How to Get a CDL in Michigan Quickly and Easily

Obtaining a CDL license in Michigan is a structured process designed to meet state and federal safety standards. If you are wondering how to get a CDL in Michigan or what the Michigan CDL requirements are, this guide will walk you through all the steps, from gathering documents, completing training, passing vision and knowledge tests, to scheduling your road skills test. Following these steps ensures you are prepared for a professional career in commercial driving.

What are the requirements for a CDL in Michigan?

What are the requirements for CDL in Michigan?

Before applying for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Michigan, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving and 21 for interstate driving.
• Valid driver’s license: A current Michigan operator’s or chauffeur’s license is required.
• Medical and vision fitness: Applicants must meet federal medical standards, and a DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate may be required.
• Residency and citizenship: You must provide proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence. Certain non-U.S. citizens may need verification through the SAVE program.
• Background check: Applicants must have no recent disqualifying convictions that would prevent them from obtaining a CDL.

How to get a CDL in Michigan?

How to get a CDL in Michigan?

Obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Michigan involves a structured process, which must be followed carefully to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. The following steps provide a comprehensive guide to getting your CDL license in Michigan:

Step 1: Gather required documents

Applicants must provide the following at a Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) office:

• A valid Michigan driver’s license.
• Proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2 form, or payroll stub).
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence, which may include:

Certain immigration documents related to non-U.S. citizens require verification through the federal Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program.

Special rules: Applicants who are citizens of Mexico or Canada are generally ineligible for a non-domiciled CDL unless specific DACA documentation is provided.

Step 2: Complete the CDL certification form (BFS-103)

The applicant must complete Form BFS-103, certifying that they meet federal medical standards required for commercial driving. If any changes in health have occurred since the previous driver’s license renewal, a physician’s statement may be required. A valid DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate may also be necessary, depending on the self-certification category.

Step 3: Pass vision and knowledge tests

To qualify for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), applicants must successfully complete:

• A vision screening to meet minimum eyesight standards.
• CDL written knowledge tests based on the Michigan CDL Manual, covering general rules and applicable endorsements (e.g., passenger, school bus, hazardous materials).

Step 4: Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

Upon passing the knowledge and vision tests and paying the required fees, applicants receive a CLP. The CLP must be held for a minimum of 14 days before scheduling the CDL skills test. During this period, the permit allows supervised practice driving with a licensed CDL holder.

To better prepare for the knowledge test and ensure success, consider using a Michigan CDL practice test to review key concepts and sample questions.

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

Federal regulations require all first-time CDL applicants to complete ELDT with an FMCSA-registered training provider. The training includes classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel practice. The training completion must be uploaded to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before scheduling the skills test.

Step 6: Schedule and complete the CDL skills test

Applicants should contact a state-approved third-party testing organization to schedule the road skills test. The skills test comprises:

1. Pre-trip inspection
2. Basic control skills 
3. On-road driving

Approved testing organizations can be located through Michigan.gov/SOS or by contacting the Michigan Department of State Information Center at 888-767-6424

Step 7: Pay CDL fees

Applicants must pay the required state fees when applying for or updating their CDL at a Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) office. 

Fees are due at the time of application, testing, or endorsement request. Payment methods accepted at SOS offices include cash, check, money order, or major credit/debit cards. Keep your receipt, as it serves as proof of payment.

State Michigan fees associated with obtaining a CDL include:

*Note: $10 applies for an “X” endorsement.

Step 8: Receive the CDL license

Receive the CDL license

After successful completion of the skills test and payment of fees:

• Applicants visit a Michigan SOS office to finalize the application and receive a temporary CDL permit.
• The official photo CDL card is mailed within approximately 30 business days.
• Test results are valid for one year; applicants who do not apply within this period must retake the tests.

Following these steps ensures compliance with Michigan CDL regulations and prepares applicants for a professional career in commercial driving.

FAQs

1. How do I get my CDL in Michigan for free?

You may be eligible for free CDL training through programs like Michigan Works!, which offers financial assistance for job training in high-demand fields, including truck driving. Additionally, veterans can utilize their GI Bill benefits for CDL training at approved institutions. The Michigan State Approving Agency oversees these programs, allowing veterans to use Chapters 30, 33, 35, and 1606 benefits for approved training programs.

2. Can you get a CDL in Michigan without going to school?

No, first-time CDL applicants in Michigan are required to complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) with an FMCSA-approved training provider. Experienced drivers who are upgrading their CDL or adding certain endorsements may have different requirements, but all first-time applicants must complete ELDT before taking the skills test.

3. How to get a class B license in Michigan?

Get a Class B CDL by meeting Michigan’s CDL requirements, passing the vision and knowledge tests, getting a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP), completing any required training, passing the Class B skills test, and paying the fees. It lets you drive single vehicles over 26,001 lbs GVWR.

4. What disqualifies you from getting a CDL in Michigan?

You may be disqualified if you have recent DUI/DWI convictions, serious traffic violations, certain felony convictions, or other offenses that affect safe driving. For a detailed list of Michigan CDL requirements and disqualifications, see our full guide What disqualifies you from getting a CDL in Michigan?

5. How much is it to get a CDL in Michigan?

Getting a CDL in Michigan can cost anywhere from about $3,030 to $7,085, depending on the license type, endorsements, and training program. State fees for a standard CDL start at $25, with endorsements adding $5–$10 each. Training programs, which include classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel practice, typically range from $3,000 to $7,000 depending on the provider. Additional costs may include medical exams, retesting fees, or any optional preparatory courses.

6. Can a felon get a CDL in Michigan?

Eligibility for a CDL in Michigan can be affected by felony convictions. Some serious convictions, especially those related to DUI, drug offenses, or crimes involving a vehicle, may disqualify an applicant. Other convictions may not automatically prevent issuance but could require additional documentation, waiting periods, or review by the Michigan Secretary of State. It’s important for applicants with a criminal record to check their specific situation before applying.

7. How long does it take to get a CDL in Michigan?

It usually takes 3–5 weeks to get a CDL in Michigan with full-time training, but depending on scheduling and tests, it can take 4–8 weeks total. For more details on the timeline, check out our post on: How long does it take to get a CDL in Michigan?

Conclusion

Knowing how to get a CDL in Michigan is essential for anyone pursuing a career in commercial driving. By following all Michigan CDL requirements, completing the required training, passing the knowledge and skills tests, and paying the applicable fees, you can successfully obtain your CDL license. This step-by-step guide simplifies the process and prepares you for a safe and professional driving career. Always check the latest updates on the Michigan website for official information to stay up to date with current regulations.