How to get a CDL A license

What is a CDL A license? 

Driving a big truck is a big job. It can be a great career for the right person, as a career in truck driving offers steady pay without a college degree. Many drivers work independently, and some have the opportunity to travel throughout the United States. In order to drive big trucks, you need a Commercial Driver’s License Class A (CDL A).

There are also Class B and Class C commercial driver’s licenses. Class B licenses allow you to drive single vehicles, like buses and dump trucks. With Class C licenses, you can drive passenger vans or small hazardous materials trucks.¹

A CDL A is the highest level of commercial driver’s license you can get. It’s the license that gives you the most flexibility, allowing you to drive the largest and most powerful vehicles on the road.

Key takeaways

• Drive big, earn big: A CDL A license lets you operate the largest trucks and unlocks top-paying commercial driving jobs.
• Strong demand: Trucking careers are growing 4% through 2034, with 237,600 new openings each year.
• Quick training: You can earn your CDL A in 4–8 weeks through approved training programs — no college degree needed.
• Affordable options: Tuition ranges from $3,000 to $10,000, with employer sponsorships, grants, and veteran benefits available.
• Career flexibility: Choose local, regional, or long-haul routes, add endorsements, and start earning fast.

What can you do with a Class A CDL? 

With a CDL A, you can operate combination vehicles, like a tractor that pulls a trailer, with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, as long as the trailer you’re towing weighs more than 10,000 pounds. That means you can drive:

• tractor-trailers
• tankers
• livestock haulers
• flatbeds
• heavy farm equipment
• medium-duty pickup trucks with trailers (known as “hot shot loads”)
• some large passenger vehicles

In short, a Class A license qualifies you for nearly every type of commercial driving job out there.¹ Getting your CDL A qualifies you for many opportunities in trucking. You could drive local or long-haul routes. You can work for an established carrier, join a regional fleet, or even buy a truck and start your own business as a truck owner-operator. If you want maximum flexibility in the trucking world, the Class A CDL is the license you need.

Types of commercial driving jobs 

There are three common types of commercial drivers:

• Long-haul (Over-the-Road): These truckers drive cross-country routes, keeping them on the road for days or weeks at a time. They often earn higher pay, and they get to see the United States, but they spend more time away from home.
• Regional: Regional truckers drive shorter routes across a few states, allowing them to get home more often.
• Local: Local truckers drive same-day routes within a specific area. These drivers typically come home every night, but their pay can vary depending on the type of cargo they haul.

The right type of trucking for you depends on your lifestyle, goals, and income needs.

What is the pay for Class A drivers? 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in May 2024, the median annual wage for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers was $57,440. The lowest-paid 10% of drivers earned less than $38,640, while the top 10% earned more than $78,800. Wages can be higher for drivers who take on long-haul routes or haul specialized loads. Some drivers get paid by the mile and can earn bonuses.²

There’s also strong demand for drivers. Employment for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers is expected to grow about 4% from 2024 to 2034, which is as fast as the average for all jobs. Each year, approximately 237,600 openings are projected for drivers.³ That means more opportunities for new truck drivers who are willing to train and hit the road.

What are the requirements for getting a CDL A? 

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets the national standards for Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs). However, state motor vehicle agencies are responsible for administering the federal CDL program. Your state determines its own processes, fees, and renewal procedures. The state motor vehicle office administers the knowledge and skills tests and issues a CDL if you pass.

Before you sign up for any training or testing, make sure you meet your state’s basic qualifications. Some details may vary by state, but these are the federal requirements for a CDL:

1.      Age: You must be at least 18 years old to get a Commercial Driver’s License. However, only people 21 years old and older are able to drive across state lines (interstate). Most higher-paying or long-haul jobs require interstate eligibility.

Some states allow people aged 18 to 20 to drive within state borders, which can be a good way to get started in the trucking industry. If you’re under 21, check with your state motor vehicle department to find out if you can get a CDL to drive within the state.

2.      Driving Record: A safe driving history is essential. States check for major violations, such as DUIs, reckless driving, or leaving the scene of an accident. Too many serious infractions can disqualify you from getting a CDL.

3.      Medical Certification: You’ll need a valid Department of Transportation (DOT) medical certificate. This involves getting a physical exam from a certified medical provider to ensure you can safely operate a commercial vehicle. The exam checks vision, hearing, blood pressure, and other health factors. Most certificates must be renewed every two years.

4.      Legal Residency and Licensing: You’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency, a Social Security number, and a valid non-commercial driver’s license from your state.

5.      Commercial Learner’s Permit: Before earning your CDL A, you must first get a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). The CLP allows you to practice driving commercial vehicles with a licensed instructor or qualified driver. You’ll hold the permit for a required period (often at least 14 days) before you can take your final skills test to earn your CDLA.⁴

What are the CDL Class A tests like? 

Passing your Class A tests takes more than memorizing the rules of the road. You’ll need to conduct some research, receive hands-on training, and pass multiple tests. Here’s how it works:

Step 1: The Knowledge Test

This is the written part of the process, with exams covering topics like:

• General commercial driving laws, safety regulations, and vehicle controls
• Air brakes, including maintenance, components, and functions
• Combination-vehicle operation, including turning, braking, and coupling and uncoupling trailers

Your state’s commercial driver’s handbook will outline exactly what’s covered. You have to pass the knowledge test before you can get your Commercial Learner’s Permit.⁵

Step 2: Behind-the-Wheel Training

Once you have your permit, you’ll start practicing with an instructor. CDL training programs usually include:

• Vehicle control: coupling and uncoupling trailers, shifting, braking, and turning
• Backing and docking: maneuvering safely in tight spaces
• Highway and interstate driving: merging, lane changes, and defensive driving
• Pre-trip inspections: learning to spot and explain potential mechanical issues

Operating a tractor-trailer feels very different from driving a car. You’ll learn how weight, trailer length, and visibility affect how you handle the vehicle. The goal is to ensure you’re a confident and safe driver.

Step 3: The Skills Test

After completing your training, you’ll take a skills test administered by your state motor vehicle department. It usually includes three parts:

1. Pre-trip inspection test – Explain and inspect key components of your truck, including brakes, tires, fluid levels, and lights.
2. Basic control skills – Demonstrate your ability to back up, park, and maneuver the vehicle safely.
3. On-road driving – Drive on public roads and demonstrate safe operation in real traffic.⁶

When you pass, your state will issue your official CDL A license.

What are CDL endorsements? 

CDL endorsements are extra certifications you can add to your commercial license that prove you’re qualified to handle specialized types of vehicles or cargo. Each endorsement requires its own written test — and in some cases, a driving test — to show you have the right training and understand the safety rules for that type of work.

Common endorsements include T (double or triple trailers), N (tank vehicles), H (hazardous materials), and P (passenger vehicles). Adding endorsements can expand your job options and earning potential, since some employers look for drivers who are able to handle a variety of loads. Once you have your Class A license, you can determine if you want to earn any endorsements, then study and take the appropriate tests.⁷

How to get your CDL A 

The steps to getting your Class A commercial driver’s license are:

1.      Get your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).

2.      Attend a CDL A driver training program.

3.      Pass the Class A skills test.

4.      Get your Class A license.

Even if you have experience driving large vehicles, federal rules require new commercial drivers to have special training before they can earn a Class A license. You’ll need to complete an Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) program from a provider listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.

ELDT programs may be full-time, lasting 4 to 8 weeks, or part-time. Many part-time programs are held on weekends or evenings, which allows you to continue working while you study and prepare for your exams.

Cost and financial help 

You can find ELDT programs at some community colleges, through private truck driving schools, and through some trucking companies. Ensure that the training program is registered in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry.

Tuition can range from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on your location and the length of the program. Please note that, in addition to tuition, some schools may also charge extra fees for lodging, books, materials, and equipment. Be sure to know the full costs of your ELDT program before enrolling.

There are several ways to potentially save on tuition:

• Employer-sponsored programs: Some trucking companies pay for training if you agree to work for them afterward. This can be a smart way to start, although it comes with a work commitment that typically lasts six to 12 months.
• Workforce grants and scholarships: Federal or state grants may be available. Some schools and organizations offer scholarships. Apply for any grants or scholarships you think you may be eligible for.
• Veterans’ benefits: Veterans may be eligible to use education benefits to cover tuition and other educational expenses.
• Financing plans: Many schools offer payment plans or financing options to spread out the costs.⁸

How to choose a truck driving school 

When comparing schools, ask these questions:

• What’s the first-time pass rate for the CDL A test?
• How many hours of behind-the-wheel training are included?
• What types of trucks do students train on?
• Does the school help with job placement after graduation?

Look for a program with a high first-time pass rate, a high number of behind-the-wheel training hours, and training on the types of trucks you want to drive. Job placement is also helpful!

Frequently asked questions

Can I transfer my CDL A to another state? 

Yes. CDLs are recognized nationwide. However, you do need to have a license for the state in which you live, just like any driver. If you move to a new state, you’ll need to apply for a new license, show your current CDL A, and possibly take a short vision or knowledge test.

How much home time do truck drivers get? 

It depends on the job. Long-haul drivers may spend one to three weeks at a time on the road, while regional drivers often get weekends off. Local drivers are typically home daily. When applying for jobs, always ask employers what “home time” to expect.

What happens if I get a violation after getting my CDL A? 

Your CDL A can be suspended for major violations, such as reckless driving or driving under the influence. Employers review driving records regularly. Staying safe and following regulations protects your job and your license.

Next steps: how to get started as a Class A commercial driver 

If trucking sounds like the right career for you, here’s how to start:

1. Check your state’s requirements. Visit your state’s motor vehicle office website to confirm your eligibility for a CDL.
2. Study for the knowledge test. Download your state’s commercial driver handbook and review key sections before taking the Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) exam.
3. Choose a training program. Find Entry-Level Driver Training programs at the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. Compare programs, ask questions about pass rates, and research tuition, grants, scholarships, and employer reimbursement opportunities before selecting a school.
4. Begin training. Once you have obtained your CLP and chosen your training program, begin the ELDT.
5. Schedule your skills test. When you’ve completed your training and you’re confident in your driving, take your state’s required skills tests.
6. Receive your CDL A. When you pass, you’ll get your Class A license and be ready to start applying for jobs.

If you plan ahead and stay consistent, you can go from learner’s permit to licensed commercial driver in just a couple of months!

Getting your CDL A license is a big step — and it’s one that thousands of people take every year to build better lives for themselves and their families. Trucking offers independence, job security, and the chance to earn a good living without a college degree. Whether you dream of driving cross-country or just want reliable local work, your CDL A is the key to getting started.  

Sources:

¹https://www.dat.com/resources/differences-between-cdl-vs-non-cdl-licenses

²https://www.bls.gov/ooh/transportation-and-material-moving/heavy-and-tractor-trailer-truck-drivers.htm#tab-5

³https://www.bls.gov/ooh/transportation-and-material-moving/heavy-and-tractor-trailer-truck-drivers.htm#tab-6

⁴https://driving-tests.org/cdl-requirements/

⁵https://www.roehl.jobs/blog/2024/what-how-to-study-cdl-permit

⁶https://www.primeinc.com/trucking-blogs/cdl-test-prep/

⁷https://www.indeed.com/hire/c/info/cdl-endorsements

⁸https://cdltruck.com/the-real-cost-of-cdl-training-what-youll-pay-and-what-youll-get/