In this article, we’ll walk you through the full process of becoming a truck driver, answer common questions, and share practical tips that can help you reach your goal faster and with fewer obstacles.
CDL Required Documents Checklist
Here’s a quick checklist of the essential documents you’ll need to legally work as a truck driver in the U.S.:
1. Proof of Identity
Provide one of the following:
- Valid U.S. Passport
- Certified U.S. Birth Certificate and Government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or state ID)
2. Proof of Legal Presence
Provide one of the following:
- U.S. Passport
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
- Valid Visa + I-94 record (if eligible)
3. Social Security Number
Provide one of the following:
- Original Social Security Card
- Official document showing full SSN (W-2, SSA letter)
4. Proof of State Residency
Provide two documents showing your name and current address:
- Utility bill (electric, gas, water)
- Lease agreement or mortgage statement
- Bank statement
- State or federal tax document
- Official government mail
PO Boxes are usually not accepted.
5. Current Driver’s License
- Valid non-CDL driver’s license
- Must not be suspended, revoked, or expired
Most states require 1–2 years of driving history.
6. DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Medical Card)
- DOT Medical Card from an FMCSA-certified examiner
- Form MCSA-5876 (paper or electronic)
⚠️ Expired cards or non-certified examiners are common rejection reasons.
How to Get CDL?
Before you dive into training or testing, it’s important to know that there are different types of CDL licenses, depending on the kind of vehicle you plan to drive.
CDL licenses are divided into classes, based on vehicle size and purpose:
There are three main CDL classes:
- Class A – For heavy trucks with trailers, such as tractor-trailers or long-haul semi-trucks.
- Class B – For large vehicles without trailers, such as straight trucks, dump trucks, and some buses.
- Class C – For smaller commercial vehicles, such as passenger vans or vehicles used to transport hazardous materials (in smaller quantities).
For example, if you only plan to drive small commercial vans or light-duty vehicles, you don’t need a Class A license – a Class C license will be enough to get started.
Once you’ve decided which CDL class you need, the next step is to gather the required documents to apply for the written exam at your local DMV.
After passing the written knowledge test at the DMV, you’ll receive a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). This permit allows you to legally practice driving a truck – but only with a licensed CDL driver in the passenger seat.
Important: You cannot start behind-the-wheel training or enroll in a CDL school’s driving portion without a valid CLP.
So, how exactly does the CDL exam work? What do you need to prepare for?
Let’s break it down step by step. The CDL exam has two main parts: a written knowledge test (theory) and a skills test (practical).
Part 1: The Written Knowledge Test
The first step is proving that you know the rules, procedures, and safety regulations required for professional truck driving. You’ll take a series of multiple-choice tests covering different topics.
The written exam usually includes:
- General Knowledge – covers basic trucking laws, safety, and driving regulations;
- Combination Vehicles – focuses on driving trucks with trailers;
- Air Brakes – required if your truck uses air brake systems (most CDL trucks do).
Tip: Use the CDL Help app to study – it includes real DMV-style questions and is great for first-time test takers.
Once you pass the written tests, you’ll receive your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) and can move on to the driving portion.
Part 2: The Skills Test (Driving Exam)
This is where you prove that you can actually handle a commercial vehicle safely and professionally.
Find a CDL school in our directory
The CDL skills test has three parts:
- Pre-Trip Inspection: You’ll walk around the truck and explain how you check key components for safety – like the brakes, tires, lights, and engine area. This shows you understand how to inspect your vehicle before driving.
- Basic Control Skills Test: You’ll be asked to perform low-speed maneuvers in a controlled area – such as backing up, parking, and turning. This section checks how well you can control the truck and trailer.
- Road Test: You’ll drive on public roads with an examiner, who will evaluate your ability to drive safely in real traffic conditions – obeying signs, shifting gears, merging, turning, etc.
After passing the driving exam, you can finally apply for your official CDL and start your career as a commercial driver in the U.S.
Keep in mind: To pass all parts of the CDL exam, you need to prepare thoroughly and understand every important aspect of truck operation – from safety rules to vehicle control. The most effective way to prepare is by attending a certified CDL training school. In fact, in most states, you won’t even be allowed to take the driving test unless you’ve completed a formal training program.
You’ve made it this far – got your CDL, finished training, and you're ready to start driving. Now comes the most important part: finding your first job as a truck driver.
