How do you get your CDL licence? How old do you have to be?

Question

How do you get your CDL licence? How old do you have to be?

Answer 1

You can get a CDL license at age 18, but you will be limited to running "intrastate".  In other words, you will be restricted to the state you are licensed in until you turn 21.  Like someone else mentioned though, you could have problems even then.

Most trucking companies age requirements are regulated by their insurance carrier, not any rules or regulations.  Most companies have a minimum age of 23 before they will hire you for "interstate" transportation.  I'm not say all of them, but you will find it difficult to get an interstate job at age 21.

Probably the easiest way to get your CDL license would be go to school and take the courses required to pass the tests.  I'm not saying you can't do it on your own, but you would have to have a working knowledge of trucks, both operations wise as well as mechanical knowledge to understand all the things you much know.  It's not like a car where you stick the key in the slot and you are on  your way.  You are required to do a pre-trip inspection of that truck everyday.  You not only have to know what you are checking, but why and what to look for.

Having access to a truck to practice with could be another issue to overcome.  You need to practice with someone who knows what they are doing.  You might as well try to fly a helicopter  with no instruction than to try to drive a truck without any help.

I hope this has helped answer your question...  Good luck with your pursuits....

Answer 2

I have a CDL. I think its 23. There are a variety of companies our there that will help u. they have a training program. usually they require you to work for them for 1 year. Schneider is one, but there are many. Go to a truck stop and get a free magazine with jobs in it. Or you will need to pay for a driving school. good luck

Answer 3

18.  Go to the DMV.  Take a bunch of written tests.  Take a driving test on a vehicle of the class you are applying for.