How to get a CDL in Indiana? A Detailed Guide

Have you ever wondered how to get a CDL in Indiana? Each state has its own requirements and process for obtaining a CDL, so understanding the specific rules and steps in each state can save you time and effort in preparation. This article from Easy Prep provides a complete guide to getting a CDL in Indiana, along with the necessary prerequisites for obtaining this certification. Let’s dive in!

Indiana CDL requirements

Indiana CDL requirements

Below are the mandatory requirements you must meet to obtain a CDL in Indiana:

• You must be at least 18 years old. However, if you plan to transport passengers or operate across state lines, you must be at least 21.
• You must hold a valid Indiana driver’s license for at least one year.
• You must provide proof of legal status in the United States as well as residency in Indiana. Acceptable documents include a passport, birth certificate, Certificate of Naturalization, bank statements, utility bills, and similar records.
• The state of Indiana requires all CDL applicants to submit a request to the Indiana State Police, allowing them to review any past vehicle accidents. This helps ensure that you maintain a clean driving record.
• You must pass a medical examination conducted by an FMCSA-approved physician and obtain a Medical Examiner’s Certificate, confirming that you are physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV).

How to get a CDL in Indiana?

Step 1: Choose your CDL class

Choose your CDL class

The first step in the process is deciding which type of CDL you need. In Indiana, CDLs are divided into different classes based on the type of vehicle you plan to operate and its weight. Choosing the correct class is crucial, as it determines the vehicles you are legally allowed to drive.

• Class A CDL: Required if you want to operate combination vehicles (such as tractor-trailers) with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the towed vehicle weighs over 10,000 pounds.
• Class B CDL: Needed for operating single vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, or any such vehicle towing another vehicle that does not exceed 10,000 pounds. Examples include straight trucks, large buses, and dump trucks.
• Class C CDL: Necessary for vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or for carrying hazardous materials (HazMat) requiring placarding under federal regulations.

Step 2: Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

Before applying for your full Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), you must first obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). This permit allows you to practice driving a commercial vehicle under the supervision of a fully licensed CDL holder.

To get your CLP in Indiana, follow these steps:

1. Provide Required Documents: Bring proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency, along with documentation verifying your Indiana residency.
2. Submit Medical Records: Provide a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate and any other required medical documentation.
3. Pass a Vision Test: You must demonstrate at least 20/40 vision in each eye.
4. Disclose Prior Licenses: Inform the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) of all states where you’ve held a driver’s license in the past 10 years.
5. Pay the CLP Fee: The CLP fee is $17.
6. Pass the Written Knowledge Exams: To qualify for your Class A CLP, you must successfully complete the following written tests:

• • General Knowledge Test: Covers safe driving practices, road rules, and federal regulations.
  • Air Brakes Test: Required if you’ll operate vehicles equipped with air brakes.
  • Combination Vehicles Test: Focuses on handling tractor-trailers and other combination vehicles.
  • Plus, any endorsement tests (such as for tankers, doubles/triples, or passengers) that apply to your intended vehicle type.

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), CLP holders may only drive on public roads under the direct supervision of a CDL-licensed driver. A CLP in Indiana is valid for 180 days and can be renewed up to three times within a two-year period. You must hold your CLP for at least 14 days before becoming eligible to take the CDL skills test.

Step 4: Add CDL endorsements (if needed)

Add CDL endorsements (if needed)

If you want to expand your driving privileges, you can add endorsements to your Indiana CDL. To do this, you’ll need to pass additional written endorsement tests specific to the type of driving you plan to do.

It’s important to carefully research the endorsements you need, as each comes with its own requirements. For example, the Hazardous Materials (HazMat) endorsement not only requires passing a written knowledge test but also a federal background check before it can be added to your CDL.

Step 5: Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

Before taking the CDL skills test, you must complete the ELDT program from an FMCSA-approved provider. This training encompasses both theoretical instruction (covering rules, safety, and driver responsibilities) and behind-the-wheel practice on closed courses and public roads.

The program length and cost vary by provider, usually lasting a few weeks to a few months, with fees ranging from $1,500-$5,000. Once completed, your results are submitted to the FMCSA, making you eligible to schedule the CDL skills test with the Indiana BMV.

Step 6: Take the Indiana CDL skills test

Take the Indiana CDL skills test

In Indiana, applicants must pass the CDL skills test, which is divided into three parts:

• Pre-Trip Inspection: Demonstrating your ability to inspect the vehicle and identify whether it is safe to operate.
• Basic Control Skills Test: Proving you can maneuver the vehicle in a controlled environment, including backing, turning, and parking.
• Road Test: Driving on public roads to show you can safely operate a commercial vehicle in real traffic conditions.

The skills test must be completed at either an Indiana state CDL test site or an FMCSA-approved third-party testing location. Once you successfully pass all three parts, you will be issued your official Indiana CDL.

Step 7: Receive your CDL

Receive your CDL

After passing the CDL skills test, the examiner will submit your results to the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). You can then return to a BMV branch to finalise the process and receive your Commercial Driver’s License.

Typically, you’ll be issued a temporary paper license the same day, while your official CDL card is mailed to you within 7-14 business days. The exact processing time may vary depending on the branch and mailing schedule. Once received, your CDL will be valid for up to four years in Indiana, after which it must be renewed.

FAQs

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

The total cost usually ranges from $3,500 to $5,000, depending on training fees, testing fees, DOT physical exam fees, medical exams, and endorsements.

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

On average, it takes 4 to 8 weeks to complete training, obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), and pass the CDL skills test.

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

You may be disqualified for offenses such as multiple DUI convictions, driving a commercial vehicle under the influence, leaving the scene of an accident, committing a felony with a vehicle, or serious traffic violations like excessive speeding or reckless driving.

4. Can you get a CDL with a DUI on your record in Indiana?

Yes, but with limitations. A single DUI conviction may result in a temporary disqualification (usually 1 year, or 3 years if transporting hazardous materials). Multiple DUI convictions typically lead to a lifetime disqualification from holding a CDL.

Conclusion

How to get a CDL in Indiana? By now, you should have a clear understanding of the steps involved. To make the process even smoother, Easy Prep offers Indiana CDL practice tests that allow you to practice regularly before your exam. We hope this guide, along with our practice tests, will be a valuable resource on your journey to earning a CDL in Indiana.