Thinking of starting a career in trucking? Here’s a clear step-by-step guide to becoming a truck driver—from your CDL permit to full certification.

Whether you’re pursuing a Class A or Class B license, this guide will walk you through each stage so you can hit the road with confidence.

STEP 1: MEET BASIC REQUIREMENTS

Before you begin CDL training, make sure you qualify:

• Be at least 18 years old (21 for interstate driving)
  
  
• Hold a valid driver’s license
  
  
• Have a clean driving record and no major medical disqualifications
  
  

Check your state’s DMV or Department of Transportation website for any specific residency or medical forms.

STEP 2: GET YOUR CDL PERMIT (CLP)

The first official step is earning your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). To do this:

1. Study your state CDL manual
   
   
2. Take and pass the written knowledge test at your local DMV
   
   
   
   • Covers general knowledge, air brakes, and combination vehicles (for Class A)
     
     
3. Submit required documents and pass a vision test

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👉 Want to pass the permit test on your first try? Start our Class A CDL Theory Course or Class B CDL Theory Course to get FMCSA-compliant training and expert prep.

STEP 3: COMPLETE FMCSA-REQUIRED THEORY TRAINING

Since 2022, all new drivers must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) theory before taking the skills exam.

You can complete this online with ELDT Nation:

• 100% online & self-paced
  
  
• FMCSA-reported upon completion
  
  
• Includes modules on vehicle safety, road rules, inspections, and more

Start with:

• Class A Theory Training for tractor-trailer drivers
  
  
• Class B Theory Training for box trucks, buses, and dump trucks

STEP 4: ENROLL IN A BEHIND-THE-WHEEL TRAINING PROGRAM

Next, you’ll need to complete behind-the-wheel training with a CDL school. This includes:

• Range training: Basic controls, turning, backing up
  
  
• Road training: Real-world driving with an instructor
  
  

Search local CDL schools or use CDL school partnerships to find a training center near you.

STEP 5: PASS THE CDL SKILLS TEST

Once training is complete, schedule your CDL skills exam with your DMV. The test includes:

• Pre-trip inspection: Identify and check vehicle components
  
  
• Basic control test: Demonstrate safe maneuvering (e.g., parallel park)
  
  
• Road test: Prove your ability to drive in real traffic
  
  

Pass all three, and you’ll earn your full CDL!

STEP 6: ADD ENDORSEMENTS (OPTIONAL)

Endorsements allow you to drive specialized vehicles or haul specific cargo. The most common ones are:

• Hazmat (H) – For transporting hazardous materials
  👉 Start our Hazmat Endorsement Course
  
  
• Passenger (P) – For transporting 16+ passengers
  👉 Enroll in the Passenger Endorsement Course
  
  

You’ll need to pass an additional written exam and, in some cases, a TSA background check.

STEP 7: START YOUR TRUCKING CAREER

After receiving your CDL, you can begin applying for jobs! Decide whether you want to:

• Drive locally or over the road
  
  
• Work full-time or part-time
  
  
• Choose freight, fuel, or passenger transport
  
  

Many companies offer sign-on bonuses, tuition reimbursement, and full benefits for new CDL holders.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The process of becoming a truck driver may seem overwhelming, but broken into steps, it’s entirely manageable. With the right preparation and training, you can earn your CDL, gain endorsements, and start a career with strong earning potential and freedom on the road.

🎓 Ready to begin?

• Enroll in Class A CDL Theory
  
  
• Or start Class B CDL Theory

ELDT Nation gives you FMCSA-approved training at your own pace—affordable, accessible, and fully online.

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