Applying for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in the state of New Jersey involves a number of steps, some preparation, and testing, as well as meeting certain requirements. If you wish to drive trucks, buses, or any other commercial vehicle, here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for your CDL.
Step 1: Determine Your CDL Class and Endorsements
CDLs are classified into three categories: Class A, Class B, and Class C. Class A is for combination vehicles with a weight of 26,001 pounds or greater, GCWR, and a towed vehicle in excess of 10,000 pounds. Class B is for single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or greater, or towing less than 10,000 pounds. Class C covers vehicles that are intended to transport 16 or more people (including the driver) or hazardous materials. You may also need endorsements such as Passenger (P), School Bus (S), Hazardous Materials (H), or Double/Triple Trailers (T), depending on the vehicle you want to drive.
Step 2: Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements
In order to be eligible for a CDL School New Jersey, you have to be 18 years old (21 years old if you are going to drive interstate or haul hazardous materials), possess a valid New Jersey driver’s license, provide evidence of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency, have a clean driving record, and pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination by a qualified medical examiner. Once you’ve finished the physical, you’ll receive a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) that you’ll need to bring with you to the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC).
Step 3: Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
You’ll need a CLP prior to applying for a CDL. To get one, visit your MVC office and present a filled-out CDL Holder Self-Certification Form and identification, age, and residency proof. You’ll also need to present your Medical Examiner’s Certificate. Once you fulfill these requirements, you’ll have to take the written knowledge test(s) for your CDL class and any endorsements you want. The fee for CLP is $125 up to January 2025. Your CLP will be usable for 180 days and can be renewed just once. Within this time frame, you must practice driving with the guidance of a qualified CDL holder.
Step 4: Finish Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
As of February 7, 2022, first-time CDL applicants and applicants for particular endorsements must be trained in Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT). This is classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction that will need to be administered by a Training Provider who is listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Training Provider Registry.
Step 5: Pass the CDL Skills Test
Once you’ve had your CLP for at least 14 days and completed ELDT, you can schedule your CDL skills test with an approved testing site. There are three parts to the test: pre-trip inspection, where you demonstrate comfort with vehicle safety inspections; basic vehicle control, where you perform maneuvers like backing, parking, and turning; and on-road driving, where you demonstrate safe driving habits in a range of traffic conditions. You will need to bring with you a vehicle for the test that is suitable for your CDL class. If you’re taking an endorsement test, the vehicle should meet certain requirements (e.g., school bus for the “S” endorsement).
Step 6: Get Your CDL
After finishing the skills test, return to the Office of Motor Vehicles with your test result. Pay for the CDL, and you will be issued a CDL. The endorsements for which you tested will be noted on your license, as well as restrictions based on vehicle used for testing, i.e., “no manual transmission.”
Additional Considerations
If you would like to get a HazMat endorsement, you will also need to undergo a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check. You can also use an online background check service to review your records before applying. New Jersey CDLs last four years as well and must be renewed before their expiration date. By going through these steps and fulfilling all of the requirements, you’ll be able to obtain your CDL in New Jersey and begin your career as a professional driver.
