HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET YOUR CDL? TIMELINE BREAKDOWN

If you’re thinking about starting a trucking career, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: how long does it take to get a CDL? The answer depends on your license type, training format, and your availability—but here’s a general timeline.

Understanding the CDL Process

If you’re starting a trucking career, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: How long does it take to get a CDL?
The short answer: 3 to 8 weeks for most drivers, but your exact timeline will depend on:

• The CDL class you are pursuing (A, B, or C)
• Whether you choose full-time or part-time training
• How quickly you pass your permit and skills tests
• State-specific scheduling availability

Let’s break this down step-by-step so you know exactly what to expect.

STEP 1: STUDY & GET YOUR PERMIT (1–2 weeks)

Start by studying your CDL manual and completing Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) theory. Once you pass the written exam at your DMV, you’ll receive your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). You can complete the required theory training online through ELDT Nation in just a few hours.
👉 Start Class A Theory or Class B Theory

Your CDL journey starts with the Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP).
This stage involves:

1. Studying your CDL manual – Available online or at your DMV.
2. Completing Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) theory – This is federally required and can be done entirely online.
3. Passing the written knowledge test at your local DMV.

Pro Tip: With ELDT Nation’s online theory courses, you can finish this requirement in just a few hours and immediately schedule your CLP exam.

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STEP 2: BEHIND-THE-WHEEL TRAINING (2–6 weeks)

Enroll in a certified CDL school for range and road training. Most full-time programs take 3–5 weeks. Part-time training may take 6–10 weeks.

STEP 3: CDL SKILLS TEST (1–2 days)

After training, you’ll schedule and complete your skills test—this includes a pre-trip inspection, basic controls, and a road test.

This stage covers vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and on-road driving.

TOTAL TIME: 3 TO 8 WEEKS

On average, it takes about 1 to 2 months to get your CDL from start to finish. The faster you complete your theory training and schedule your driving hours, the quicker you’ll be on the road.

Factors That Affect CDL Training Length

When asking “how long does it take to get a CDL,” it’s important to understand that there’s no single answer. Several factors—ranging from the type of license you pursue to your personal schedule—can make your timeline shorter or longer.

License type (Class A vs. Class B vs. endorsements)

The type of CDL you’re aiming for is one of the biggest timeline drivers.

• Class A CDL — This is the most comprehensive license, allowing you to drive tractor-trailers and most commercial vehicles over 26,001 lbs GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating). Because of the broader skill set required, training programs for Class A typically take 4–8 weeks full-time, and sometimes up to 12 weeks part-time.
• Class B CDL — Covers smaller commercial vehicles like straight trucks, box trucks, dump trucks, and certain buses. Training is often faster—1–4 weeks full-time—making it a common choice for those entering box truck delivery, local freight, or passenger transport.
• Endorsements — Adding endorsements such as Passenger (P), Hazardous Materials (H), School Bus (S), or Tanker (N) can extend your training time. These require additional classroom instruction, study time, and separate written or skills exams. For example, adding a Passenger Endorsement for bus driving may add another week to your timeline.

State requirements

CDL licensing is regulated at the federal level by FMCSA, but each state sets its own rules on top of that. This means timelines can vary based on:

• Permit holding periods — Some states require you to hold your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) for a set time (often 14 days) before scheduling your skills test.
• Test appointment availability — In high-demand states, scheduling delays at DMVs or testing centers can stretch timelines by weeks.
• State-specific training mandates — Certain states require extra behind-the-wheel hours or specific coursework beyond FMCSA’s Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements.

Training schedule (full-time vs. part-time)

Your choice between full-time and part-time CDL school will directly affect how quickly you get licensed.

• Full-time programs usually run 5 days per week, 8 hours a day, and can be completed in as little as 3–6 weeks.
• Part-time or weekend programs spread out the same curriculum over evenings and weekends, which may stretch training to 2–3 months or longer.
  If you’re balancing CDL training with an existing job, expect a longer completion window—but the flexibility can make it more manageable.

Student’s availability and readiness

Your own preparation can make or break your CDL timeline. If you study for the CDL permit test before enrolling, you can start your behind-the-wheel training immediately, saving 1–2 weeks. Conversely, failing written or skills tests can set you back—sometimes requiring a wait before retesting. Staying consistent with attendance, studying regularly, and practicing outside of class will help you finish on time.

Ready to begin? ELDT Nation offers FMCSA-approved online courses to jumpstart your CDL process today. Enroll now and fast-track your driving career.