’s license requirement

• Must already hold a valid California non-commercial Class C driver’s license (temporary/interim license is acceptable). This is required to validate your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).

Documents and application

• A completed Commercial Driver License Application (DL 44C or eDL 44C) form.
• Proof of true full name and legal presence in the U.S. (acceptable identity documents).
• Residency proof: one document showing California residency that matches the address on your application.
• Social Security Number (SSN): A Social Security card is required for original CDL applications.

Medical and safety requirements

• A valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Form MCSA-5876) from a DOT-approved medical examiner.
• Applicants must consent to chemical testing for alcohol or drugs if requested by law enforcement.

Testing rules

• Must first obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) before the skills test.
• The CLP is valid for 180 days and may be renewed once.
• Applicants get 3 attempts at the knowledge tests and 3 attempts at the skills test (vehicle inspection, basic control, and road test). Retest fees may apply.

Additional CDL requirements

• Must be a California resident before applying for a CDL.
• Must disclose all states where previously licensed in the past 10 years and surrender any out-of-state licenses.
• Must certify the type of commercial commerce you will operate.
• Must notify the DMV and employers of convictions, suspensions, or disqualifications as required under federal rules.

For full legal details, see the California Commercial Driver Handbook.

How to get a CDL in California?

How to get a CDL in California?

Now, let’s walk step by step through the process of earning your CDL license in California.

Step 1: Decide which CDL class you need

California issues three classes of CDLs. Choose the correct one based on the vehicle you plan to operate:

Step 2: Get a commercial learner’s permit (CLP)

A CLP is a learner’s permit for commercial driving. It allows you to practice driving a commercial vehicle under the supervision of a licensed CDL holder before you earn your full Commercial Driver’s License. To get your CLP, you need to:

• Pass the CDL written knowledge tests at the California DMV. Using a California CDL practice test is the most effective way to stay sharp before the final exam. 
• Provide required documents:
  • Proof of identity and legal presence in the U.S.
  • Proof of California residency.
  • Social Security Number (SSN).
  • Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Form MCSA-5876).

California law requires you to hold your CLP permit for at least 14 days before scheduling the skills test. Notice that your CLP is valid for 180 days and can be renewed once without retaking knowledge tests, as long as the total duration doesn’t exceed 1 year.

Step 3: Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

As of February 7, 2022, the FMCSA requires all new drivers applying for a Class A or Class B CDL or a first-time HazMat, school bus, or passenger endorsement to complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an FMCSA-approved training provider. You can find approved ELDT providers in the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry.

The program includes theory instructions (classroom or online) and behind-the-wheel training on both range and public roads. It ensures that all new CDL drivers gain the knowledge and practical skills required for safe commercial driving. Completing this training not only meets federal law requirements but also improves your chances of passing the CDL skills test on the first attempt.

Step 4: Take the CDL skills test

Once you’ve met the CLP permit and ELDT training requirements, schedule your CDL skills test at the DMV. The test includes three parts:

1. Vehicle inspection test
2. Basic control skills test
3. Road test

If you fail any section, that part is counted as one attempt, and you must retake only the failed portion. You are allowed a total of 3 attempts to pass the entire skills test (all three parts combined).

Step 5: Get your CDL license

After successfully passing all three parts of the CDL skills test, you can proceed to pay the CDL issuance fee, which varies depending on your CDL class and any endorsements you have. Once the fee is paid, the California DMV will process your license and mail it directly to you, officially allowing you to drive commercial vehicles. 

FAQs

1. How much does it cost to get a CDL in California?

Getting a CDL in California, including an optional truck driving school, typically costs between $3,000 and $7,000. This covers application and issuance fees, medical exams, and endorsements like HazMat or passenger. Understanding how to get a CDL in California helps you budget properly for training and test-related expenses. For a full breakdown, see our guide on how much it costs to get a CDL in California so you can budget properly for training and test-related expenses.

2. How long does it take to get a CDL in California?

On average, it takes 6 to 8 weeks to earn your CDL in California. This includes the time to apply, hold a Commercial Learner’s Permit (minimum 14 days), complete ELDT training, and pass the skills test. If you enroll in a truck driving school, the timeline may be shorter or more structured. You can learn more in our detailed guide on how long it takes to get a CDL in California.

3. What disqualifies you from getting a CDL in California?

There are several serious offenses and conditions that can disqualify you from obtaining or maintaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in California, including:

• Alcohol or drug violations: BAC ≥0.04%, DUI, refusing tests, or using controlled substances. 
• Serious traffic violations: Reckless driving, excessive speeding, improper lane changes, following too closely, or causing a fatal accident. 
• Safety and regulatory violations: Ignoring out-of-service orders, railroad crossing rules, or CDL class/endorsement requirements.
• Personal license issues: Suspension, revocation, or cancellation of your personal license due to serious violations can also affect your CDL.
• HazMat restrictions: Background check failures, felony convictions, or security risks.
• Accumulated points: Too many points for traffic violations or accidents can lead to suspension.
• Hands-free/texting violations: Multiple violations may result in a 60-120-day disqualification.

Check the full details on what disqualifies you from getting a CDL in California.

4. What are the 3 tests for the CDL permit in California?

To obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) in California, which is the first step toward getting a full Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), you must pass three written knowledge tests:

• General Knowledge Test: Covers basic driving rules, safety, and regulations for all commercial vehicles.
• Air Brakes Test: Focuses on the parts, inspection, and safe use of air brake systems.
• Combination Vehicles Test: Specific to tractor-trailers, covering how to handle and inspect them.

Final Thoughts

Still wondering how to get a CDL in California? The process is manageable if you follow the key steps: meet eligibility requirements, obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), and pass the CDL skills test. Furthermore, knowing fees, timelines, and disqualifications helps you stay on track. In short, mastering how to obtain your CDL in California puts you on the fast track to obtaining your license and building a reliable, in-demand career driving commercial vehicles across the state.